[Vwdiesel] lister advice, tdi vs. audi 5000

[Chris Jude]

So I've got a dilemna here, and wanted to hear some list advice.
I'm looking at putting about $2,000 into the old audi diesel with a new
engine and rebuilding the clutch.  My other option is to go up a couple
generations to either a 1997-98 TDI or a 2001-2002 TDI.  That's about a $10K
purchase, and would get me on a car payment.
I'm really wanting to 'recycle' the audi and keep it going, but I'm nervous
about putting that sort of investment into such an old car.  And then, i'm a
little wary of the newer TDI's, which i'm not that familiar with, and may or
may not be able to do much of the maintenance.
Is there a 'best' TDI to own?  better years than others?
I don't know, we've been discussing this for a couple weeks, and just can't
make a decision.  Except that we want a reliable diesel...

chris
seattle, wa