B5.5 TDI SE or Sport. Which to get ?

[vim147]

Looking around for a passat 2002> Ideally want a 1.9 TDI sport but keep hearing about costly gearbox problems.

So perhaps thinking of going for a SE 5 speed box as there is more selection around but i do like the spec of Sport.

Should i play safe and going for SE and adding sport wheels, steering wheel and sport cloth seats ? (not keen on SE velour seats)

Or is Sport 6 Speed box not as bad as people make out ?

Budget is £2500 <120k FSH mileage.

Am assuming i get can get Sport wheels, Sport steering wheel & seats for all under £400 ? then selling off my parts for £150 ?

This sound like a good idea ? also how do i go round lowering it so its same as the sport model ? or do i just put on so 17-18" wheels ??