Some lacked power brakes, which you need. Later models had slightly better front brakes. Dash tended to crack badly. Gauge placement is lower, not as ideal. Better front brakes than early models.
Dash looks nicer and holds up better over time.
Gauge placement is higher and better to read. On the down side, the headliner tended to break down and sag, needing replacement. You will be adding 800 lbs. Most Rabbits came with power brakes. If you find a donor that's otherwise really great but does not have power brakes, you can get a power brake setup from a salvage yard and install it.