2002 Volkswagen Jetta

Prior to the September 11th tragedies, I was in the market for a car. I have driven anything you can think of, and have owned Fords, Volvos, etc. My crappy 96 Mustang Cobra, although stylish and neck snapping fast, had finally crapped out on me. The rear end and the clutch went out at the same time, along with about $1000 of various maintenence problems. I decided to dump it. I had been looking to make the switch from a 2 door sports car to a sedan, without sacrificing too much style or power. If you know cars like I do, you know that there aren't too many quick sedans for around $25k-30k. I had read all of the consumer reports on all of the sedans, and was contimplating a Volvo S70R, but I have had friends with German cars and all are happy with them. I found a 2002 Jetta GLS with the 1.8T (turbo) motor, 17" Siata wheels, sports coil over suspension, etc. It was Galactic Blue with the tiptroni 5-speed trans (This is the Automatic with the Fuzzy Logic Shift Points that allows for manual clutchless shifting). After one test drive in the car I was sold. After closing the doors, I noticed firsthand the rigid feeling of the car. The standard dual front airbags along with side impact air bags, and curtain airbags especially appealed to me on the Jetta as I have been in 3 serious car accidents in other less equiped cars. The car came stock with 180 horsepower, and all 180 was evident. Coming from a highly modified Cobra with 295 HP I thought I would be disappointed. However, the weight ratio in the Jetta, along with the low end Turbo torque and power made me feel right at home. The plush sporty leather seating with seat heaters was another bonus for me. My stang had leather, but the seats would hurt my bach after long trips. I opted for the Monsoon 8 speaker sound system w/ 6 disc changer. I had a bumpin system in my Cobra, so I thought I would be disappointed. Once again, the Germans surprised me with my sound system. It is loud enough, with deep bass that doesn't penetrate the cabin, so I don't upset any old ladies. (just kiddin).

The MSRP on the car was around $26,999 with all of the options, and I managed to talk the dealer down $2k off of the sticker plus got the trade in price I wanted. When picking up the car, I was so excited I had to take a trip. I opted for the extended Pinnacle 100K bumper to bumper warranty. I liked that VW offers 2yr/24K roadside and the standard warranty was okay, but I knew I loved the car and would have it for years. I have already put on about 8000 miles and they have been amazing. I love this car. The only qualms I have about the car- I am 5'11" and I tend to put the seat back as far as possibe to be comfortable. There is not enough leg room for the rear passengers, and I find myself adjusting my seat when I have riders. Oh well, I didnt buy a SUV or a Benzito, so Ill have to make do.

There are many aftermarket parts and upgrades for this car - I was surprised. Volsessories.com has the best prices and amazing customer serivce. I am also looking into the performance computer chips made by Autothority (Autothority.com). They boast 55 HP increase on the 1.8T to the wheels. They make high end chips for Porsche too, so they charge a hefty $500. Not to mention this will void the warranty and a ECU is expensive to replace if things go wrong.

Overall, I give the car a 9.9 The only thing that bugs is the rear seating.