The changes were pretty radical. The change was one of those kinda odd
ones in the industry where they kept most of the internal engine parts
(crank, rods, pistons, etc.) almost unchanged, but encased them in an
ENTIRELY new block. The later engine is an aluminum block, the older one
iron. IIRC, the heads will phyically interchange, but not functionally
because the bosses for fuel rails, injectors, etc. are different. The
process for removing the heads is the same in general, but very
different in detail (the later engine has a completely different intake
plenum, different fuel injectors, different ignition system- and all
those have to be removed).

Most importantly- the torque specifications may be very different
because on the later engine you're clamping an aluminum head to an
aluminum block, and on the early one the block is cast iron. The head
bolts thread into the block, so that is a very critical spec.

I would get the correct manual.

First, let me thank you for the answers, I am now in the process of getting
the correct manual for my 96 Eagle Vision TSI and its 3.5L Engine.

Secondly, as they say in football, "apon further review" it was not the head
gasket that was causing my coolent problems. It was a bad Thermostat (the
3ed in 5 years), combined with a weak radiator cap, that was the blame for
it all.

After they were replaced, and a deep flush and fill, the Vison is now a
"sight to behold." LOL

However, as with any 13 model year old car there are still some issues.

But that's for another post.

Again, thanks.