Let me start out by saying that I am slightly biased towards VW's. My friend was against me purchasing a VW. He had heard the horror stories!!

Reliability: TDI. Diesel. Sounds like it should be tough. Well, it is! Many miles on it, and it still runs wonderfully. No breakdowns or overheats or anything of the sort. Keep the oil changed and check the timing belt and you should be set!

Exterior: wow, I love it. But then thats more opinion than anything.

Interior: A TDI with leather seats is hard to come by, or so I'm told. In any case, the seats are very nicely done and very comfortable. One lever to move forward and backward. One lever to change the angle of the seat in relation to the floor. One lever to move the seat up or down. Then there is a dial that you turn to move the chair-back to the "reclined" position. Some people dislike these, but I like it. Its *impossible* to mess your seat up. No harsh grinding sounds if you mis-handle the handle!! No cup holder up front, but as the European's would think "you shouldn't be drinking if you are driving." There is one in the back though. NO GLOVE COMPARTMENT. But I NEVER really notice this. There is a tiny compartment in between the front seats and then side pockets on the doors that work fine for me. Nice seat head rests. Very nice dash controls, lights up nicely at night !! Stereo sounds wonderful as is from the factory.

Safety? Pretty good rating as I remember. It also helps insurance that you have day-time running lights.

Crazy things I love about my car that you probably wont:
The sound of the diesel engine purring. (gas mileage!! 35 or so city 40 hwy!!) The seatbelt reminder buzzer...isn't a buzz but a little "do doo do" tune. You can put the windows up and close the sunroof with the key...from the outside! You can't lock you keys in your car...if they are in the ignition. If you physically lockt he door...and shut it...it will unlock! (don't try this at home unless you have a spare key! i don't want to get yelled at!)

Well, overall, its a very very nice car for the price. Sure, if you have the money get a BMW or something. But for my money, I think it has a lot more character. And that friend that didn't want me to get a VW. Well, lets just say he owns a Passat now as well!!!
Amount Paid (US$): 12,000
Condition: Used
Model Year: 1996
Model and Options: Passat TDI with leather