IMO I think vw has made just the right suttle changes to identify the ed30 from the standard gti. What you have to remember is its still only a gti. It maybe over priced, but would you still like to pay more for the same car. if so try buy an A3. Firstly is the alloys you say your car parked next to the ed30 looks much better, well I'm afread thats only a matter of opinion. Standard gti only get 17" monza wheels not 18" which means they were an extra, which imo If possible I woiuld of chosen the ed 30 wheels anyway,
which I think look far better and seperate the ed 30 from the standard gti. If you look at the euro spec ed 30 the gets the monza wheels painted black, now come on thats naff, the ed 30 uk spec wheel take you back to the early 80's which the ed 30 is supposed to be copying as with the tartan seats, there just enough difference to sepatate it from the standard gti and still look old skool. Then theres the power I think the extra premium is worth it for the extra power yes you could get a standard gti mapped/tunned for alot less but would you still have your warrenty? An extra 30ps over the standard gti has unlimited bragging rights down the pub. Then theres the limited numbers which makes it fell that wee bit special.
At the end of the day you's that have standard gti's think your getting your pants pulled down over the price. But as with any special edition it comes with a premium and a premuim that some people are prepared to pay to be exclusive.