Anthony, congratulations on the purchase! I'm assuming you knew the car didn't have a tach before you bought it. Don't worry you'll get used to it. I was the same way... must have tach and that's why I initially avoided 240D's and early 300D's. I've had my 240D for 6 months and no regrets.

I usually upshift about 10 mph below the dots. As you get used to the car you won't even need the dots, you can just shift by the sound, but I still like to watch the dots because I'm anal. The most important thing is that you don't overrev the engine on a downshift. Yes it's a good idea to match revs both on downshifts and upshifts, it preserves the clutch and transmission. No need to double clutch IMO. You'll know when you've matched the revs by the sound and feel of it.

I'd replace the thermostat. The needle shouldn't be getting below 80 once the engine is warmed up unless you live in the Arctic. Also lift the floormats and check for rust. Another common rust area is the area around the hood hinges.

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2004 VW Jetta TDI (manual)

Past MB's: '96 E300D, '83 240D, '82 300D, '87 300D, '87 420SEL