Volkswagen Bug Reborn!

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Comments

  • SR20DETSR20DET Member Posts: 3
    Hey VW owners, I love the way the new BEETLE looks, but I don't like the engine it has, I own a '95 Sentra GLE and have raced the NEW BEETLE, on the street, it was a blue one, and IT WAS A AUTO, I asked the owner and he confirmed it. I smoked him big time, my NISSAN is modded but I would think that durring the time of the ownership of the NEW BEETLE the owner of it will compete in LOTS of street races, and LOSSE most of them. My cousin ordered the 1.8L Turbo, he will get it in July. I saw a article on the net and the it said that even with the TURBO engine the Bug will only do 0-60 in 9 sec, thats slower then my GLE, I DO DRAG RACE AND MY CAR IS FAST.
  • mznmzn Member Posts: 727
    You're right, I'm sure. Somehow I can't quite see the NB in a drag race. Peterun and other NB owners, have you raced yours yet? :-)

    carlady/host
  • zfarmzfarm Member Posts: 5
    If you want a beetle, go out a buy a 1978 bug--it's the real thing!!!
  • raytsuiraytsui Member Posts: 9
    If you continue to race Beetle's, boy will you be in for a surprise when the 1.8T Beetle comes out. The quote of 0-60 in 9.0 seconds is conservative. The NB will have essentially the same engine as my current Audi A4 (20V 4-cyl, DOHC Turbo making 150HP). A manual A4 weighing about 3000 lbs can sprint to 60 in 8.1 seconds. The Beetle should easily be able to accomplish it in mid to low 7's. And that is before you start tuning it. If you are one to race cars, you can reprogram the 1.8 Turbo's ECU and can get 200 HP out of it for $400 to $700. If you go further, 250 HP is possible. See the below links for more info

    check out these pages:
    http://www.hoppenmotorsport.com/tuning.htm
    http://www.chip-tuning.com/products/chiptuning/whatis.htm

    Later, an all-wheel drive Beetle will be out. With such traction, it will outrun most cars even in the rain. The New Beetle is destined to become the cutest cheap performance car ever.
  • SR20DETSR20DET Member Posts: 3
    See The Turbo Beetle is heavy and will be slower than the A4, also my Nissan only needs the Turbo (which is avalible) to make it have 240HP at the wheels (about 300HP at the crank)and its a 1.6L, now if we want a real race car, just dial in more boost and U will have more HP, right now as of my writting I can take on Ur A4 easilly, also the ECU upgrade is a ripp of, just get a Greddy or HKS boost pressure computer for 600 bucks- it will allow U to crank up the boost, and It will make Ur A4 into a 400HP car. I hate to put U down ( love Imports-hate Domestics) but for 13900 ( thats what I paid for my NEW Sentra GLE) I with alittle modifications can take on the A4 or the MODDED-Turbo Beetle for that matter, it will also cost me less, and as of now my car goes ONLY 131MPH without a turbo. I just ordered a 75-shot of NOS so that 131MPH figure should jump to 140 easilly.
  • DanaRDanaR Member Posts: 37
    Enough of this racing stuff. I doubt anybody buys a Beetle to race. MJB56, I'm also waiting for my bright blue TDI, which has been promised any day now. I hope there's not a holdup somewhere! One thing VW needs to improve on is customer service so we're not left in the dark.
  • jamie01jamie01 Member Posts: 9
    These TDIs are out there-although I know they are rare. But I was at a dealer in Springfield, VA about a month ago, and they had a black one for sale, that people were test driving. I'm sure it's gone now, but at least we know there have been a FEW available. Has anyone test driven one w/theTDI? Decent acceleration?
  • raytsuiraytsui Member Posts: 9
    My answer to SR20DET

    I don't think you understand the purpose of the Beetle or the A4. There are lots of cars that will beat my A4 in a drag race. It is designed as a luxury sports sedan and I didn't buy it to race Sentras or other econo-boxes. Not to put down your car but I could have bought any new car up to about $30,000 and I didn't want no Sentra. Instead of ranting about how you can beat this and that, go find some Civics and Mustangs to race. I know a number of people with modified Integras, Preludes, Ram Air Firebirds that would be happy to humble your Sentra (on the drag strip, on the autocross or around a track -- take your pick).

    The point of my post above is that with a few dollars, you can pop in a reprogrammed ECU that will allow the Beetle Turbo to run with the big boys. There is no way the Turbo Beetle will weigh more than the A4 as the A4 is substantially bigger. The current Beetle is about 2700 lbs vs A4's 3000. Adding the 1.8L engine won't change that much. The ECU upgrade takes 10 minutes and doesn't require any twiddling and changes that are irreversible. In another 5 minutes, I can turn my car back to completely stock form. Once you start strapping turbos and the like to your Sentra, good luck on warranty repairs.

    If you want to dispute this more...I'd be happy to discuss this further off-line.
  • raytsuiraytsui Member Posts: 9
    DanaR is right. Who buys a Beetle (or A4 for that matter) to race anyway?

    A Beetle is a lifestyle car. It is a statement against all the bland similar looking econoboxes out there. Style, style style. A car that evokes emotion like no other.

    An A4 is a luxury sports sedan. Comfortable for 4, can tear up the twisties on demand. Cruise in silence at 100mph on the autobahn for hours. Looks classy and built like a brick.
  • VolchoVolcho Member Posts: 3
    DC-NoVA-MD buyers beware!

    I went to Springfield VW yesterday to personally check my status on the waiting list for the New Beetle. I had put down a $500 deposit a couple of weeks ago, but started to get suspicious when the sales "person" (and I mean "person" as a compliment)wouldn't return my calls nor update me on my status.

    Well, as you can probably imagine this "person" couldn't show me any waiting list or pipeline of deliveries. On top of that, he got started on a completely uncalled-for tirade on how this car is selling at a steep premium ("adjusted market value" he called it)and I should just expect to get whatever they could get me, whenever they could get it to me --at a non-negotiable minimum of $1,995 over MSRP! To justify this, they have taken the precaution of removing the MSRP window sticker from the New Beetles they have in stock, and will not show it to you unless you specifically request it.

    I had purchased two cars from this "person" in the past --a Jetta GLX VR6 and a Golf GTI-- and he gave me reasonable prices then. But I guess this time he had no qualms about showing me how classless and unethical the personnel at that dealership is. I had heard horror stories in the past about Springfield VW, but after the way I was treated yesterday, I am never getting near that place again and recommend that you do the same --if you want to be treated professionally and with respect that is.

    In any case, I cancelled my deposit and am now waiting for the time when a VW loyalist can get a New Beetle without the risk of getting gouged (maybe in mid-1999).
  • genekgenek Member Posts: 3
    I spoke to my dealer in Dallas today re: the price gouging. He said that he knew some dealers doing this in the Metroplex, but overall all of the dealers are selling at MSRP with no bargaining. I spoke with another prospective buyer that a dealer tried to charge $22,000 for a NB. He cancelled his order and placed it with another dealer in Dallas. He was notified his would come in the next shipment in two weeks. He got the color and options he wanted. To make long story short, the dealers who gouge are the same ones who believe in putting sawdust in the crank to sell used cars.
  • mjb56mjb56 Member Posts: 170
    To DanaR: I saw the shipping list and my Bright Blue TDI is "in transit". There were 4 Jettas on that same list that were in transit and they appeared at the dealer last Saturday morning. The fellow I deal with, (and he's been great, not like some of the horror stories I'm hearing) was surprised it wasn't on that truck so I expect it in the next couple of days but at the very least by this Saturday. As for all this racing nonsense, give me a break. If you want to race Porsche makes a nice little model called a 911. I suggest that you go one out. Personally, I prefer the styling of the NB over the Sentra, but that's just me. What do the rest of you think?
  • raytsuiraytsui Member Posts: 9
    My reply was obviously directed at SR20DET's "My car can beat your car" postings. I love the Beetle and I was pointing out that the Turbo Beetle has the potential to be a little pocket rocket in a cute package especially with a simple, cheap, and safe ECU swap. I am sure potential Beetle buyers are not concerned that some Sentra out there can out drag it to the next stoplight. There is something to be said for cars that have personality and the Beetle has it in spades. Very few cars out there have any sort of personality. This seems to be a concept lost on most Japanese cars. Our second car, an Accord is bland as can be. I am hoping to replace the Accord with a Beetle when the demand drops a little. Meanwhile I'll be out there tearing up the twisties in my Audi A4 1.8T.
  • ron_davisron_davis Member Posts: 4
    I have not taken possession of my NB yet, but my shopping experience has been pleasant as car shopping goes. The dealer sold the car for MSRP, no discounting, the market didn't demand it. A second dealer, (also in the New Orleans area) got wind of my inquiries and offered me a NB for $22,000. I told him that was ridiculous since I had paid approx. $17,400 with the same equipment. The first dealer may not make a killing on this initial purchase, but I would be a repeat customer. The second sleaze won't see me in his dealership.
  • PeterunPeterun Member Posts: 83
    I've had my NB for seven weeks and never once had the inclination to race. It's an oxymoron: NB and racing. In fact, I think I'm cancelling my 1.8 turbo order. The 2.0 with the adaptive automatic is plenty sufficient. I'm talking 80 mph headed up the 5 to San Fran from LA. Never for a moment wished for more power. Pete
  • raytsuiraytsui Member Posts: 9
    Actually, when it comes time to trade in our Accord for NB, I will be buying the 2.0 engine with automatic myself. For me to justify a second car, it's gotta be thrifty and and $20000 NB Turbo somewhat contradicts itself. Peterun, how do you find the automatic? Does it downshift well enough when you do need to pass? How's your fuel economy? I am hoping they will slip the Tiptronic transmission myself as it would offer the best of both worlds.
  • DovDov Member Posts: 24
    Re: price gouging. I heard that VW head office has sent directives to its dealers that the NB is just one step in a transformation of VW. The directive asks dealers not to raise prices on the NB over MRSP as the intention is to develop continuing brand loyalty for upcoming model introductions. There is a fear that if the dealers "screw up" the launch of the NB by price gouging, it will turn people off VW in general. I think what adds to the problem is that VW does not have the same distribution and dealer network (in North America) as some of the other car companies so they are trying to be extra careful with customer satisfaction with the existing dealers. I think if anyone experiences price gouging, they should threaten to report the dealer to VW head office. Having said all this, I live in Toronto and have not yet entered a dealership so I can't say what is happening first hand. I am still trying to determine which is preferable, the TDI or the gas engine - (5 spd., not the upcoming 150 hp Turbo but the existing 90 hp diesel vs. the existing gas engine.)
  • kchanuskchanus Member Posts: 27
    The reason why the dealers raise the price because those dump rich people willing to pay the extra $ for the car. Can you believe a person paid $29000 for a new beelte? It's just unbelieveable.
  • mjb56mjb56 Member Posts: 170
    To raytsui: Sorry, my tirade was not directed at you. I just think that to compare a NB to a Sentra is a little bit off base. The vehicles are meant for two completely different target markets. While I'm sure the Sentra is a wonderful automobile, I would not consider one due to the sameness of the design in an already boring streetscape. If that's what some folks want...go for it!
  • raytsuiraytsui Member Posts: 9
    To mjb56.

    No apology needed. I agree with you all the way.
  • mgilbertmgilbert Member Posts: 1
    Any idea when the automatic transmission TDI will be available?

    Wife is too short to drive manual transmission... the nice airbag steering wheel is too close to her chest (less than 10 inches which seems to be the norm).

    Thanks

    Michael
  • pocahontaspocahontas Member Posts: 802
    Okay, I test drove the NB today... base model, with convenience/sport package. We had seriously thought about trading in our 97 Altima for one. Hope I don't have to many wrenches thrown at me for my observations. Okay, it was fun to drive despite: not enough power, seat felt too low for my taste... space felt cramped. The cloth covering the seats looked cheap in my opinion, wondering how well they would hold up; I'm also a seamstress, so I kinda have a feel for fabric. Driver's side forward motion seat lever on this one was not working, so I was unable to flip this seat forward and check out the back seats. This left me wondering about the overall fit and finish quality... of course, it's apparent that the back seats would be a tight fit for anyone older than 10.

    Overall, I think it's the looks that are selling this car; And I also was enamored by the cuteness. I think this car is beyond being a "life style" or "nostalgia" issue. It's become such a media event, it's really all about getting a lot of attention, it seems... which is why is was fun to drive. Question is, how much is one willing to pay to look cool on the road? After the fun wears down, in a 6 months or so, I couldn't imagine having to live with this car for much longer; I want something I could comfortably live with for at least 4 to 5 years. So I'll settle for something a little more practical.
  • DanaRDanaR Member Posts: 37
    To MJB56 and others: My TDI finally arrived! Hope you and others get your's soon. I've driven a diesel for years, but this one drives more like a gas engine than a diesel. Its very quiet, smooth and powerful. I just hopes it lasts for 200k+ miles like my Rabbit's.
  • TavisTavis Member Posts: 8
    You're right, the Beetle is no replacement for an Altima. I don't understand how you could possibly expect a small two door to replace a practical 4 door sedan. If you want a practical people mover obviously the Beetle is not for you. The pre-1998 Alima is a nice looking car and I would hang onto it. (just please make sure the "Altima" badge that hides the truck key slot isn't sticking up, the car looks stupid that way and so many people do it)

    As far as the Beetle seat being too low, there is a lever that allows you to raise and lower the seat. Sounds like your test car was not in the best of shape. Are you joking that you felt cramped in the front seat? I had exactly the opposite reaction, almost as if there were too much air space.

    I agree that more power would probably be nice, but then again this car is not meant to be a speed demon.
  • pocahontaspocahontas Member Posts: 802
    Hi Tavis,

    Actually in retrospect, I probably should'n't have used the word "cramped." It wasn't really a physical feeling of being "cramped." I think it's the angle of the windows, especially the back window at such a short glance right behind you, makes the space feel very small... As for the front airspace, being "almost too much", I didn't feel that. I guess the long forward jutting dash can give one the that feeling; more of a feature you'd find in a van. I'm kind of used to that, being that I also drive a (van) Nissan Quest. However that feature in the NB just made the seats feel low, since I could bearly see the front hood. I'm only 5'5", so I'm sure a taller person would not have the same feeling. Perhaps that lever adjustment that you mentioned would have fixed that for me.

    I still think it's an adorable car; was fun to drive; With a little more power to the engine, I'd consider leasing one for about 12-24 months. Oh, and I'm not wanting a "speed demon." Just something that could get me out of the way in the nick of time. And I guess it boils down to what one is used to... I did hear they were going to be putting out one with a more powerful engine. Lastly, your right; this car could not replace a more practical four door. However, I'm sure the cuteness of the NB is making a lot of people, such as myself consider it; for a few moments anyway.
  • mznmzn Member Posts: 727
    Sounds like you're in the same boat with the carlady, Pocahontas. I'm just not cool enough for the New Beetle! Too practical. :-) Still, I love to see them on the road and I'd be thrilled to be a driver or a passenger now and again.
  • pocahontaspocahontas Member Posts: 802
    Yep, they sure are cute. And I envy the people that have the means to have one as a third car. Don't think that would work too well for me with my condo & one car garage ;-)

    Speaking of ATTENTION getting, a local Mazda dealership in my areas has purchased three Beetles:(Red/White/Blk). Has them all lined in front of his dealership just to draw attention. He hopes to sell more of his Mazda's that way. As people stop in to look at the NB's..., the sales team asks if "they'd like to look at a Miata... also." He's also priced these 3 Beetles at 7K over the msrp, just in case someone wants to buy one. (I've heard it affects the warranty adversely if you don't buy one directly from a VW dealership, so be careful.)
    Anyway yesterday, this Mazda dealership was on the front page of the local paper, getting press for his unique marketing ploy. Guess it's working.
  • mjb56mjb56 Member Posts: 170
    As I'm still awaiting delivery of my Bright Blue TDI NB I've learned from my dealer that delivery is being delayed by rail congestion compliments of Union Pacific Railroad. (They claim to have several "sold" cars on this same shipment.) At first I didn't believe it. But after reading the full story on various websites, I inclined to believe it's true. So if anyone besides me is getting agitated waiting for delivery, this might explain it. However, explanations don't make the wait any easier.
  • mznmzn Member Posts: 727
    Pocohontas, that's the most unusual marketing strategy I've encountered to date. :-) Thanks for sharing it with us!

    carlady/host
  • bnormannbnormann Member Posts: 335
    I also saw a NB parked in front of Car Corporation of America, one of the huge used car sellers popular lately. I didn't stop to ask the price.... [;-o

    Bruce. your Edmunds host.
  • PeterunPeterun Member Posts: 83
    Per the sales brochure, claiming that the doors self lock at 8mph . . . KERPLUNK, yes! That's true. You have to spend exactly two minutes at your dealership. They will program the computer for you so that the doors auto lock at mph . .and auto unlock at the exact time you remove the key from the ignition. The radio shuts off at that exact time as well. Also, no, no rear hatch rattles. Car runs perfect, except for the wheel bearing problem I had on the driver's front side. This was repaired very quickly. 8 weeks into it now. VIN approx 1440. Pete
  • genekgenek Member Posts: 3
    Saw a NB in Dallas this week at dealer who sells premium used cars like Mercedes, Jaguar and Rolls-Royce. Rather rarified air for the humble NB, eh?
  • DanaRDanaR Member Posts: 37
    MJB56 sorry to hear that your's hasn't arrived yet, but it'll definitely be worth the wait when it arrives. There were two bright blue tdi's on the truck--mine and another bound for Fairbanks AK--if that's where you live then its probably yours. Today a driver in a Cobra convertible pulled alongside me, stopped, gave me a 'thumbs up', and raced away. Its been a flawless experience so far.
    - Dana
  • ron_davisron_davis Member Posts: 4
    I got my Beetle yesterday: Gas/automatic/metallic blue/sports package/ABS... It's hard to describe the emotional uplift this car produces in people. It's been fun. But I do believe the safety of the NB must be downgraded in light of the fact that it causes the people all around to take their eyes off the road, and their minds off of driving. One guy practically drove into an open canal craning his neck around to see the NB. It's peppy and easily cruises at 80mph: quiet, solid and responsive. I can turn the corners at 35mph. I don't normally do that; I was just testing it and it was stable and hugged the road. It's so full of neat features; it was like opening new presents all day long. I don't believe cars twice the price have any/many more features. I'm collecting funny stories to share. I'll mention one. One sweet lady walked up to me smiling and asked, "Does it run or one or two AA batteries?"
  • kchanuskchanus Member Posts: 27
    Hi, guys, I wonder how much you guys pay for the New Beelte when you guys ordered the car. MSRP?
  • ron_davisron_davis Member Posts: 4
    In New Orleans I bought my car from Crescent City Motors which also sells Audi and Porsche. The car was MSRP: no discount but no dealer markups either. Another dealership in town contacted me with a special deal, offering the same car for $5,000 over MSRP! I had to wait about 6 weeks after my initial deposit of $1,000.00 The car is metallic blue/gas/auto/sports package/cloth seats/ABS and cost me $17,500 before TT&L. It's loaded with features and tons of fun. I am a satisfied customer.
  • mjb56mjb56 Member Posts: 170
    I, at least, got my bill of sale today but that doesn't quite compare to the real McCoy. I am still hearing that rail tie ups and congestion are causing delays for midwestern dealers. This has been confirmed by two different dealers who are furious with the railroad as is the VW regional rep. They are losing significant $$'s as nobody is getting paid while these "sold" cars just sit. I think it's time for a class action law suit! Anybody else in the midwest seeing these delays?
  • kmmcdonaldkmmcdonald Member Posts: 4
    WHERE TO FIND CRASH TEST STATS for NB?

    I've been told that the NB has scored very well
    in crash test results, but am unable to find any
    info on the NHTSA site. Does anyone know where
    I can find this out?

    Thanks,
    Ken
  • snaakesnaake Member Posts: 1
    ken:
    go to metacrawler.com. type in insurance institute highway. you will find what you are looking for.
  • wanahug1wanahug1 Member Posts: 1
    Hi, I'm from Guilderland,NY, right next to our great capitol and am looking to purchase the new Beetle for my wife on our 30th anniversary-7/98
    ( what a guy, huh? )
    Anybody give an idea what the going price is with the local dealers?

    Thanks, David
  • lisalisalisalisa Member Posts: 1
    I have been studying the NB since before it showed up at the car shows and it seems like a great car. However, I am really amazed at how VW dealers have the audacity to inflate the cost of the car thousands of dollars above MSRP! It's almost like the Miata fiasco years ago. I am wondering if anyone was able to purchase a Beetle for MSRP in California or should I be looking for another car to buy? I mean for 20K+ I can get a lot more than the NB is offering- except for the nostalgia and the style! Plus it sounds like some of the VW dealers are now offering great deals on the VW Cabrio now that the Beetle sales are up... anyone have any good experiences buying the Cabrio that they would like to share? Thanks!
  • mppedersenmppedersen Member Posts: 25
    Does anyone know how much the 1.8 L Turbo Gas Engine option will cost? Also who has seen a green New Beetle?
  • mjb56mjb56 Member Posts: 170
    We took delivery of our Bright Blue TDI today and are having a ball. It is even better than I had hoped for. I'm surprised that the diesel has such good acceleration (compared to my old Rabbit diesel). Great handling, very quiet (but enough of the old bug sound to satisfy) and extremely comfortable. I can echo peterun's experience and sentiment. There's nothing else like it on the road. The dealer said to be prepared for a lot of attention and he was right! It's wild. Everyone should have one!
  • mznmzn Member Posts: 727
    Yes, I'm one of those fans who always honks & waves when I see an NB. It's just fun! Though I will keep in mind the "eyes on the road" suggestion. It doesn't matter how safe the NB is if the rest of us are crashing our own cars in the process of admiring them! :-)

    carlady/host
  • VolchoVolcho Member Posts: 3
    Hi everyone,

    I'm happy to tell you that after two months of frustration --including the
    nightmare at Springfield VW (northern VA) chronicled here-- I have finally
    been able to find a New Beetle for MSRP at a dealership in Hagerstown , MD
    (first choice color and options too). In any case, the dealer has given me
    the VIN and says that the car was out of the factory a couple of weeks ago.
    Does anyone know if there's any way of cross-checking this VIN with VW or
    the transportation company? I'm dying to know where my baby is.

    Good luck to everyone who's waiting.
  • DanaRDanaR Member Posts: 37
    Volcho, all I know is that it took exactly 2 weeks for it to arrive in Portland OR after it was 'invoiced' at the port in Houston. Also to MJB56, I thought your mood would be better once your's arrived. I'm happy it worked out in the end. I know your initial feelings exactly. I drove my TDI over the Cascades last weekend and got to 80mph over some of the passes--try that in a diesel Rabbit!
  • DovDov Member Posts: 24
    I have come across some posts on other threads about people complaining about the paint quality on their NBs. After a month or so of driving, some have said that their NB is showing lots of scratches, streaks etc. (The running boards and mirrors seem to be problem areas.) I am curious to hear some more input from other owners.
  • kmmcdonaldkmmcdonald Member Posts: 4
    Anyone know of a dealer willing to take orders
    at MSRP anywhere in the St. Louis area? Anyone
    been able to get a New Beetle with ABS?

    Thanks,
    Ken
  • mznmzn Member Posts: 727
    Say it ain't so! Please post your comments and share your recall experience in the New Beetle Recall discussion. Thanks!

    carlady/host
  • mjb56mjb56 Member Posts: 170
    I'm still finding that I love this thing more every day. There's only a couple more in town so it is still an attention grabber. I'm giving more tours and rides than a VW dealer. I know this will wear off but the safety and performance are for the long haul.
    As for the recall, I think VW is to be commended for reacting in such rapid fashion. The Big 3 usually need to be threatened by Big Gov or some consumer group before they decide to fix something. (Ex. Ford Windstar and Chrysler overdrive transmissions) I think VW will go out of their way to please with this vehicle. So far they've been great.
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