Volkswagen Bora (1999 - 2005) 1.6 Highline 4d (2005/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like quality & luxury & economy all rolled in one.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Parents love it, wife approves, that's all that matters to me :).

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes but automatic definitly. Wonderfful to drive except for the horrible gear change.

What are you likely to buy next?

Same again in automatic or Golf Match Mk5.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,000

When did you buy the car?

September 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes because I work for VW & I got discount.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted to own a top of the range vw & I got the opportunity to do so cheap.

What was the dealer like?

My employer.

What's it like to drive?

Quite a harsh ride for a top of the range spec, feels every bump & imperfection through the low profile tyres. Gear change a bit clunky. Quiet engine, sometimes too quiet. Visibility good, A/C cold, audio system excellent with front & rear component speakers. Did a Devon run, 5hr drive non stop recently, arrived fresh as a daisy.

What's it like to park?

Easy, with the sensors & light steering.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Well, I got excited about this car due to it being a one owner from new with only 24k on the clock & full dealer history. So I was amazed when, after a few weeks, the gear stick felt like it was bouncing out, this was initially traced to excess movement in the upper gearbox mounting which I replaced. This improved it slightly but the gear lever still moves too much in my opinion, this model having the earlier type metal rod linkage, I was told didn't help things. I also find the ride a little rough over certain road surfaces & there is a definite rumble from a bearing even though it passed its MOT.

What's most practical about your car?

Everything works on it & all fittings feel solid & tight with no squeaks or rattles apart from the occasional creak from the leather interior. Massive boot, parking sensors as standard & it starts on the button every time. Heating system superb & great accelaration in 5th from 50 - 70mph for overtaking.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Parking sensors are very usefull in tight spaces. Dash lighting with the chrome dials are great & relaxing to look at.