Buying a NB

[leedehao]

Hey guys, I'm kinda new to this site so spare pls bear with me. I haven't got a car yet and really am interested to get a NB. Could anyone pls tell me as much as possible about the car? Is it really reliable and stuff? How many miles till it reaches the end of its life? Also, the models that are available like GL/GLS etc? Thanks

[CoriBug]

As much as possible? Whew! That's a lot! If you want history, there are plenty of VW/Beetle books out there.

I'll start with some basics:
First model year: 1998
Trim lines: GL, GLS, GLX, Turbo S
Engines: 2.0, 1.8, 1.9TDI
The 2.0 has 115 HP, 1.8 has 150 and the TDI has 100. The Turbo S has 180.

LOTS of colors! Check callisto9's thread under the Paint forum.

Cori

P.S. As far as longevity, I'd say definitely over 200,000 miles for the gas engines and maybe 300,000 or more for the TDI. I don't have statistics for that. Anybody else want to chime in on that?? VW is putting in a new diesel engine called CRD, that will replace the TDI. Debuts in 2008 model year. No diesel for 2007.
--- Oh yeah, all the above info about engines and trim lines was all pre 06. Now there are two engines - 2.5 gas and 1.9TDI. You can only get diesels in hardtop in North America. Europe has diesel verts.
I keep editing this post because I keep thinking of more stuff! If you wander around this site very long, you will learn a lot. I certainly have!

[dnyed]

For 2006, those trim lines are no longer. No 2.0, no 1.8t.

For 2006, they are "Package 1", "Package 2". P2 being the more loaded model. Now, earlier than 2006, the above post applies.


I cannot tell you about how long it will last. These cars are fickle, and require upkeep and maintanence. And if you don't give them what they want, you will be sorry. I hope to drive mine for 200K and beyond. Normally, I trade as soon as the warranty is expired. I love it that much.

Used NB's are reasonably priced, but do your homework. Have it checked out, and don't forget: CarFax.


Good luck. You are at the right little corner of the web, for everything you want to know about our beloved little round cars.

[buggy2]

Originally Posted by leedehao

Hey guys, I'm kinda new to this site so spare pls bear with me. I haven't got a car yet and really am interested to get a NB. Could anyone pls tell me as much as possible about the car? Is it really reliable and stuff? How many miles till it reaches the end of its life? Also, the models that are available like GL/GLS etc? Thanks

If you are truly interested - go to Maple Hill Auto. I have purchased two New Beetles there. They are wonderful with sales & service and have quite a nice assortment at this time to choose from

[Toad]

How long withh they last? Who knows, just look at all the air cooled beetles running around still. If the new bugs are even made half as well, i'll bet i could make mine last till 500,000 miles, and probably more. I just hit 100,000 miles and the engine is as strong as ever and i'm amazingly still on the factory clutch (only my 2'nd car with a manual and i'm only 22 ). I have no play in my steering, still shifts solid, and all-around mechanically runs like new.

Get your bug if you really want one, all I gotta say is when something breaks, fix it fast, the car will thank you.

[CoriBug]

You can get an 06 with 'no package' too. No sun/moon roof or whatever it's really called, no satellite radio or any extra stuff. And like dnyed said, keep up on maintenance especially the timing belt!! That's pretty much for all engines and years, right, veteran NB people? If you get a NB with warranty or you prefer dealerships anyway, make sure you go to a nice/trustworthy one! They do exist. Anyone(dealer or not)who is working on your car should know what they're talking about and treat you like a valued customer.

Cori

[leedehao]

THanks guys for all the info. However I would like to know the diff between GL,GLS, GLX. I'm planning to get a second hand NB as i'm a little tight on budget. You think i could get a decent one under 10k? Oh and buggy2, i've checked maple hills and their beetles are abit too expensive for me, thanks for the tip though

[CoriBug]

Check out a thread under New Members. I think it's titled Difference between GL,GLS,GLX or something like that.

Cori

GL, GLS, GLX- Difference? -- here's the link