Would I be downgrading if.....?

[HalJordan]

I picked up a 2002 mk3.3 that was in an accident. Im going to need a new nose(hood,ds fender, bumper and reinforcement,radiator and support,grill and headlights) i was thinking of replacing the nose with a 98-99 Jetta nose as opposed to getting the cabrio mk3.3 parts. It kinda makes it a bit more custom as well as ill probably save a few bucks getting specific mk3.3 parts. Is it frowned upon to replace 2002 parts with older mk3 parts? As much as I like it ,id like to take resale into consideration as well. Woud you pay less for an 02 with 99 parts even though its somewhat custom?
I wouldnt use the mk3 factory bumper either,it would probably be shaved or something aftermarket... any input...thanks!

[CajunSpike]

Yours is the only opinion that matters...

No idea if the parts would swap between the years without mods.
Last I read, it was a mk 3.5...instead of a 3.3.....just fyi.

[Dinobeavis]

This has definitely been done, at least on the MKIII. I personally LIKE the look, but I'm not a fan of the original Cabrio front end. Not sure if it's bolt and go.....probably a write up somewhere around here...

Be sure to post some pics

[Blk95VR6]

Both noses will interchange with both bodystyles (MK III to 3.5 and vice versa), but if you're considering resale value then go back with 3.5 parts. Not only will it be correct but the body lines will not be off from front to rear. Again, your opinion is the only one that matters, but since you asked...


Mike

[jettaglisteve]

Can be done... N has been done... You still need cabrio fenders tho, n the rear bumper throws it off then, IMO...

[HalJordan]

Thanks guys. Think I will go the Jetta route...although it was to my understanding that all parts were simply :bolt on" and needed no real modifications. I was just going to pick up a whole jetta nose..

[Golf Cabrio 3.5]

You'll need all these fenders, hood, radiator support, headlights, grille, bumper and bumper cover to make the change.It's a shame imo,you can find a lot of MK3.5 in junk yards so you can remove the parts you need...

[csrgti]

You'll need the fenders from a MK3 cabrio as they are different where they meet up with the rocker panel.
They'll match up fine with jetta or golf headlights and hood.
Honestly I think it'll look like a hack job because your rear bumper wont match and you'll need some serios body work to match up a MK3 rear bumper to the body lines of a 3.5

[Golf Cabrio 3.5]

This is the opposite from what you're trying to achieve,MK3.5 front and MK3 rear