Hello,

Thank You for choosing Just Answer for your query. I will try to help you to the best of my abilities.

Wow! That's a great story. Let's look at the numbers. To establish the monetary worth I plugged in a 2002 Jetta GLI 16v with 200k miles, in excellent condition, Here is the Excellent condition discription;

• Looks new and is in excellent mechanical condition
• Has never had any paint touch-ups and/or bodywork
• Does not need reconditioning
• The engine compartment is clean and free of leaks
• Is free of rust
• The body and interior are free of wear or visible defects
• Wheels are flawless
• All tires match and are like new
• Has a clean title history and will pass a safety and smog inspection
• Has complete and verifiable service records

The retail value,what you would expect to pay at a dealer, this is the highest price you would expect to pay for a newer, supposedly better Jetta, was $2,250.

Now let's estimate the costs. A ballpark guess for "(rebuilt engine, transmission, body and interior etc.)" Could easily be 5 to $6,000, likely much higher. It will likely never be a collector's item. It was a mass produced car, didn't have any unique innovations.

If you really wanted this year model car, with a bit of searching you could likely find a low mileage replacement for considerably less money, time, and effort. So monetarily speaking the number's don't pan out to restore your beloved "Elain".

Now for the tough part... What's she worth to you? Personal attachment is something only you can put a value on, so you'll have to figure that one out on your own. But figure a conservative estimate would be $10,000. You could likely buy a really nice used car for $10,000, and a sweet low mileage Jetta for considerably less than half that amount.

It's a decision only you can make. I hope I have helped give you make that decision. If there is anything else I can do to assist you, let me know.

I hope I have answered your questions and addressed your concerns. Should you have further questions on this matter, please do not hesitate to ask. I want you to be 100% satisfied with my answer.

Positive feedback, referrals and bonuses are always APPRECIATED. If you accept my answer, please don’t forget to leave feedback.

Thank You!
Jake “The VW Doctor”