Re: If I buy a 2001 gti for 15k...am I an idiot for not buying a ... (dayjayvw)
well since I have considered the same, here is my opinion:
the 2002 have:
better seats (absolutely)
worse radio (in my opinion)
more HP (doesn't matter too much if you go with good mods)
nearly worthless extra warranty (if you plan to mod)
different colors available (if it matters)
better stock wheels (if it matters)
it is new and you are the first owner
less leeway for haggling price
bilstein shocks may not fit properly
the 2001:
don't have to pay for depreciation
lower monthly payment = more money for mods
lower car insurance
condition is questionable have it checked thoroughly
have to buy VW extended warranty (in case non-modded parts fail)
worse seats
better radio
different color choices (if it matters)
not the first owner, not new
better ability to haggle on price
bottom line....some things about the 2002 are better and some are not...which are the things that are most important to you? Saving money is always a good option in my book, but if you are dead set on indigo blue then you have to go with 2002....(for example)
there are some running changes that may be an issue as well: extra side curtain air bags, grippier cup holders, loss of rear cupholder(?), 2002 mods are not 100% finalized and available yet, hope that the 2002 has accounted for certain "known" defects, i.e. window regulator, gear grind, MAF etc.
make a list of all pros and cons, then make a list of what is most important to you and think long and hard