Well after using a mk1 TT selector to drastically shorten the throw of my last cars gearchange - (an 02S 6 speed - same as 02J 5 speed really) - I was keen to exploit an OEM solution for my newly acquired mk5.
Thanks to Alex and BDM for helping me out with the part number - I ordered the selector from TPS - cost me about £22.
When I took my mk5 gti one off I could barely tell a difference between the two....not a good sign! I think there must be 10mm max difference in the centres.
On fitting to be quite honest I can barely tell any difference in the throw of the gear stick
The mk1 item on the previous generation box made a huge difference....
So my ten peneth is not to bother with this modification!
I may look further into this....some of the 6 speeders (ie like my old O2S) had a mirror image of what the mk5 is like - so the keyway on the splines of the gearbox selector are 180degrees out. I wander if I use the relevant 'relay lever' from the older style boxes I may be able to use the mk1TT short shift lever.