OT: Passat 4Motion???
09-21-2002, 06:15 PM
#1
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Asheville,NC (Don't move here!!!)
Posts: 1,744
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes
on
2 Posts
OT: Passat 4Motion???
Anybody know anything at all about the Passat sedan with V6, Tiptronic, & 4Motion AWD? In particular, the '99, '00, or '01 models.
I'm starting to research the 2nd car / daily driver issue to take some use off the 968, and this is one that has caught my eye. I'll be looking for a used one, under 30K miles, most likely.
Any input, positive, negative, or otherwise, would be appreciated.
Jim, then there's the search for the Vanagon Syncro Westie... not even started yet...
I'm starting to research the 2nd car / daily driver issue to take some use off the 968, and this is one that has caught my eye. I'll be looking for a used one, under 30K miles, most likely.
Any input, positive, negative, or otherwise, would be appreciated.
Jim, then there's the search for the Vanagon Syncro Westie... not even started yet...
09-22-2002, 09:14 AM
#3
Advanced
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: New York City
Posts: 91
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
great car,
unlike common misconception the 4 motion system in the Passat is the same as the Quattro system in the A4 (meaning that they are both torsen based) so it's got a very good driveline
Also keep an eye out for the 1.8t Passat's with a chip they can give the v6's a run for their money
and still return over 30mpg (I see 31-33mpg in my big wheel'd A4 so it should be possible in the Passat as well)
And those 1.8t engines are plenty stout a few users are making 300+whp for many many miles with no special maintenance other than the factory recommended service
Incidentally my A4 is for sale levish@aol.com if you're interested
unlike common misconception the 4 motion system in the Passat is the same as the Quattro system in the A4 (meaning that they are both torsen based) so it's got a very good driveline
Also keep an eye out for the 1.8t Passat's with a chip they can give the v6's a run for their money
and still return over 30mpg (I see 31-33mpg in my big wheel'd A4 so it should be possible in the Passat as well)And those 1.8t engines are plenty stout a few users are making 300+whp for many many miles with no special maintenance other than the factory recommended service
Incidentally my A4 is for sale levish@aol.com if you're interested
09-22-2002, 12:22 PM
#4
Nordschleife Master
[quote]Originally posted by Levish:
<strong>great car,
unlike common misconception the 4 motion system in the Passat is the same as the Quattro system in the A4 (meaning that they are both torsen based) so it's got a very good driveline
Also keep an eye out for the 1.8t Passat's with a chip they can give the v6's a run for their money and still return over 30mpg (I see 31-33mpg in my big wheel'd A4 so it should be possible in the Passat as well)
And those 1.8t engines are plenty stout a few users are making 300+whp for many many miles with no special maintenance other than the factory recommended service
Incidentally my A4 is for sale levish@aol.com if you're interested</strong><hr></blockquote>
Quattro is not the same a 4-Motion. Quattro is always one generation (at least) ahead from a technology stand point. They are similar, but similar does not make them the same.
This would not keep me from getting a passat with 4-motion, but the Audi's are much easier to come by. There are a ton of 1.8L Turbo A4 quattros floating around and that is a very fun car and in fact is a better handler than the V6 cars because it does not push in the corners so much.
<strong>great car,
unlike common misconception the 4 motion system in the Passat is the same as the Quattro system in the A4 (meaning that they are both torsen based) so it's got a very good driveline
Also keep an eye out for the 1.8t Passat's with a chip they can give the v6's a run for their money
and still return over 30mpg (I see 31-33mpg in my big wheel'd A4 so it should be possible in the Passat as well)And those 1.8t engines are plenty stout a few users are making 300+whp for many many miles with no special maintenance other than the factory recommended service
Incidentally my A4 is for sale levish@aol.com if you're interested</strong><hr></blockquote>
Quattro is not the same a 4-Motion. Quattro is always one generation (at least) ahead from a technology stand point. They are similar, but similar does not make them the same.
This would not keep me from getting a passat with 4-motion, but the Audi's are much easier to come by. There are a ton of 1.8L Turbo A4 quattros floating around and that is a very fun car and in fact is a better handler than the V6 cars because it does not push in the corners so much.
09-22-2002, 12:46 PM
#5
Drifting
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Espoo, Finland
Posts: 2,668
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
[quote]Originally posted by ian:
<strong>Quattro is not the same a 4-Motion. Quattro is always one generation (at least) ahead from a technology stand point. They are similar, but similar does not make them the same.</strong><hr></blockquote>
I'm pretty sure the AWD system in the current Passat is the same as in A4. Also, quattro and 4-motion are just trendy names for AWD... and how it's really implemented depends on the car. For example, an Audi A3 quattro uses a viscous Haldex coupling, but the A4 quattro uses the torsen differential.
About the Passat; it's quite good - ie, steering, brakes, gears etc feel solid and it doesn't put out a cheap impression... I probably wouldn't bother with the 4motion version except if you live somewhere where it snows - like here in Finland... when it's slippery, you really get to have a lot of fun. I know, since my dad has a manual V6 4motion Passat
Just my .02€
<strong>Quattro is not the same a 4-Motion. Quattro is always one generation (at least) ahead from a technology stand point. They are similar, but similar does not make them the same.</strong><hr></blockquote>
I'm pretty sure the AWD system in the current Passat is the same as in A4. Also, quattro and 4-motion are just trendy names for AWD... and how it's really implemented depends on the car. For example, an Audi A3 quattro uses a viscous Haldex coupling, but the A4 quattro uses the torsen differential.
About the Passat; it's quite good - ie, steering, brakes, gears etc feel solid and it doesn't put out a cheap impression... I probably wouldn't bother with the 4motion version except if you live somewhere where it snows - like here in Finland... when it's slippery, you really get to have a lot of fun. I know, since my dad has a manual V6 4motion Passat
Just my .02€
09-22-2002, 02:16 PM
#6
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Asheville,NC (Don't move here!!!)
Posts: 1,744
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes
on
2 Posts
Thanks for the input so far, guys... Just to share my reasoning here, I'm 15 months away from early retirement (I'm 53 now). I want something non-flashy for trips (would hate to park the 968 in some motel parking lots overnight) and late nights in the downtown bars here (love live music, but parking lot comment above applies, maybe 2X). This is my main reason aside from price for thinking Passat instead of Audi; less flashy & pricey = less of a target for thieves & vandals.
We don't get a lot of snow, but being in the mountains, it's a friggin' mess when we do. My house is accessed by a steep hill off the main road, and my bum leg makes walking up it painful, especially if toting a load of groceries. That situation is unlikely to improve with age...
Japanese cars are very competent, but seem to be too appliance-like for me; no soul.
I've still got my Toyota 4x4 truck, but don't want to have to drive it every time there's snow in the forecast. I want it to last for as long as I'm able to need a truck for house-related chores.
BTW, as I mentioned above, I'm also thinking I'm going to try to find a good or rebuildable Syncro Westie... weekend trips, beach, etc. I'm about 6 weeks away from that decision, but I'll probably ask y'all to see what's available in your area if I go ahead with that.
Jim, gettin' old sucks, but it beats the hell out of the alternative....
We don't get a lot of snow, but being in the mountains, it's a friggin' mess when we do. My house is accessed by a steep hill off the main road, and my bum leg makes walking up it painful, especially if toting a load of groceries. That situation is unlikely to improve with age...
Japanese cars are very competent, but seem to be too appliance-like for me; no soul.
I've still got my Toyota 4x4 truck, but don't want to have to drive it every time there's snow in the forecast. I want it to last for as long as I'm able to need a truck for house-related chores.
BTW, as I mentioned above, I'm also thinking I'm going to try to find a good or rebuildable Syncro Westie... weekend trips, beach, etc. I'm about 6 weeks away from that decision, but I'll probably ask y'all to see what's available in your area if I go ahead with that.
Jim, gettin' old sucks, but it beats the hell out of the alternative....
09-22-2002, 03:43 PM
#7
Advanced
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: New York City
Posts: 91
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
[quote]Originally posted by ian:
<strong>
Quattro is not the same a 4-Motion. Quattro is always one generation (at least) ahead from a technology stand point. They are similar, but similar does not make them the same.</strong><hr></blockquote>
Oh I can pretty much assure you it is VAG = Volksvagen Audi Group ... there is quite a bit of parts bin sharing
Quattro - referrs to the 4wd system (not the actual mechanicals) for Audi. The 4wd system in the A3/S3/TT is the same (mostly) as the lowly Golf highline and R32 and the Jetta 4motion.
4motion - referrs to the 4wd system in VW's
The transverse engine cars are Haldex based and the Longitudinal engine cars are torsen based.
As a owner (and enthusiast) of VAG products I think I know what I'm talking about. But if I'm not believed I can find a few links to articles.
<strong>
Quattro is not the same a 4-Motion. Quattro is always one generation (at least) ahead from a technology stand point. They are similar, but similar does not make them the same.</strong><hr></blockquote>
Oh I can pretty much assure you it is VAG = Volksvagen Audi Group ... there is quite a bit of parts bin sharing
Quattro - referrs to the 4wd system (not the actual mechanicals) for Audi. The 4wd system in the A3/S3/TT is the same (mostly) as the lowly Golf highline and R32 and the Jetta 4motion.
4motion - referrs to the 4wd system in VW's
The transverse engine cars are Haldex based and the Longitudinal engine cars are torsen based.
As a owner (and enthusiast) of VAG products I think I know what I'm talking about. But if I'm not believed I can find a few links to articles.
Trending Topics
09-22-2002, 03:46 PM
#8
Addict
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Hey Jim.. go for the W8! YIPPIEE!!!! They do sound very very good with exhaust.
The 4 motion is a very good system. I have many friends in the VW community, and not many have had issues with it. They do feel a little mundane, not a lot of feedback for my taste, but everyone is diffrent. I say find a nice example, and if you like it, go for it. I am sure you will not be dissapointed.
If you are looking for a drivers car, go for the 1.8T with a chip. It really wakes up the motor, and you still get great gas milage. For some reason, the 1.8 motor has an impressive amount of low end torque.
The 4 motion is a very good system. I have many friends in the VW community, and not many have had issues with it. They do feel a little mundane, not a lot of feedback for my taste, but everyone is diffrent. I say find a nice example, and if you like it, go for it. I am sure you will not be dissapointed.
If you are looking for a drivers car, go for the 1.8T with a chip. It really wakes up the motor, and you still get great gas milage. For some reason, the 1.8 motor has an impressive amount of low end torque.
09-22-2002, 04:34 PM
#9
Jim I run across a Westfalia every now and then on my job travels and have seen two syncro's for sale, if I find one I will let you know. Also try this site <a href="http://www.ep.com/js/nav/c0/89.html" target="_blank">VW VANS</a>.
09-23-2002, 09:51 AM
#10
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2001
Location: Asheville,NC (Don't move here!!!)
Posts: 1,744
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes
on
2 Posts
[quote]Originally posted by booster:
<strong>Jim I run across a Westfalia every now and then on my job travels and have seen two syncro's for sale, if I find one I will let you know. </strong><hr></blockquote>
Thanks, Russ. It'll be about six weeks before I commit to this decision, but I'd love to look at any in the area even before then. There was one in an old Iwanna for under $10K with only 82,000 miles on it.... wish I'd been ready then!
Jim, ...so the old man looks out the window, and sees Jones loading _two_ duffle bags of cash into his car, with a bank deposit slip sticking out of his pocket. The next moring he tells the genie that he wants a perfect woman, shapely, smart, entertaining, and totally devoted to him. (to be cont'd.)
<strong>Jim I run across a Westfalia every now and then on my job travels and have seen two syncro's for sale, if I find one I will let you know. </strong><hr></blockquote>
Thanks, Russ. It'll be about six weeks before I commit to this decision, but I'd love to look at any in the area even before then. There was one in an old Iwanna for under $10K with only 82,000 miles on it.... wish I'd been ready then!
Jim, ...so the old man looks out the window, and sees Jones loading _two_ duffle bags of cash into his car, with a bank deposit slip sticking out of his pocket. The next moring he tells the genie that he wants a perfect woman, shapely, smart, entertaining, and totally devoted to him. (to be cont'd.)
09-24-2002, 04:04 AM
#11
Burning Brakes
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Ams, NL
Posts: 1,210
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
[quote] Passat sedan with V6, Tiptronic, & 4Motion AWD? In particular, the '99, '00, or '01 models. <hr></blockquote>The V6 is indestructable, Tiptronic is OK, last very long compared to normal automatics.
Dont know about 4motion (or synchro), this relative expensive option is not realy needed overhere and thus rare.
One thing to note is that the front A-arms are cast aluminum (seen that elsewere as well
), but tend to crack in the early versions of Passat / A4.
There must have been an update, since this seems to be solved with model 2000.(In Europe that is).
I would asume that the front suspention linkage is identical for front wheel drive and 4motion, but am not sure.
This can become expensive, so might be worth checking
TakeCare
Dont know about 4motion (or synchro), this relative expensive option is not realy needed overhere and thus rare.
One thing to note is that the front A-arms are cast aluminum (seen that elsewere as well
), but tend to crack in the early versions of Passat / A4. There must have been an update, since this seems to be solved with model 2000.(In Europe that is).
I would asume that the front suspention linkage is identical for front wheel drive and 4motion, but am not sure.
This can become expensive, so might be worth checking
TakeCare
09-24-2002, 08:25 AM
#12
Burning Brakes
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Rhode Island
Posts: 1,046
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Be careful of the early 98 or 99 passats, they were rated poorly,many electrical problems(consumer reports 98 as a car to avoid) wish I read that before I bought one! I got rid of it in 60 days It had some problems.( bought a Volvo s40 turbo)It did have a slick 5 speed shifter and the 1.8 turbo had a lot of get up and go!Nice ride too!Handeling was ok ,it felt big!Newer ones are rated much better.Beware of poor service complaints( dealers and corperate VW)!Ask around ,their customer service has had a lot of complaints!
09-24-2002, 02:05 PM
#13
I have a 2000 Passat 1.8T Variant. My wife, who is very much a car person, says that it is the best car we ever bought. It is fast, comfortable, and gets amazing gas mileage for it's power and size. Unless you get the 4Motion I'm not even sure the V6 is worth the extra price. I have driven both, and while the V6 is a bit quieter and does have some extra punch, the turbo/tiptronic combo is plenty fast. It eats up the mountains when we travel to Boone and Asheville.
As for reliability and service, it is a Volkswagen. So much of the success in this area is based on your dealer and/or mechanic. Let's just say that in 40k miles I have already broken even on the extended warranty I bought with the car (2000 VWs only had a 25k warranty).However, the problems have been relatively minor, the biggest being a ECM bug.
The B5 Passat forum at <a href="http://www.vwvortex.com/" target="_blank">VW Vortex.com</a> are very informative - not quite Rennlist, but close
As for reliability and service, it is a Volkswagen. So much of the success in this area is based on your dealer and/or mechanic. Let's just say that in 40k miles I have already broken even on the extended warranty I bought with the car (2000 VWs only had a 25k warranty).However, the problems have been relatively minor, the biggest being a ECM bug.
The B5 Passat forum at <a href="http://www.vwvortex.com/" target="_blank">VW Vortex.com</a> are very informative - not quite Rennlist, but close
09-24-2002, 05:46 PM
#14
Burning Brakes
I have heard of owners complaining about reliability issues, but otherwise a good car for the money. The V-8 is way overpriced IMO.
Like a previous post said, A6's can be had for VERY reasonable prices.
Good luck.
Like a previous post said, A6's can be had for VERY reasonable prices.
Good luck.
09-24-2002, 06:06 PM
#15
Advanced
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: New York City
Posts: 91
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
[quote]Originally posted by Porsche5050:
<strong>I have heard of owners complaining about reliability issues, but otherwise a good car for the money. The V-8 is way overpriced IMO.
Like a previous post said, A6's can be had for VERY reasonable prices.
Good luck.</strong><hr></blockquote>
Name 1 German car in it's class that has a V8 (~270hp) and is sold in the US
it's only direct competition is the 540 and the E430 (the C class doesn't come with a v8 from what I know plus it's in a different size category) ... those are at least $10k more (granted it may be worth the difference) but no Passats can be billed as over priced in my book until BMW/MB can compete on the same price category
the W8 also comes with 4wd standard so that is quite a nice feature which neither of the other two have that make it a great year round car especially at 40,000$
sorry that's the VW/Audi Enthusiast showing <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />
<strong>I have heard of owners complaining about reliability issues, but otherwise a good car for the money. The V-8 is way overpriced IMO.
Like a previous post said, A6's can be had for VERY reasonable prices.
Good luck.</strong><hr></blockquote>
Name 1 German car in it's class that has a V8 (~270hp) and is sold in the US
it's only direct competition is the 540 and the E430 (the C class doesn't come with a v8 from what I know plus it's in a different size category) ... those are at least $10k more (granted it may be worth the difference) but no Passats can be billed as over priced in my book until BMW/MB can compete on the same price category
the W8 also comes with 4wd standard so that is quite a nice feature which neither of the other two have that make it a great year round car especially at 40,000$
sorry that's the VW/Audi Enthusiast showing <img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />