MK1 Front Strut Assembly Trivia

[rhlahey at peoplepc.com (rob lahey)]

Hiya Listers!
Why did VW modify the front strut assembly from 79 to 80 models?
(the top & bottom spring perch's - in 80 models, the top hat was shrunk while
bottom was made deeper)

Was there a safety issue?
Or was availability of parts?

I have an 81 strut assembly (with the smaller top hat, deeper bottom perch) and
was wondering if I could swap to an 79 assembly (larger top hat, shallow bottom
perch) or maybe - mix & match for best of both worlds to take advantage of this
Nuespeed Sport Spring blow-out sale;

looky hyere!
http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1379516

Thanks for your valued inputs!
Rob