I have a 2005 Passat GLS wagon that was converted to 5-speed manual by Keith Harley at KMH Motors. In addition to the manual conversion, we upgraded the springs to Euro-only "rough road", and added Bilstein HD shocks. Timing belt was just done.
I just bought a new Alltrack (manual) and sadly must part with this old friend.
Mileage is around 230K, front fenders were replaced by VW, there is very little rust and only surface on scratches or chips, nothing structural. Paint is dark metallic blue and seats are gray leather. I also replaced the cloudy headlights with new Hella units.
The car is a joy to drive and really looks sharp with the "rough road" lift.