First year for the 80/90?

[Brian Roth]

When did they first start making the 80/90? I'm the guy who wants to put a 4
cyl diesel in one and I've been told that I need to start with an 80/90
trans because the 4000q 5 cyl trans are incompatible with 4 cyl engines. I
want to know what year to look for. What is a decent price to pay for one
with a bad or tired engine. How would an 80/90 transaxle go in a 4000q?

I've go a line on a 1990?   90q (I think, leather seats but I did not look
at the badge) that took a hit in the trunk. It runs great, has 150K, comes
with parts, the leather is in great shape. The guy will give me a 1995?  TDI
Passat motor changeover and the car for 3K.