i'm currently looking to buy an 80's vw under $1500. and i've been thinking pretty seriously about a specific diesel rabbit (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2446226225#ebayphotohosting)
but i've also been thinking about looking a bit longer for a convertable.
if anyone could kinda brief me on how the diesel rabbit runs versus the petrol one i'd appreciate it. i've also heard the convertables can be a pain in the ass when it rains (and i live in seattle)
any input would be greatly appreciated
thanks.

get whatever strikes your fancy...
the deisels tend to last longer and run better. not the fastest cars. they are actually slow as hell. oh but wait, what is this?, "I can screw the MVA.. hmm tell me more" Well you see, deisel cars are emissions exempt. Meening they do not have to go through or pass emissions. If you are in a state where you only get your car inspected once when you buy it and that is all, unlike virginia where you get inspected every year, you can take that engine out after inspection. drop in whatever the hell you want and run it hard. you now have a bad ass car that never has to see an emissions center or inspector ever again. hmmm BONUS?

yes convertibles suck ass in the rain. all over your lap and wet seat. you have to replace the top, or fix the cracks. convertibles when they were built new were always and are always meant to have to be replaced some day down the road. regular maintence when you own one. don't think of it as damn i just bought a used car and have to replace it already. think of it as i got a nice car real cheap and didn't have to pay full price long ago, and now i just need to put a new top on and i am better off than the guy before who paid full price, sold it to me cheap, and now look at me. leak free...