He's not exactly "Young Link" in Zelda 2 either. The game takes place several years after the first game (he's 16 or 17, I believe). 
Anyhow, yes, I agree with you. I think young Link is best, although a lot of that artwork doesn't do the character justice IMO. The Wind Waker/Minish Cap/DS games look is what I prefer (OoT looks good too).
I don't mind the older Link though, as long as he doesn't look too feminine (Hyrule Warriors) and as long as he wears pants instead of tights, lol.







