1987 Volkswagen Passat C 1.6 turbo diesel from UK and Ireland

Summary:

An economical, comfortable and reliable solid car

Faults:

Dashboard lights need very precise fiddling with the brightness dial to get them to work.

Courtesy light doesn't always work.

Noisy rear brakes, though they work fine.

Engine smokes considerably when cold.

It needed new glow-plugs when I bought it.

General Comments:

The car is fairly narrow and long, with plenty of space inside and a huge boot. Driving position is good.

The ride and handling are decent enough, although the non-powered steering is quite heavy.

The front wheels are set quite far back, which makes it difficult to maneuver.

Performance from the TD engine is reasonable, it is not particularly fast. However, the economy is very good.

The diesel engine is understandably noisy, and there is quite a bit of wind noise at motorway speeds. There is fair amount of tire noise too.

This car is ffiteen years old, and there is no rust at all apart from a few minors blisters on the right rear wheel arch. The paint is still in good condition.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th November, 2003

1987 Volkswagen Passat Estate 1.8 petrol from Sweden

Summary:

An underestimated winner

Faults:

The top front suspension bearings are not too good right now.

The front left wheel bearing is not too good either. But It still keeps going.

General Comments:

The car was sold in Germany, but imported to Sweden in 1999. It's not rusty at all. Despite the high mileage of the car, it is in good shape. I love this car. The engine runs great and its really comfortable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th November, 2003

1987 Volkswagen Passat GL5 Estate 2.0 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Superb A to B transport for little money now

Faults:

CV joint at 119,000.

Top front suspension bearings at 110,000.

General Comments:

Excellent motorway car - 100mph @ 4000 rpm and good fuel economy - 40mpg @ 70mph.

Very hard wearing seats and cabin - still no wear

Poor brakes when loaded.

Very well built, very reliable with regular servicing.

Quiet comfortable and roomy, better than some new cars I have owned.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th January, 2001