RPK,
The short answer to the question about the convertible - YES it is a Mark III.
Mine is a '03 model, and there have been some changes made prior to my delivery. Most notably, the drop foot box, don't know exactly what year they made the change. Do you know the SPF number of the car, with that info some others here can fill you in with some of the info you are looking for. Private sale, original owner, or sale thru a dealer? The owner should be able to tell you everything you want to know.
TL
