Faults:

Exhaust system had to be replaced at 179000km.

The alternator gave up service at around 210000km.

New shock absorbers at 212000km.

Had to replace rear muffler again at 230000km.

General Comments:

This was a very economical car, both to buy and, generally, to run. We mostly did city driving, getting around 8.0L/100km., and often doing 140-150kmh on the freeways would turn around 7.5L/100km. It would use around 5.5L/100km at a steady 90 kmh on B class roads. It did have problems though in that the ride, even after the new shock absorbers was extremely rough on the French roads. The dashboard would vibrate a lot too.

It was a very good little car during the time we had it, but Volkswagen obviously didn't tune its suspension for the common rough roads that you get in countries all over Europe, instead tuning the suspension for freeways.

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

Very solidly built car. Comfortable in town and for short trips. Although it is a small car, it gives you a good feeling to drive it. But it is terribly underpowered, although it is supposed to have 115 HP. The automatic transmission is taking a lot of power it seems and it is only a 4 speed unsophisticated old box.