The center stack changed a bit in 2002...
- 1999-2001 did not have the thin, horizontal, cupholder and had a multi-piece surround instead of the horseshoe. Some had a cupholder that took up as much space as the hvac controller.
- 2002-2004 had the one piece horseshoe. The hvac and stock radio just butted up against each other each with their own trim bezel, but the piece behind the horseshoe (Support frame, #996.552.231.13 01C) does have a center bar. The bar actually is useful as it supports the back of the ipad.
On my installation, I used the standard 2002+ horseshoe. No double din kit or any aftermarket parts. It was a non-nav car with the hvac control in the upper position and the radio in the lower position. In matte black, the horseshoe is part #996.552.233.06 A03 (about $66 online).
The install would definitely be a bit different in 1999-2001's. It might be easier, or not. You also might be able to install a 2002+ center stack components into a 1999-2001 and duplicate my install (looks like support, bezel, and vent at a minimum). The nature of these DIY projects is that it definitely isn't plug-and-play, but thats also why it is fun to tackle!
Here's what it looks like with the center stack and lower front stack mostly disassembled on a 2002+
And another finished shot, ignition off:
ignition on:
