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I have an 89 Jetta, and it runs great, when it runs.  However, when it overheats it vapor locks, dies, then the battery or electrial system goes out, or is it the fuel system?  

Does any body know what it could be; I bought a new battery, replaced the spark plugs, and rotor.  It just doesn't turn over?  It sound like the starter, or iginition coil, or ignition cell module?  I don't know do you know what it may be with this 89 VW Jetta?  

You are probably not still wondering about this, but I am not busy right now, so here goes.

How do you know it is overheating? (So you say it has steam coming out from under the hood.) Ok, you got to fix that first.

What do you mean "It just won't turn over" Do you mean it doesn't crank, you know, spin over with the starter?

What do you mean it "Sounds like the starter. ignition coil, ignition cell module (what is that anyway?).

If you respond to any of this, I will give you more info.  

You may want to check first the cause of overheating. Does it happen often? Coolant level is also important and make sure the radiator fan is working right.  

Yep, you got a jetta, Ive been all over north america w/ my 89 jetta. And your right. Go about 500 to 700 miles and she just shuts down. I think the computer gets hot. Try blowing out the computer w/ compressed air. It might be grungy. And may cause it to heat, and shut down. Until it cools.