Used 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle Diesel Consumer Reviews
Used New Beetle for sale
1
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Fantastic Commuter Car!
dieselbreath, 03/29/2003
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle TDi 2dr Hatchback
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I ordered this car Jan.1998 after sitting in one at the Vancouver International Auto Show (I'm 6'5"). But its so much better than just an economy car with headroom. Beetles handle well. The torque launches the car off traffic lights faster than most "performance" cars! Maneuvering in tight locations is a breeze, and there are parking spots it will fit into everywhere. LOW POINTS: - its low to the ground ... if you encounter lots of snow its not the car for you. - the suspension doesn't have the travel to soak up bumps like a typical German car. - the back seat is NOT for adults. (but kids love it) Other than that its reliable and economical.
Lots to like in a small car + 47 MPG
rickf, 02/04/2009
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle TDi 2dr Hatchback
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I see a lot of complaining about New Beetles in here, but reviews are created by the people who love and the people who hate the car. So you get either side... I have a 1998 Beetle that has 104K miles on it. Yes, it is 11 years old, yes it needs a little this or a little that, but honestly... show me any 11 year old car that starts every time even in sub zero weather, gets great gas mileage, and all in all is a great car. Take care of your vehicles and they will take care of you.
If Only I Knew Then What I Know Now
foxdown07931, 03/05/2002
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle TDi 2dr Hatchback
4 of 7 people found this review helpful
Without a doubt this is the most problematic car I have ever owned. Out of service for weeks as electrical faults could not be traced down. Repeated visits to dealer to correct same problem. Seems like every four months or so we encounter a problem. Usually electrical in nature. These costs are on top of the routine maintenance costs which are shocking. For example, every 40,000 miles a new timing belt is required at a cost of close to $900, brakes $700,headlight bulb close to $100.
My poor Beetle
Brian, 08/07/2009
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle TDi 2dr Hatchback
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my TDI brand new back in 1998. loved the car but boy it did not take long to start sinking shop time and money into it. from headlights to window motors, to dash lights. I have had this car to the shop so many times they told me that all these beetles were doing the same thing. I have done a mass air flow sensor, I sill have the engine light on. timing belt and by the way its like 1100.00 for that at the VW dealership. they have to change all the parts on the front of the motor so they will stand behind there work. 2 cd players 2nd one is still not working. I paid 17,500.00 for this car and prob will have 8,000.00 in repairs soon. great idea for a car but a money pit......
My Love Bug!
funnymermaid, 05/24/2011
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle TDi 2dr Hatchback
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've got around 80,000 miles on it. I bought it approx 5 yrs ago, when it had 50,000 miles, from my elderly Mom. We've both took great care of it, kept it maintained. I've had very few problems, just regular normal problems. I've just now had to replace the AC compressor due to small leak, only $400! I still love, love, love my Bug!
1