I'd get a used tranny from Erie Vovo, as mentioned above you may be out 2k for a swap. If you do this make sure the B4 upgrade happens before installation, and then seek a software update from the dealer. You can usually get this free if you opt in for the "regularly scheduled maintenance" (oil change). As a fellow New Englander, I needn't tell you how bad the roads are and how fast a "new car" can go awry.

If you sink 3k in this car you can look at it like this: 8 or so car payments while keeping minimal insurance, on a car that will continue to run without really owing you too much once you get past those "8 payments"...

All the best,
steve