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The engine is by far one of the best VW ever made. You better learn how to drive a stick because the automatics do not carry a reputation for being reliable.

Check the rockers, strut/shock/wheel wheels, behind fuel flap, and the entire floor for rust.

If it has cruise control, don't expect it to work. Mine doesn't.

The reverse gear (manual) is know for chipping, causing a clicking noise or throwing itself out of gear. Sooner or later it goes out completely. Do not fear. You can snag a replacement for $100 or less at a local junkyard.

Most electrical problems will stem from the ignition switch. They are under $20 to replace. Keep an extra floating around. Don't worry if the CEL or airbag light is on. Take it and get it scanned to see why it's on. The airbag light is most likely due to a broken clock spring. If the ABS light is on, you should clean the speed sensors. If it persists, check the ABS rings in the wheel hubs and the pressure regulator under the car.

Ask the seller what coolant he or she used. They need to have used only G12. Mixing that with the stuff you find at Autozone can cause a lot of damage to the cooling system.

The timing belt should have been replaced once by now. Ask for paperwork.

The seller should be able to tell you the fuel economy was above 30MPG, if not, something is wrong.

They are wonderful cars. The Cinnabar color is by far my favourite.

These are very good cars. Only a certified mechanic can give you specifics on the one you are looking at. You should have it looked at before you fork over your money because you can't get it back.

My wife's Cabrio is a little older (1986) with 185,000 miles but, my brother's wife also owns a very fancy 2002 Cabrio they are both very nice and run strong.

I have no experience with a VW automatic . The 5 speed is so much more fun to drive. Good luck.

My overall impression is that it is a pretty reliable car. The engine was solid. There were few complaints about the trans failing prematurely. VW was not then plagued with the electrical problems that seem abundant lately. The convertible top was pretty durable, but also expensive to replace if that is an issue with the car you are looking at. I did like that they used a glass rear window, replete with a defogger, which is not true of all convertibles. It also does rather well in the snow.

whether it extremely is an computerized, they have been very troublesome, and could be stayed faraway from! whether it extremely is a stick, possibly the shift linkage desires adjusted. If the computerized tranny is undesirable, you're gazing approximately $3K for a clean one! Ouch!