Other Volkswagen Passat (1996 - 2001) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Safe solid image. Classy but not flash.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Everyone liked it.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, but wanted newer car than Mk5 Passat.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Already bought Mercedes C Class.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £6,000

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2005

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Got the car way below book price, didn't get good part ex on my old car but still a very good deal.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    A combination of the overall image & the fantastic reputation of the 1.9TDI engine. I was not disappointed by the engine, it's good reputation is well deserved.

    What was the dealer like?

    Fine, no problems.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Handling & ride quality average, great performance & fuel economy. Fantastic seats.

    What's it like to park?

    Hard to judge reverse parking - looks like you are right up against something when you are still miles away from it.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Given the miles & length of ownership - bought it with 73k miles on clock, sold after 5 yrs & 2 months with 134k miles - not too bad. Had to replace engine undertray, air mass meter & clutch master cylinder. Wheel bearings worn & clutch starting to slip by time sold it. Never broke down on me.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Roomy cabin, huge boot, lots of storage areas.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    CD changer, auto wipers & auto dim rear view mirror.