New from GA

[ladybug2012]

Hey everyone,
I am looking to get either a 2001 vw new beetle GLS TDI diesel automatic for now...want to transfer to manuel. Or either an 2004 GLS turbo convertible auto. Just don't know which one would be better. I really love the gas milage I would get with the diesel. Please comment with any helpful hints. Thanks

Carrie

[Toad]

Right off the bat, id tell you to get the 04 just because it will have the 6sp auto instead of the older 4sp which was horrible and that's the auto you will get with the older tdi.

If you're planning on keeping the car stock or for a long time, id go with the gas turbo, they can still gbet 25-30mpg depending how you drive it, but the allure of the tdi is strong.

If you really want a tdi, get one with a manual transmision.

Stay away from that 4spd automatic. Its worth staying away from.

[IndyTom]

Originally Posted by ladybug2012

Hey everyone,
I am looking to get either a 2001 vw new beetle GLS TDI diesel automatic for now...want to transfer to manuel. Or either an 2004 GLS turbo convertible auto. Just don't know which one would be better. I really love the gas milage I would get with the diesel. Please comment with any helpful hints. Thanks

Carrie

The TDI will get you better mileage but also has the crappier 01M suckomatic transmission which will cause you issues sooner rather than later. I always wanted a TDI myself but would never buy one with an automatic. The 04 Turbo GLS may or may not have the tiptronic 6 speed transmission. They did still use the 01M 4 speed until 2005 but they did have some cars in 2004 that did come with the tiptronic 6 speed. The only way is to check and make sure. If the shifter has a gate where you can switch over and shift the gears manually then you do have the tiptronic transmission. If it doesn't than you still have the 01M 4 speed transmission.
Personally, I wouldn't buy an automatic with the notion that you will swap it out for a manual. Doesn't make any sense. Why not just get one with a manual to start with?