Looking to buy 1998 2.0 NB

[BumbleBeeTDI]

I've been looking at getting a 1998 New Beetle with the 2.0L 4 cyl. engine, non turbo. 5 speed standard shift. Interior is a little rough but easy fix, cleaning mostly. Paint looks good, tires are fair. Down to the mechanical stuff, just under 103K miles, TB and pump replaced by vw dealership with papers, documented CEL do to air leak in gas filler neck. Runs great, shifts smooth, reverse works good, both window regulators have been replaced by dealership. My main thing is, if I get this, what am I looking at as far as maintenance, common problems with this engine, tranny, suspension, etc. Going to look at the car again in a day or so. Let me know if you need any more info (Guy was in a hurry for appointment and didn't have much time to ask him alot.) Price is $2500 since I know the guy personally, he's selling it for 3000 otherwise.

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, but I've got a news flash for you, if he'll take $2500 from you, he;ll take it from anyone! At least unless there is another agenda involved. You're $2500 isn't more $$$ in his pocket than someone else's. LMAO

MORAV

[Opelmania]

I got my 98 2.0 5 speed 22 months and 58K miles ago at 92K miles. As far as repair wise, I have only replaced the crankshaft position sensor. The 2.0 is a real workhorse and mated with a 5 speed, virtually indestructable with normal maintenance. My friend is an original owner on a 99 2.0 5 speed and he is currently at 293K on original motor, trans, clutch, and shocks. I only have half of that, so I should be good to go with minimal cost.

[BumbleBeeTDI]

as far as the 2500, it's because I am a friend of his and he would take it from someone else if he can't get his 3000. BUT ANYWAYS...Opelmania, thanks for the feedback I was looking for, no offense Vette. I like having peoples input on this type of stuff, everyone does when it comes to buying a car. I have a TDI NB already and love it other than some of the maintenance costs but I need a second car. So the TDI is going to my wife like she wanted in the first place and I am getting the 2.0 (hopefully) since she can't drive a manual.

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

Think I suggested it was a sweet deal and that you "Go for it"!

Life is a lesson, why would anyone sell a friend something cheaper than they would sell to a stranger, but it does make them appear as more of a friend! As a matter of fact, when it comes to many things, I would prefer to not even sell to a friend! They remain one, that way.

[BumbleBeeTDI]

yeah, I do get what you're saying. In this case, if something goes wrong with the car, you could possibly blame him for selling you a POS or something.

AND YES I DID SEE THE PART OF GO FOR IT AND I BELIEVE I WILL (I said no offense) Thanks for everyone's comments, it helps out no matter what

[JP]

good buy 2.slow is worth it, i use my bug as a daily driver and drive it like it's stolen, fun car not beating anyone in a race but it's fun

[Opelmania]

Originally Posted by BumbleBeeTDI

as far as the 2500, it's because I am a friend of his and he would take it from someone else if he can't get his 3000. BUT ANYWAYS...Opelmania, thanks for the feedback I was looking for, no offense Vette. I like having peoples input on this type of stuff, everyone does when it comes to buying a car. I have a TDI NB already and love it other than some of the maintenance costs but I need a second car. So the TDI is going to my wife like she wanted in the first place and I am getting the 2.0 (hopefully) since she can't drive a manual.

You bet and good luck with the car! Post pics when you get it!

[BumbleBeeTDI]

thanks, I'm going to the bank tomorrow and hope to get it by this weekend.

[BumbleBeeTDI]

Well, I am the proud owner of another beetle, as of today and will be making a photo thread soon once I get some pictures and maybe, just maybe, when I clean him this weekend....he will let me know his name

[D2Beetle]

Excellent! Cannot wait to see the pics. If you need any help let me know.