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They were good for their time- 40 years ago. You can get a Honda Civic that is 10 times better.
You're the one who is going to be working on it, and paying for it, and driving her around when it is broke.
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The VW bug remains my favorite car. Contemplating of purchasing a newer model. Haven't been keeping up with the latest news but has the company corrected the inherent electrical issues?
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Most specialized VW factory tools can be substituted for using a 3' long crowbar and a pipe wrench (and maybe a couple of feeler gauges).
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The original Beetle certainly scores high on both the coolness and nostalgia scales... but I wouldn't put any child of mine behind the wheel of one.
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lewlee wrote:
You'll need to get this
http://www.amazon.com/Keep-Volkswagen-Al...1566913101
I had the Rabbit version of that manual - still my all-time favorite repair manual. When I wasn't using it to repair my Rabbit, I read it simply because it was fun to read.
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Way against the tide here, but my kids are in a 2007 Ford Focus. I have nothing bad to say about it. Decent ride, kinda quiet at highway speed. Room for four. Parts everywhere. PZEV motor. And 30 MPG around town in LA. Just an alternative for you. Not cute or cool of nostalgic, but to date - reliable.
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If you do buy one, be sure to replace the gas line that extends from the gas tank to the carburetor if it looks the least bit old. Those hoses have a tendency to dry out, crack open, and pour gasoline on a hot block or exhaust manifold (trying to remember VW's exhaust setup). That will create a fire that can consume the vehicle or at least some paint and wiring.
A fire extinguisher carried aboard is a reasonable item to have handy.
I think I once read that more VWs and buses have gone to the Great Beyond from fires than all other cars COMBINED!