Auto TDI vs Gas Manual

[sideshowbob]

Have narrowed the choice down to two possible options.

A 2001 automatic 1.9 L TDI with 159,000 KM or a 1999 5 speed gas with 110,000 km.

The only thing that is not functional on the gasser is the A/C.

Any suggestions or advice?

[QQQ]

How many miles do you think you'll be putting on it? What is it's manin purpose? Commuting, fun car, long trips? I'm leaning towards the TDI in any case.

[AccountingTroll]

I'm a huge fan of TDI's but not a fan of VW automagic transitions. What engine is in the Gasser? The TDI with an automatic will only get 35 to 40 mpg, if that. It all depends on your driving style. The Gasser with a 2.0 4 cylinder will get, what, 25 to 30? For me, it would be a coin toss.

YMMV

[sideshowbob]

Mostly commuting and some long trips. Our other vehicle is a 2002 Sienna and we put 30,000 km -or 18,000 miles om it last year.

[QQQ]

Commuting in heavy traffic with a 5 speed sucks big time. I assume this will be an addition to the Sienna which means you may not put as many miles on as the Sienna alone. So the fuel savings won't be too significant. Anyway, I think this would be a good way to look at the two:

TDI advantages:
slightly better mileage (fuel cost taken into consideration)
newer
lasts longer
auto easier for commuting

TDI disadvantages:
must pump proper fuel (diesel)
fuel gelling at very cold climates
strict quaility oil changes (and other maintenance)

Gas advantages:
known fueling
more common
manual transmission

Gas disadvantages:
shorter motor life than TDI
older vehicle

[AccountingTroll]

Originally Posted by QQQ

Gas disadvantages:
shorter motor life than TDI
older vehicle

And non working AC.

I think we need to know the price of each. How much cheaper is the gasser? In my area, TDI's are demanding huge premiums.

[sideshowbob]

2001 TDI = $9800 Canadian - non negotiable
1999 Gasser = $8500 - negotiable

[noR]

If your commute to work is over 20mi; get the TDI.

[AccountingTroll]

Oh, ya, get the TDI or talk the owner of the gasser down alot. To me, the TDI seems cheep. Just make sure all the maintenace items have been done.

[sideshowbob]

Am leaning heavily towards the TDI.

We both commute about 10 miles to work per day, but the summer usually has a lot of long road trips.