[aigel]

I have fond memories of a 90s GTD back in Europe. But then I had a 93 VR6 Passat that I called "The Pa****" that really made me change my mind about VW. And then there is a lot of chatter that I picked up over the years confirming my impression. "Great cars, if you get the warranty" isn't going to fly for me, as I am a consumer that starts driving cars when they are over the 100k mile mark ...

I am looking at getting a gas saver daily driver, so the VW Golf diesel has come back in my mind. Are the newer models, say 2000 or newer any good? I would like a stick shift, so the infamous auto transmissions' issues won't bother me.

What year displacement is the best Golf (for engine)?
What year do these start to have side airbags (safety features are one reason not go go back to the old models).

Am I delusional thinking any new TDI / diesel VW will be even close to the good old GTD?

If the new ones are out, what year classic GTD would you recommend I hunt down (I am open to something from the 90s, if it is the only route to a reliable car that's serviceable).

Thanks!

George