97 jetta automatic vs 96 jetta standard
 

I have a chance to buy a 97 jetta in really good shape (minus the 2.0l engine and auto transmission). I would like to know what is involved in taking my 2.0l engine and 5spd manual transmission out of my 96 and putting it into the 97. I know that there will be some changing of linkage and clutch pedal and cable. Is there any other things I should be aware of? What about the computer? Would it be looking for an automatic transmission?

There would be quite a bit of work involved. You would have to take the ecu from the donor car and if the new car has options the old one didn't, you would have to have them programmed. You also would have to replace the axles and maybe some front suspension parts. I'm sure there would be other various things to change.