... by 2 inches.
Find any Audi 4000 car (sedan or hatch) and pull out the shifter. Then, using your shift lever as a guide, make the appropriate bends.
I used a spare wheel (that wouldn't be a problem if it got minor scrapes on) and slid the lever through to the appropriate point and then carefully bent. When you are done, you can compare with your old lever to make sure it will work properly.
Best of all, it only takes a little time and it's still threaded. And yes, I put my Kamei golf ball on.
Mine sits very low in my Mk1 Jetta. I like it.