Ok, so basically I'm shopping for a 2002-2003 volkwagen Jetta! I'm looking at a couple different models. The 1.8T, The VR6, and The GLI. Suggestion/Comments?

Also Whats the differences between the MK series? I've Never understood what an MK4 is or mk300? I have no clue! somebody fill me in!

MK1 is 19XX - 19XY
MK2 is 19XY - 1993
MK3 is 1994 - 1998
MK4 is 1999 - 2004
MK5 is 2005 - present

what you are looking for is an MK4

check out GenerationDub.com

Lots of guys there can know VW's specifically!

I've owned 2 MK3s and never had any problems. I have heard they tend to have wiring/electrical problems.

Also, Look at the TDIs lol, bigger turbo, injectors, etc run with VR's all day

The GLI is a trim level... Some years of it are 1.8T's, others are 24v VR6's.

For power, here's what the engines make stock:
12v VR6 -> ~175hp
1.8T(after 2001.5) -> 180hp
24v VR6 -> 200hp.

I think the earliest year for the 24V VR6's is 2003, but it *might* be 2004.

Since the 1.8T is turbo, it requires premium fuel, but I think the 24V VR's do as well. If you have the ecu chipped you might gain a couple hp on the VR6's, but you'll see substantial gains on the 1.8T(running more boost adds LOTS more power).

If you're going to leave it stock and don't mind lower gas mileage, get a 24V VR6. If you plan to chip it(its easy on VW's, its simply a reflash through the OBD port) then get a 1.8T.

The later GLI's are fantastic looking cars 100% stock, that would be my suggestion, but might be out of your budget?

This is a 2005 GLI, 100% stock:






To elaborate on what Adam said..

MKI = 1976 - 1984(I think they started in 76, could be wrong)
MKII = 1985 - 1992
MKIII = 1993 - 1999.5
MKIV = 1999.5 - 2005.
MKV = 2006 - 2009 probably.

Hey guys thanks for the help!

So as for as I know, the difference between the vr6 and the GLI is also 5spd vs 6spd. Another thing is after 2002 is when the 1.8T and the 2.8 6cyl Jump in horsepower. in 2002 the 1.8T went from only 150HP to a nice 180HP! aswell starting in 2002 the 2.8L-6cyl went from roughly 175HP to 200HP.

Im very much attracted to the 2.8L engine because of the mean sound the exhuast makes, but its a rarer car to come by.

As for the electrical issues. Ya its a fact that VW's are bad for that. and Im prepared to take that challenge on. its funny cause 90% of all jettas on the road have atleast one burnt out exterior light hahaha. Usually one of the bulbs in the tail lights.

The 04 GLI is a beautiful car. But a bit to flashy for me. and that would be an issue for me cause I don't want to leave it stock. Aswell the vr6's do also need premium fuel.

12v VR6's do not require premium fuel from what I've seen... 24v ones might(the 200hp ones).

All cars with the 24v VR6 should be 6 speeds as well..

VR's have an amazing exhaust note, but they're thirstier engines. A chipped 1.8T will make a good chunk more power than a 24v VR6 and get better mileage. It won't sound nearly as nice though.

True True! Top Gear rules by the way.

My friend kevin from work has an 04 GLI with the 24v VR6, He is on his second engine with only 65,000 km on the car. the used replacement engine total bill was close to $9000. Food for thought, also a friend of mine who works at autobahn motors (german car repair garage) in london reccomended the 1.8t over the VR6 due to less issues.

I'm sure if he see's this thread on here and is still a user, he will give you a better idea on the cars known issues and whatnot.

That is insane! I would figure something with a turbo on would be more problematic. Alot of people have been telling me to do the 1.8t aswell. supposidely, when they are chipped they can smoke a vr6

its all really up to you, do you want a VR6 for the killer exhaust note but huge fuel bills at the end of the month or do you want 1.8T power with a sub decent sound spooling turbo stock with a more affordable fuel mileage?

my buddy has a 98 GTi VR6 12v and spends a good 1/4 of his monthly paychecks for gas alone, and thats with pumping 89 over the recommended 87

A chipped 1.8T with downpipe, full exhaust on the stock turbo will make upwards of 200whp. A stock 12v VR6 will make about 150whp, and the 24v VR6's make about 175whp.

So yes, chipped 1.8T will beat the VR's(excluding the 3.2L from an R32 or Audi TT).

As for running 89 over 87, that won't increase mileage at all... It will actually drop it slightly. Driven normally, the VR should get 450km's to a tank mixed city/highway.. If he's getting much less than that its either running poorly, and he has a very heavy right foot.

Originally Posted by neonSRT

A chipped 1.8T with downpipe, full exhaust on the stock turbo will make upwards of 200whp. A stock 12v VR6 will make about 150whp, and the 24v VR6's make about 175whp.

So yes, chipped 1.8T will beat the VR's(excluding the 3.2L from an R32 or Audi TT).

As for running 89 over 87, that won't increase mileage at all... It will actually drop it slightly. Driven normally, the VR should get 450km's to a tank mixed city/highway.. If he's getting much less than that its either running poorly, and he has a very heavy right foot.

how is the 2.8 v5 you think? sorry to be off topic. jus wondering

^^ You mean the 2.5L in the MKV rabbit's and jetta's??

They're not GREAT on gas, but they're not terrible either. My roommate has a 2008 Rabbit(170hp version of the 2.5L), and its got decent power. Personally I'd go for the 2.0T since its more powerful, and gets better mileage(gotta love direct injection).

Originally Posted by neonSRT

^^ You mean the 2.5L in the MKV rabbit's and jetta's??

They're not GREAT on gas, but they're not terrible either. My roommate has a 2008 Rabbit(170hp version of the 2.5L), and its got decent power. Personally I'd go for the 2.0T since its more powerful, and gets better mileage(gotta love direct injection).

I meant the 2.8 v5 from the B5 Audi and Passat.

^^ the 2.8L in the A4/Passat is a V6...