1998 Volkswagen New Beetle Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.53/5 Average
86 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen revives a legend using retro styling touches wrapped around Golf underpinnings.

Pros:
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 86.00
  • great car...horrible electric system - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Ive had this car since it came out in 1998. Overall the car is alot of fun to drive, powerful and handles great. The only problems have been electrical.The front headlights are defective and the power window regulators were disigned poorly. I would definitely buy this car again but would get manual windows and a 1999-2001 since I think they have less electrical problems.

  • Do not waste your time on Beetles PLEASE - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I beg you. I have spent over 3000 and now need a new transmission (everybody seems to need these with these cars.) The car only has 70 Ks and when I bought it only had 39,000. NOTHING BUT A MONEY PIT of problems and every time I turn around I see more and more people with the EXACT same issues as me to a, "t." Like others have said, it should be illegal to make a car this unsafe, and unreliable. Even though my car is older there are similar problems with newer models of this car. I cant think of a worse car to own then this one. Seriously.

  • 207k still running - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    cant believe its 12 yrs old. Held up great, but, so many repairs and each was very costly,$400-$800. Fun car to drive, but too many simple flaws that were too costly to bother fixing, ie:gas cap not closing. and breaking of same parts-bargain price, but too costly to maintain after a few years. Although many parts still original and reliable car, ends dont justify the means.

  • I Love THE VW! - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    I have my very own black one and it is great! i wouldnt want another car they are to cute!

  • garbage - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I had so many problems with this car. My air condition stopped working a few times, my window buttons fell off, headlights were always shutting off. The customer service was also pretty bad. Also its an embarrassing car for a guy to be driving. I thought the car was cool when I first got it because it was new and a fad. As the years went on started to loathe the car and hated when people would ask what I drove.

  • Gotta love it! - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    The new Beetle is the best piece of design to hit the road in many years. It has good build quality, great handling, but unfortunarely a despicable dealer network. This is my 5th "Golf" platform VW. And each time I swear Ill never buy another because of the dealers.

  • 11 years and still a great car - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I bought this car when it first came out and now, at 105,000 miles, it still runs great. A few repairs here- and-there, but great overall quality and driving experience. The mileage remains consistent, the look is still classic and I wouldnt hesitate to buy another.

  • Silver 5 speed in VA - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have had my vehicle for about 1 1/2 years. It only had 14000 miles on it at the time so I have spent alot of time in it. I am considering upgrading to a newer one of the same type. I bought for the fel efficiency and it has been great! People smile when they see on of these cars pull in near them. Kids love "punch buggies" too :)

  • About what I expected for $17K - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    Recently Ive been driving a Focus. I like the Beetle so much better: the way it handles, the conveniences, its smooth acceleration and its look. I have had little annoyances with the Beetle: power windows failing, heating vent shut-off valve broken, power gas cap didnt release once, headlights burned out quickly, keyless entry not working (battery dead?), cassette player died. Other than that crap, I love the car.

  • Fantastic Commuter Car! - 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I ordered this car Jan.1998 after sitting in one at the Vancouver International Auto Show (Im 65"). 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 doesnt 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.

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