I play random in multiplayer most of the time -- it's always interesting to see who I'll roll.
I actually have Civ IV installed but haven't gotten around to playing it at all. I probably should at some point, as FDR is playable and he's probably the president I'd want to play as the most next to Andrew Jackson.
Polynesia is actually one of my favorite civs, as they are really unique, but I generally feel they are a bit on the weak side in multiplayer -- Egypt, however, is awesome no matter where I play them. >: D
Have you run into any civs in BNW so far you are really liking?