What are the differences I know about the displacement but can anyone get specific about why I would prefer a 02+ more then a cheaper 99-01

 

headlight, bumper... entire front is different. some interior changes, engine displacement, increase hp, less problem & better value... easier mod! that's about it.

 

Don't forget suspension...

 

I disagree with the less problem statement.. I have a 99 that has had very few problems compared to some 03 and newer... Every car is different.. ask Robyn shes on engine #2 and tranny #2 on her 03 Coupe.. Also the 99 is drive by throttle VS 00-04 are all drive by wire.. I actually prefer the drive by wire, only because throttle response is exact, when I hop in my friends 00 Cab, I can feel the delay. Don't get me wrong I'd take a 04 TT any day.. but don't shy away from a clean 99-01 because of headlights or a 30 HP difference..

 

There is a long list of changes, do a search, it's be covered many times. Some of them are:

More HP
More Torque <= more noticable than the hp imo
25%/40% reduction in lift front/rear
Chassis is 25% stiffer
Lighter wheels (if the car has the 18" 02+ wheels)
matt black switchgear in the interior
bose stereo

I had an 00 and now have an 02. I had a few more minor problems with the 00 (rattles, etc) but both cars have eaten one transmission. Personally, I like the 02 much better due to the torque, it's more flexable for around town driving imo...

Roy

 

What do you mean by Chassis 25% stiffer? Is that something that can be achieved simply by sways? And lift only has to do with the suspension as well, right? I hope the answers are yes (new '99 owner) :-D

 

The chassis is reinforced and is stiffer than the pre 02 chassis. This results in less flex in the chassis itself while cornering etc. The only thing I noticed is that my 02 cab creaked less than my 00 when going over a curb

The lift issue is the result of the redsigned nose and rear bumper. The aerodynamics of those new parts, along with some undertray changes, result in less "lift" a high speeds.

I really don't think you could "feel" these differences in day to day driving on the street. The biggest plus of the 02 cars imo is the added torque, bose, and the xenons (my old car did not have them).

Roy

 

From the '02 sales brochure - "...reinforcements in the body structure have resulted in a 25% increase in torsional rigidity for crisper response and enhanced agility."

 

don't forget bose, a glove box, and a glass rear window on the cab.

 

No problems with my 99.