fuel filter

I have a 1989 vw golf gti cabrio with what I think is a DX engine in the car.
my car was fitted with a WK83 fuel filter which was due replacement, and when I purchased an aftermarket replacement fuel filter I received a Bosch F5021 which fits the pipework, but is only half the size/dimensions of the previous one.
Will the replacement filter be ok, or will the performance and running be adversely affected, and should I go for a like-for-like replacement.
many thanks in advance.
Jim.

Bosch filters have been cost reduced, at least over here on this side of the pond…quite a few folks running 10W40 dino oil reported the flickering light at idle.

Ones that I have used on my 1.8
Mann
Mahl
STP
Mobile1
WIX
Genuine VW
Pureolator Gold

Never had a flickering light on mine.

Boo on Fram, Store Branded, Generic, and Bosch.
just my two pence.

Think the fuel filters changed around 1984 when the MK2 Golf was launched. MK1 based Cabrios moved to using MK2 style filters which as you say are twice as fat as the original 1979/84 MK1 versions.

Suppliers get confused because the Cabrio is a MK1 in the era of the MK2 and some MK2 parts were used on the MK1 Cabrio/Caddy…

Should work OK if it fits OK in the bracketery

This is my Feb 1984 registered filter on the Cabby as a date guide. 

many thanks for both who replied to my question.
the filter fits in the fuel line ok, and fits in the cradle with no issues and the car does run so i will use it until the next service and then fit a large filter next time round.
many thanks again.
Jim.