I know on early Audi A3's they had similar rust issues along the roof rails, caused by the trim rubbing and of course eventually rusting. So I'd pop them out and check for any other corrosion in there, if you plan on tackling the roof and want to do a thorough job.
Having owned 20 of these, I love them to bits. The front indicators are wrong on it, they should be clear, they are actually aftermarket, the ones on there look horrible! There will be more rust, pull the arch liners up usually there more hidden in there. And there's a hole at the front, if you prod around that drain bung, it was looking pretty crispy there. Roof gutter rust is also very very common. You need to pull out the gutter strips as the rust forms on the roof seam underneath as the water gets trapped in there. Sand back, repair, paint and fill the gutter with waxoyl (or similar) then put the gutter strips back in. Unfortunately earlier cars weren't protected well at all and suffered badly with it. Open the boot and pull the gutter strips out starting at the rear, do not start at the windscreen end. And yes that car was part of the New Beetle club, I recognise it. I'll try and get some more info. The flower isn't original either, they didn't come with flowers from the factory, you could buy a plush VW flower. And the silver spokes on the steering wheel unclip (prise them apart from the rear with a screwdriver, they are glued together but they won't break, dab of glue when you put them back together) and you can paint/wrap them. Most steering wheels are like that. Drop me a message there isn't much I haven't done with these, I can give you tips/tricks, etc.
Tempted to just say 3, but as a classic Beetle fan I have to say I am one of the few who also really likes the "new" Beetle. I will enjoy watching you work on it.
I had a manual 2.0 New Beetle as a company car many years ago. We had Primera GXE's prior to that, needless to say there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth amongst the team !! Have to say, mine was a blast, thoroughly enjoyed ripping around the countryside in it . . . Love the new subplot, can't wait to see how it comes along and what will be next too !! Cheers Matt, your channel is always a great watch !!
Matt, it looks a fine flipping car, which is the point. When I flip it is the profit that matters, not whether or not people like it, as long as there is someone out there who will want it. It may be a Marmite car, but that often means you have fanatics which can help with the sale. Good job! This is a case of the end destination being more than the journey.
Honestly, I wouldn’t have one, but I don’t hate it. The engine is the best one to have and it’ll be fascinating to see it’s revival. I don’t know much about these so looking forward to learn more.
I personally can't stand VW group products whether new or old, mostly because I had to work on them lol. However I'm watched every video you put out over the last 3 years and it's more or less the entertainment that ensues from you fixing (and failing) and driving cars, not the cars themselves.
I am waiting to see Matt's face when he discovers the V.A.G. tax on spares. "Hello sir, ah you want that small bit of plastic, certainly. we have that in stock. You can pick up today. The price ? its just £274564736352723744 plus VAT." or that's what it seemed like on my A4 Cabriolet 2.4 sport (Off to the crusher as valve stem seals have gone and exhaust flexy joints have snapped after welding them 3 years ago £3800 plus the dreaded quoted for a new exhaust 😮
@@lordbungle6235 I always like to compare what VW parts are compared to my old 30 year old Peugeot. Peugeot 306 water pump- €30 Mk.3 Golf water pump- €60 Peugeot 306 shocks- €20 BOTH MK.3 Golf shocks- €80 both Etc. It's ridiculous, and not compare how far behind VW was with comfort and quality. Compare a 1990 Mk.2 Golf and a 1990 Peugeot 205, the Golf seems like a 1960s car in comparison!
Always liked these. Of all the 90s and 00s retro styled cars, the Beetle, Mini, MK1 MX5 and Rover 75 are my favourites, and if ever I'm in the position to do it, they'd make a superb 4 car garage I'd love to have one day. Like the looks of the PT Cruiser too, but they're so horrible to drive and the build quality so woeful, that alas I'd have to pass on one of those. Same problems with the Fiat 500. Owned a couple of them when they were new, but never really bonded with them. Shame Citroen never did a modern take on the 2CV really, but more recently Renault did a cracking job on the mk3 Twingo, which in my eyes looks reminiscent of the original 5, and apparently they're great fun to bimble about in. Definite future purchase. I'm a sucker for a bit of retro.
Wow I have been so impatient waiting for this update on the new Beetle. I am in love with it plain and simple. I understand, though, that Beryl will be titivated as much as possible within your budget and moved on but now I realise that something even more interesting will come onto the Fleet temporarily like the Mouldeo and this lovely Beetle that took its place. Please be advised that I am not and never have been a Volkswagen fan except for the 1978 Volkswagen Devon 1600 Bay Window Camper Van, the 1976/77 Volkswagen Beetle and this New Beetle. This car was a genius move at its launch and remains so today. Those big doors are so awesome. Cant wait for the test drive with the cracked hose replaced and I am intrigued to see your choice of replacement wheel covers or alloys. The Furious Love Bug.
I’ve owned a 2003 beetle turbo (manual transmission (I’m American so that’s very uncommon), heated seats, and sunroof) for 8 years. Let me tell you this: do NOT talk bad about this car right in front of it. I swear these things can actually hear you and they will come at you with a vengeance.
yep I think ya got sumthin there🤔 I had a 2001 new beetle which I continued to drive until 2010. Haven't driven one since then but mine was automatic. Was car shopping with dad and he actually knew how to drive manual transmission. To think now that he could have taught me that but I just did not think to ask him😭. And he just asked me stuff like "ya want a sunroof?". Boy was I stupid then or what....
Any chance of more content if you just driving your cars around normally? I really enjoyed the Volvo drives to the supermarket during lockdown, would love to see the crown vic, alfa, and some rovers just on regular drives. And of course the new beetle.
I'm with you Matt I love beetles, new or air-cooled. The 1.9 tdi engine is like you said bullet proof so you have got a good one there. One downside to new Beetle ownership is the price of the road tax in the UK. I'm looking forward to seeing you sort this car out 👍😂👍
Hey Matt, I quite like cars with a bit of personality and something different! I didn’t like the new beetle when it came out but like the new Mini it’s grown on me(even if I do prefer the originals!) I think people are a bit suprised at what you swapped the Mondeo for, if you’d have swapped it for a Sierra, Cortina, or something similar people would have chomping at the bit to praise your deal and shower you with positive comments. Personally I quite like the car it’s quirky, and that dark blue colour is nice .
As a 53 reg yellow tdi beetle owner I approve this video. Mine has similar spec, a/c, heated seats, leccy mirrors, mine has fog lights though. I picked it up last may from Sheffield. I paid £700 for it. I hunted for a yellow tdi for months and months. Low mileage too, it had only done 110k (112 now). You find the pipe that goes into the egr work loose. There’s little nipples on the Alu connectors that wear down. I’ve tried 3 times to get the correct hose. I’ve given up and zip ties have held it in fine. I recommend doing Liqui moly diesel purge. I’ve a few videos on my channel of when I did mine. Happy motoring 🤙🏽🤙🏽
I do like the way VW made a modern beetle this is a very nice car grom the fact is there is very little rust compared with other cars on the fleet no welding and you have found a resson to get rid of it its slightly uncomfortable if you can't take it on a long drive well time to pass it on after a couple of small repairs done maybe other people will find it comfortable
I prefer the Mondeo to the Bettle, however the PD is a good solid engine. Definitely get some rust proofing such as Bilt Hamber Dynax under those plastic sills and arches.
A quality engine (provided it had a turbo) and I reckon the GT TDI 150 would have suited me well. But I got a 96 420d and it was dynoed at 130hp, same torque as the V6, would run on Asda veg oil (as per Top Gear) and looked great with alloys and an e-tech wing. RIP. O yeah, BH rules
1.9 TDI 105 bhp is enginecode BLS, isnt it? We have just that engine in a Skoda Octavia II and it is great. 15 yrs okd and never skips a beat as yet during 170000 km.
I like these, only reason I wouldn't have one is, I had an 02 Polo, lots of really silly and very expensive problems. It broke the bank long before the loan was paid off. Up until then I always found VW very reliable. It's as if they decided at some point that if you could afford a VW you could afford endless high-end repairs. Hopefully your Beetle is old enough to have had all the mad stuff sorted out :)
I had two original Beetles, my brother had one (followed by a VW Fastback 1600) then my sister had one, all as our first cars, my mum and dad thought they would be safe and good in a crash! I crashed mine 7 times (not proud of it) killed it by rolling in onto its roof on a dual carriageway, 😞 Good luck to you with your Beetle, looks like its a good’un. People who car shame, should just consider, you are doing us a service by telling us where to look for problems and fixing them, plus you have fun doing It.
Don't worry Matt, I quite like the new beetle, although I can't ever see myself owning one (where I am, if you're a grown man driving one of these, people are gonna consider you "a bit too frilly in the underwear department" - not that there's anything wrong with that). Looking forward to the project and what car/adventure it leads to next. Cheers!
If you’re trading cars it doesn’t matter whether you like it or not - can you make money on it is the only question. Sadly I would value the Mondeo higher than this so that’s the only reason I don’t think it was a good idea.
I LOVED my New Beetle. From the time I saw it in a magazine when launched I had to have one, and bought on as a parallel import from Holland in 2001. It was a 'double yellow' 1.6 petrol with lots of extras which all added up to less than a UK priced-car back then. Back then, the VW badge on the bottled was on a hinge and span round to access the opening handle. Very neat. I spec'd Montreal 16" alloys, winter pack, 6CD auto changer and split rear seat, plus the fancy colour and picked it up from the dockside at Harwich on Dutch import plates. Mine arrived a few months before there was a 1.8 which could be remapped nicely, but so what. After putting 60K miles on it I swapped it for something else and I still miss it. Yes, it has its limitations and I can't see it ever being a classic, but back then it was a head-turner.
@@Phiyedough Mine was a full UK spec right hand drive car. Laughably, even though I had it logged with VW UK for warranty etc, every time I took it for a service they said 'oh, that's the import isn't it?' and got sniffy with me. When I enquired about PX'ing it for another VW they said that because it was an import they couldn't offer me the same value! I pointed out that it was made on the same production line in Mexico as the one in the showroom and the build sheet showed it as full UK spec. Even my insurance company were dubious when I initially insured it and said 'you'll struggle to get parts' and tried to increase my premium. This was all part of a wider conspiracy to stop the public buying cheaper cars from abroad, and eventually UK pricing had to change and the parallel import market dwindled.Weird times.
Hey Matt! I think the trade up was cool… I’m a big fan of VW‘s, I’d love to see some original VW alloys on Beryl. Looking forward to your Bissel work and it’s buffing. Keep it coming!! 🙏
Looks like it's in pretty good condition. You've done alright I think 🙂 Not a Beetle fan but it should be flippable. I've had a couple of VW products; a woefully unreliable mk 2 Scirocco and my current car, a SEAT Toledo V5 which has been surprisingly good to own
I really love this cute little treasure, looking forward to more content on Beryl. With regard to the wheels, I fully agree, those trims look awful, the retro styled genuine OE wheel covers fitted by the factory always looked great on the ‘new style’ Beetle, I always thought. Not sure if they are still available, if they are it would keep the car factory original, something which an enthusiast would very much appreciate😊.
Already a decent result, very interested to see how it will unfold. Pretty nice example! I've owned 4 cars of this platform, and still own one for 15 years now (A3 8l 1.8T). Also worked professionally on these cars for years as a mechanic. Hardly see them anymore. If you need any advice on this car; just ask, happy to help. Know all the ins and outs of this platform.
These aren't everyone's cup of tea but I've owned one and I like them. Very smooth to drive. A set of BBS X spoke alloys and a 1" drop will do wonders for it. Just watch the sills for rust, usually the N/S.
I one of those not a fan however it's a trade up series so, I'm just glad the sills hadn't gone seemed a bit dicey for a min. Good polish smart wheels and the undercoat/paint sorted, hopefully you'll flip it quickly. If time allows, maybe a whole year series (finishing Dec this year) see how far you could go. You could then sell it to use the money on the fleet.
Nice car. I've always liked the new Beetle, but never owned one. If I did, I'd probably grow very fond of it! Looking forward to seeing how far you get with the "I swapped a paperclip" project!
That roof rust repair probably needs the seaing strip removing if possible... that's most likely the start of the rust and paint breakdown.. The underseal failure needs addressing properly but as you say has been caught in time, probably an area wherw damp gathers and creeps behind the underseal and along.
As these are mostly Golf IV underneath, I suspect the inner wall tyre wear is inner control arm bush related (especially being the diesel). From personal experience, the clutch pedal can fall apart like the bonnet pull has Matt, and that's a pain to fix
Watched a few of your videos now and I love the honesty and genuine enthusiasm 😊 The Beetle you have picked up doesn't look too bad at all and the 1.9TDI PD engine is an excellent block. Good luck
Not a huge VW fan, never owned a actual VW but have its VAG cousin the Skoda, I really like this shade of blue when it's cleaned up, as that's what I will be doing on mine tomorrow hopefully. Through as a step into VW ownership then the beetle would be the perfect choice.
Suggest Hydrate 80 after rubbing down the roof. 2 coats then if you need a good filler Dolphin glaze self levelling works well on flat and slightly curved panels.
Can’t believe all the hate for the beetle we’ve had ours for 4 years we love it We have a 2013 with 55000 mile with a 2.5 liter petrol w/ 5speed its ten and we plan on keeping it til it’s done.
Never been a fan of any Beetle (although think the last one looked a bit better), but I appreciate the unusual design of this one, and its clearly has influences on the original, and of course was one of the first retro-styled cars which inspired others (which were more successful). I think it's biggest problem was the Golf - this was just a less practical Golf, which meant it was sold purely on its styling, whereas cars like the Mini and 500 were unchallenged by their own manufacturer (well, there was the panda, but that was 5dr and a bit more utilitarian), whilst being in segments popular with those who valued style over practicality.
You need to get a quick-release short trigger gun for the jet wash. Makes clean the car, especially under the arches etc loads easier. Ps. Not a Beetle fan....
Not saying it’s a bad car Matt, but just haven’t got the enthusiasm for it that the Mondy gave us! Tbh, I feel you’ve traded down and not up given the Monday’s increasing collectibility!
As you know Matt I am a bit of a Mondeo fan, having said that I did look at a "new" Beetle as an option a few years ago. OK it was an RSi replica 😃 3.2 V6 in a beetle did tick my "That will be fun " box.
Clever choice, If not the most popular, in my opinion. Looking forward to see the transformation of what is possibly a very affordable future classic. I also can't stop looking at a 2.3 v5 one for under £3k . I know i shouldn't but...
You have done a great job Matt, awesome engine in it to be fair. I still can’t feel any love for the new Beetle sadly - they are too gimmicky for me… but I can see the merits of it and how you are improving it really well! I’m enjoying these restos so keep it up! I also find that snow foam works better when it’s runnier too! Great stuff lol
You can easily install cruise control in this car since you are searching for a new steering wheel. A new switch ( the one for the blinkers and for the high beams) and programming. You will really add value to this car!
I like your Bug... Cool little car. They're not very practical, but fine if you're not carrying too much... I think you've the best colour here... Too many have "loud" colours, which in my opinion, spoil them...
Your bonnet pull is just missing a clip which creates a wedge to hold it in place just a piece of black plastic. My wife's beetle (Rosie) has the same roof area rust. As for steering wheel I changed my wife's for a original leather one for a bargain £30 inc airbag. The plastic ones often wear out as most are at least 15 years old. It's not the sill that goes it's actually what I'd call sill cover or side skirt unfortunately mot centres call them sills. They fill with water and rot from inside out. Go for some moon hubcaps or retro fit chrome vw centres. Seats you can fit mk4 golf gti seats in the front and some have very similar pattern to the grey black of beetles.
I think your going to have an issue with the drivers door..It looks more than surface rust and sanding and painting and blending this,the other door and the roof wont be the easiest job ..Good luck 👍Maybe trade it for a cheap classic
Did my driving test in a 1968 Beetle, thought it was a great car. I also love the new Beetle, it really captured the essence of the old. What's not to like? Thinks? the daft flower thing!
If the foam on the steering wheel is still OK you could consider having it recovered with leather. There are specialist shops that offer that service. A leather steering wheel always feels nicer then any plastic.
Well done Matt a great video and it looks a lovely beetle and with that PD engine and the golf mk4 chassis it will do really well those engines can go on forever with proper maintenance Looking forward to seeing it get better and better with your TLC! I was always a fan of the new beetle especially the convertible and love the name of beryl!
It's a brilliant little car. Not everyone's taste. Super cute looking and built on the excellent Golf Mk4 chassis. Those 1.9Tdi motors are legendary. Love it!😃👌
Why is the Golf 4 chassis excellent? It's a regular FWD layout, with a regular susupention. Good thing is they don't rust much, but that's about it. The engine can be reliable, but it's peripherials (turbo, injectors, EGR, high pressure pump) usually fail first on well used cars. Objectively speaking, this is a Golf 4 with different body panels and dashboard.
@Бранимир Петров The amount of Golf Mk4s still on the road is testament to their build quality. The platform was a big step up from the Mk3 in my opinion. The Beetle is basically a Golf in different clothes...as you said. Any car that is well maintained can stand the test of time. I have a 2004 Golf Mk4 Gti limited edition with 220 000 kms on the original motor. Only changed the cambelt and waterpump....1 new battery, brake pads and tyres....otherwise completely original...drives like a dream.....and as you say...no rust at all.
@@jeremyjames1972 Well, the 1.8T is the far better motor than the TDI imo, they just have a oil orinking habit. However, not all cars tend to be like yours. My close friend have a A3 1.8T 150hp, which is almost identical to the GTI. There isn't a single component besides the chassis and the engine that haven't got replaced.
@Бранимир Петров I have the 1.8 T and its been excellent as I mentioned. Your friend maybe just had a dud....it happens. Mine also doesn't "drink" any oil between services ....that said...While Volkswagen has produced many very good diesel engines over the years, the “ALH” engine used between 1998 and 2006 is regarded as one of the best. 😉
@@jeremyjames1972 I agree. As we know, every car cam be relaible, as long as it's maintained properly, and most of these were maintained like a W123 200D
You'll get those who don't like it sure, can't please everyone. Though i think it's an alright little one the "New" beetle here is, having that 1.9 diesel makes it a bit better there too, as people have said they go forever. Only thing not that good with yours is those wheeltrims, they'd need to go like you'd said in the first video. But yes, do think it's a good little one here, will be a good little series you'll be doing on it, cleaning it up & getting it sold or flipped for something else.
Love it, I've been looking at these as a next car, I'm currently driving a 2003 MG ZT-T but want something completely different and think this would be a great fun car. Looking forward to the next videos. Take care. Matt.
Interesting to see what you can get in exchange for the bug be it cash or a new motor. Shame the Mondeo went - so good to see a mk2 again. That was a very nice car.
I too am one of those not too fond of the new beetle-people. It always came across to me like a somewhat rudimentary toy-beetle of which Volkswagen made a scale 1/1-version of it. What doesn't help is that I still remember the very long buzz Volkswagen created preceding its launch in 1998 and then priced it way too high for its own good. They seem to be making some of the same mistakes with the ID buzz now. All that being said and more objectively speaking, it seems you've done a very good deal, if you look at the condition of the car.
I've noticed you like replacing tyres on almost every new arrival in your fleet, Matt! Don't quite get the Beetle hate. Surely you got a much better swap from that Mondeo (which was very much improved, I might add).
matt end of the day IT'S YOUR CAR! if people don't like it they don't have to watch! Me personally am not a fan of Volkswagens, but thats personal choice. wouldn't stop me watching videos of beryl. there was a saying Justin Bieber once said... haters are just confused admirers.
New Beetles aren't really my kind of thing but it appears you have an undeniably good example there and I don't think you'll have a problem moving it on when the time comes. Not being messed around by an immobiliser is another definite plus!
I've always been a massive fan of the old air cooled beetles (my Nan had several when I was little) so when those first came out I was horrified and swore they weren't beetles, they were toy cars made real and I would never want one. They've grown on me somewhat since then. I'd still rather have the model that came after it though. I much prefer the proportions of those ones.
kent paints is a brill co. for getting car paint mixed , even myself has used them for car paint for me honda jazz. brill . all of those beetles rust in the end just like the very old ones did in same places.
Get a new steeringwheel before aligning the front, let the same guys switch it to make sure it is set at the right angle!? Also, if you switch the steeringwheel by your self, remove the battery a long time (hours) before handling the airbag!
Me and my Sister were born in 1979 and my Dad had one. Apparently we stoved the roof in years later when jumping up and down on the roof and crushed my Dads beetle. Can't remember doing it but Dad said it was white. No idea what he did with it. He had many cars. Mini Cooper S, heavily modded in the 60's. Datsun 120Y, Renault 18GTS, Fiat 131 Mirafiori. Early 90's the Renault. Mk1 Golf GTI. Drove it like he stole it! It had been modified. Did 90mph in third gear. Rover 800 vitesse in green. Later life Pug 405/406 diesel. Only car he regretted selling was a Citroen bug eye DS.
They’re not bad motors Matt but they are well in the banger category, so I think you might of got the raw end of the deal….Also you need binoculars to see out the screen as you sit so far back…, I’ve had a couple and being a Mk4 golf in a pretty dress makes them cheap for parts and quite reliable , but the interior plastics and switches etc aren’t quite Golf MkIV Standard. I don’t know if you got the better deal though as they’re normally quite cheap unless it’s something special like the V5 or 1.8 turbo but a diesel PD is bulletproof. My Mrs still has a minty convertible example and paid £500 for it 3 years ago and it’s completely rot free but it’s worth pulling the wing liners back and clearing out the mud occasionally to keep the sill ends good.
Not a fan of the old or new Beetle, but it's good to see such a varied array of vehicles. It'll be good to see how easy the flip is!
I know on early Audi A3's they had similar rust issues along the roof rails, caused by the trim rubbing and of course eventually rusting. So I'd pop them out and check for any other corrosion in there, if you plan on tackling the roof and want to do a thorough job.
Feel you had the bad end of the deal with this one, interested to see the process though always a good watch
Having owned 20 of these, I love them to bits.
The front indicators are wrong on it, they should be clear, they are actually aftermarket, the ones on there look horrible!
There will be more rust, pull the arch liners up usually there more hidden in there. And there's a hole at the front, if you prod around that drain bung, it was looking pretty crispy there.
Roof gutter rust is also very very common. You need to pull out the gutter strips as the rust forms on the roof seam underneath as the water gets trapped in there. Sand back, repair, paint and fill the gutter with waxoyl (or similar) then put the gutter strips back in. Unfortunately earlier cars weren't protected well at all and suffered badly with it. Open the boot and pull the gutter strips out starting at the rear, do not start at the windscreen end.
And yes that car was part of the New Beetle club, I recognise it. I'll try and get some more info.
The flower isn't original either, they didn't come with flowers from the factory, you could buy a plush VW flower.
And the silver spokes on the steering wheel unclip (prise them apart from the rear with a screwdriver, they are glued together but they won't break, dab of glue when you put them back together) and you can paint/wrap them. Most steering wheels are like that.
Drop me a message there isn't much I haven't done with these, I can give you tips/tricks, etc.
Tempted to just say 3, but as a classic Beetle fan I have to say I am one of the few who also really likes the "new" Beetle. I will enjoy watching you work on it.
It's a beautiful car. All in proportion.
I had a manual 2.0 New Beetle as a company car many years ago. We had Primera GXE's prior to that, needless to say there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth amongst the team !! Have to say, mine was a blast, thoroughly enjoyed ripping around the countryside in it . . . Love the new subplot, can't wait to see how it comes along and what will be next too !! Cheers Matt, your channel is always a great watch !!
Matt, it looks a fine flipping car, which is the point. When I flip it is the profit that matters, not whether or not people like it, as long as there is someone out there who will want it. It may be a Marmite car, but that often means you have fanatics which can help with the sale. Good job! This is a case of the end destination being more than the journey.
Good on you! An overlooked modern classic that in time people will be gutted they didn’t buy one.
Honestly, I wouldn’t have one, but I don’t hate it. The engine is the best one to have and it’ll be fascinating to see it’s revival. I don’t know much about these so looking forward to learn more.
I personally can't stand VW group products whether new or old, mostly because I had to work on them lol.
However I'm watched every video you put out over the last 3 years and it's more or less the entertainment that ensues from you fixing (and failing) and driving cars, not the cars themselves.
I am waiting to see Matt's face when he discovers the V.A.G. tax on spares. "Hello sir, ah you want that small bit of plastic, certainly. we have that in stock. You can pick up today. The price ? its just £274564736352723744 plus VAT." or that's what it seemed like on my A4 Cabriolet 2.4 sport (Off to the crusher as valve stem seals have gone and exhaust flexy joints have snapped after welding them 3 years ago £3800 plus the dreaded quoted for a new exhaust 😮
@@lordbungle6235 I always like to compare what VW parts are compared to my old 30 year old Peugeot.
Peugeot 306 water pump- €30
Mk.3 Golf water pump- €60
Peugeot 306 shocks- €20 BOTH
MK.3 Golf shocks- €80 both
Etc. It's ridiculous, and not compare how far behind VW was with comfort and quality. Compare a 1990 Mk.2 Golf and a 1990 Peugeot 205, the Golf seems like a 1960s car in comparison!
Always liked these. Of all the 90s and 00s retro styled cars, the Beetle, Mini, MK1 MX5 and Rover 75 are my favourites, and if ever I'm in the position to do it, they'd make a superb 4 car garage I'd love to have one day. Like the looks of the PT Cruiser too, but they're so horrible to drive and the build quality so woeful, that alas I'd have to pass on one of those. Same problems with the Fiat 500. Owned a couple of them when they were new, but never really bonded with them. Shame Citroen never did a modern take on the 2CV really, but more recently Renault did a cracking job on the mk3 Twingo, which in my eyes looks reminiscent of the original 5, and apparently they're great fun to bimble about in. Definite future purchase. I'm a sucker for a bit of retro.
All it needs it’s some headlight lashes and a ‘No Smoke No Poke’ sticker and you’re a bonafide VTroubleU owner
Wow I have been so impatient waiting for this update on the new Beetle.
I am in love with it plain and simple.
I understand, though, that Beryl will be titivated as much as possible within your budget and moved on but now I realise that something even more interesting will come onto the Fleet temporarily like the Mouldeo and this lovely Beetle that took its place.
Please be advised that I am not and never have been a Volkswagen fan except for the 1978 Volkswagen Devon 1600 Bay Window Camper Van, the 1976/77 Volkswagen Beetle and this New Beetle. This car was a genius move at its launch and remains so today. Those big doors are so awesome.
Cant wait for the test drive with the cracked hose replaced and I am intrigued to see your choice of replacement wheel covers or alloys.
The Furious Love Bug.
I bought a 2004 convertible, fixed the hood and one or two other issues, sold it for considerably more, they are good solid cars
I’ve owned a 2003 beetle turbo (manual transmission (I’m American so that’s very uncommon), heated seats, and sunroof) for 8 years. Let me tell you this: do NOT talk bad about this car right in front of it. I swear these things can actually hear you and they will come at you with a vengeance.
yep I think ya got sumthin there🤔 I had a 2001 new beetle which I continued to drive until 2010. Haven't driven one since then but mine was automatic. Was car shopping with dad and he actually knew how to drive manual transmission. To think now that he could have taught me that but I just did not think to ask him😭. And he just asked me stuff like "ya want a sunroof?". Boy was I stupid then or what....
Looks like it has rusted through around the rubber/plastic plug in the sill at 17:30.
I had one of these. Loved it to bits and I could get tons of stuff in the back. Plus the dinner table in front was very handy. I miss mine.
Any chance of more content if you just driving your cars around normally? I really enjoyed the Volvo drives to the supermarket during lockdown, would love to see the crown vic, alfa, and some rovers just on regular drives. And of course the new beetle.
I'm with you Matt I love beetles, new or air-cooled. The 1.9 tdi engine is like you said bullet proof so you have got a good one there. One downside to new Beetle ownership is the price of the road tax in the UK. I'm looking forward to seeing you sort this car out 👍😂👍
Hey Matt, I quite like cars with a bit of personality and something different!
I didn’t like the new beetle when it came out but like the new Mini it’s grown on me(even if I do prefer the originals!)
I think people are a bit suprised at what you swapped the Mondeo for, if you’d have swapped it for a Sierra, Cortina, or something similar people would have chomping at the bit to praise your deal and shower you with positive comments.
Personally I quite like the car it’s quirky, and that dark blue colour is nice .
As a 53 reg yellow tdi beetle owner I approve this video. Mine has similar spec, a/c, heated seats, leccy mirrors, mine has fog lights though.
I picked it up last may from Sheffield. I paid £700 for it. I hunted for a yellow tdi for months and months.
Low mileage too, it had only done 110k (112 now).
You find the pipe that goes into the egr work loose. There’s little nipples on the Alu connectors that wear down. I’ve tried 3 times to get the correct hose. I’ve given up and zip ties have held it in fine. I recommend doing Liqui moly diesel purge. I’ve a few videos on my channel of when I did mine.
Happy motoring 🤙🏽🤙🏽
I do like the way VW made a modern beetle this is a very nice car grom the fact is there is very little rust compared with other cars on the fleet no welding and you have found a resson to get rid of it its slightly uncomfortable if you can't take it on a long drive well time to pass it on after a couple of small repairs done maybe other people will find it comfortable
I prefer the Mondeo to the Bettle, however the PD is a good solid engine. Definitely get some rust proofing such as Bilt Hamber Dynax under those plastic sills and arches.
A quality engine (provided it had a turbo) and I reckon the GT TDI 150 would have suited me well. But I got a 96 420d and it was dynoed at 130hp, same torque as the V6, would run on Asda veg oil (as per Top Gear) and looked great with alloys and an e-tech wing. RIP. O yeah, BH rules
1.9 TDI 105 bhp is enginecode BLS, isnt it? We have just that engine in a Skoda Octavia II and it is great. 15 yrs okd and never skips a beat as yet during 170000 km.
Yes that’s correct marco
I like these, only reason I wouldn't have one is, I had an 02 Polo, lots of really silly and very expensive problems. It broke the bank long before the loan was paid off. Up until then I always found VW very reliable. It's as if they decided at some point that if you could afford a VW you could afford endless high-end repairs. Hopefully your Beetle is old enough to have had all the mad stuff sorted out :)
I had two original Beetles, my brother had one (followed by a VW Fastback 1600) then my sister had one, all as our first cars, my mum and dad thought they would be safe and good in a crash! I crashed mine 7 times (not proud of it) killed it by rolling in onto its roof on a dual carriageway, 😞
Good luck to you with your Beetle, looks like its a good’un. People who car shame, should just consider, you are doing us a service by telling us where to look for problems and fixing them, plus you have fun doing It.
Don't worry Matt, I quite like the new beetle, although I can't ever see myself owning one (where I am, if you're a grown man driving one of these, people are gonna consider you "a bit too frilly in the underwear department" - not that there's anything wrong with that). Looking forward to the project and what car/adventure it leads to next. Cheers!
If you’re trading cars it doesn’t matter whether you like it or not - can you make money on it is the only question. Sadly I would value the Mondeo higher than this so that’s the only reason I don’t think it was a good idea.
I LOVED my New Beetle. From the time I saw it in a magazine when launched I had to have one, and bought on as a parallel import from Holland in 2001. It was a 'double yellow' 1.6 petrol with lots of extras which all added up to less than a UK priced-car back then. Back then, the VW badge on the bottled was on a hinge and span round to access the opening handle. Very neat. I spec'd Montreal 16" alloys, winter pack, 6CD auto changer and split rear seat, plus the fancy colour and picked it up from the dockside at Harwich on Dutch import plates. Mine arrived a few months before there was a 1.8 which could be remapped nicely, but so what. After putting 60K miles on it I swapped it for something else and I still miss it. Yes, it has its limitations and I can't see it ever being a classic, but back then it was a head-turner.
I noticed there seem to be quite a few left hand drive ones in UK.
1.9 TDI one of the best VW engine's ever made the worst has got to be the 1.4 16v. Which was of the same era
@@Phiyedough Mine was a full UK spec right hand drive car. Laughably, even though I had it logged with VW UK for warranty etc, every time I took it for a service they said 'oh, that's the import isn't it?' and got sniffy with me. When I enquired about PX'ing it for another VW they said that because it was an import they couldn't offer me the same value! I pointed out that it was made on the same production line in Mexico as the one in the showroom and the build sheet showed it as full UK spec. Even my insurance company were dubious when I initially insured it and said 'you'll struggle to get parts' and tried to increase my premium. This was all part of a wider conspiracy to stop the public buying cheaper cars from abroad, and eventually UK pricing had to change and the parallel import market dwindled.Weird times.
We’ve owned from new a 2003 Beetle V5 sport. Now 20 years old, it runs as good as the day we got it. Sounds like a beast and is much admired.
Hey Matt! I think the trade up was cool… I’m a big fan of VW‘s, I’d love to see some original VW alloys on Beryl. Looking forward to your Bissel work and it’s buffing. Keep it coming!! 🙏
Looks like it's in pretty good condition. You've done alright I think 🙂 Not a Beetle fan but it should be flippable. I've had a couple of VW products; a woefully unreliable mk 2 Scirocco and my current car, a SEAT Toledo V5 which has been surprisingly good to own
I really love this cute little treasure, looking forward to more content on Beryl.
With regard to the wheels, I fully agree, those trims look awful, the retro styled genuine OE wheel covers fitted by the factory always looked great on the ‘new style’ Beetle, I always thought.
Not sure if they are still available, if they are it would keep the car factory original, something which an enthusiast would very much appreciate😊.
Already a decent result, very interested to see how it will unfold. Pretty nice example! I've owned 4 cars of this platform, and still own one for 15 years now (A3 8l 1.8T). Also worked professionally on these cars for years as a mechanic. Hardly see them anymore. If you need any advice on this car; just ask, happy to help. Know all the ins and outs of this platform.
I don't think you will touch the Ford Mondeo views with this one Matt.
These aren't everyone's cup of tea but I've owned one and I like them. Very smooth to drive. A set of BBS X spoke alloys and a 1" drop will do wonders for it. Just watch the sills for rust, usually the N/S.
I one of those not a fan however it's a trade up series so, I'm just glad the sills hadn't gone seemed a bit dicey for a min. Good polish smart wheels and the undercoat/paint sorted, hopefully you'll flip it quickly.
If time allows, maybe a whole year series (finishing Dec this year) see how far you could go. You could then sell it to use the money on the fleet.
Nice car. I've always liked the new Beetle, but never owned one. If I did, I'd probably grow very fond of it! Looking forward to seeing how far you get with the "I swapped a paperclip" project!
That roof rust repair probably needs the seaing strip removing if possible... that's most likely the start of the rust and paint breakdown..
The underseal failure needs addressing properly but as you say has been caught in time, probably an area wherw damp gathers and creeps behind the underseal and along.
As these are mostly Golf IV underneath, I suspect the inner wall tyre wear is inner control arm bush related (especially being the diesel). From personal experience, the clutch pedal can fall apart like the bonnet pull has Matt, and that's a pain to fix
I have those same rust issues in PA with my 1999 beetle but I still love it
My parents had so many of the 1960s VW Beetle when I was younger growing up and I miss them I have a huge collection of them in my room.
Watched a few of your videos now and I love the honesty and genuine enthusiasm 😊
The Beetle you have picked up doesn't look too bad at all and the 1.9TDI PD engine is an excellent block.
Good luck
Thanks!
I think it's a keeper.
Lovely car far better than that drab Mondeo.
IIRC, the 105 PS is identical to the 130 - just a slight software tweak is required....
Not a huge VW fan, never owned a actual VW but have its VAG cousin the Skoda, I really like this shade of blue when it's cleaned up, as that's what I will be doing on mine tomorrow hopefully. Through as a step into VW ownership then the beetle would be the perfect choice.
Suggest Hydrate 80 after rubbing down the roof. 2 coats then if you need a good filler Dolphin glaze self levelling works well on flat and slightly curved panels.
Love that design of Beetle, but was (perhaps oddly) never fussed on the old version.
Looking forward to see what you do with it!
Can’t believe all the hate for the beetle we’ve had ours for 4 years we love it We have a 2013 with 55000 mile with a 2.5 liter petrol w/ 5speed its ten and we plan on keeping it til it’s done.
Stumbled on this channel the other night
Now spent everynight going through your videos
Keep up the good work what a channel 👌🏻👌🏻
Welcome aboard and thanks for watching!
Never been a fan of any Beetle (although think the last one looked a bit better), but I appreciate the unusual design of this one, and its clearly has influences on the original, and of course was one of the first retro-styled cars which inspired others (which were more successful). I think it's biggest problem was the Golf - this was just a less practical Golf, which meant it was sold purely on its styling, whereas cars like the Mini and 500 were unchallenged by their own manufacturer (well, there was the panda, but that was 5dr and a bit more utilitarian), whilst being in segments popular with those who valued style over practicality.
Why on earth would anyone get upset at someone else's choice of vehicle? Some people seem bent on being angry at absolutely anything...
You need to get a quick-release short trigger gun for the jet wash. Makes clean the car, especially under the arches etc loads easier.
Ps. Not a Beetle fan....
Have to say I wouldn’t say it’s in great condition. Rusty roof rails and doors. Rusty sills.
Anyway I’m sure it will make some good content.
Its almost 18 years old now. So I am not shocked. But then I own 30+ years old fords so used to rust 🤣
Although I have never been much of a Beetle fan (old or new) it should still make an interesting project and if Mrs F likes it too then go for it!
Not saying it’s a bad car Matt, but just haven’t got the enthusiasm for it that the Mondy gave us! Tbh, I feel you’ve traded down and not up given the Monday’s increasing collectibility!
Aaaarrrgggghhhhh!!!! Please don't go down the Hubnut route of naming your cars.
This was already named!
They're his cars to name or number as he pleases... as long as he doesn't go fiddling with the reg plate or the VIN lol.
I love it...I've always been an air-cooled fan but also like these...I've even got the brochure from the launch somewhere in my collection.
As you know Matt I am a bit of a Mondeo fan, having said that I did look at a "new" Beetle as an option a few years ago. OK it was an RSi replica 😃 3.2 V6 in a beetle did tick my "That will be fun " box.
That Beetle is the coolest car on your fleet, I love it. Tomcat and Alfa close 2nd and 3rd. Looking forward to future videos 😊
Clever choice, If not the most popular, in my opinion. Looking forward to see the transformation of what is possibly a very affordable future classic. I also can't stop looking at a 2.3 v5 one for under £3k . I know i shouldn't but...
You have done a great job Matt, awesome engine in it to be fair. I still can’t feel any love for the new Beetle sadly - they are too gimmicky for me… but I can see the merits of it and how you are improving it really well! I’m enjoying these restos so keep it up! I also find that snow foam works better when it’s runnier too! Great stuff lol
You can easily install cruise control in this car since you are searching for a new steering wheel. A new switch ( the one for the blinkers and for the high beams) and programming. You will really add value to this car!
I like your Bug... Cool little car. They're not very practical, but fine if you're not carrying too much...
I think you've the best colour here... Too many have "loud" colours, which in my opinion, spoil them...
Your bonnet pull is just missing a clip which creates a wedge to hold it in place just a piece of black plastic. My wife's beetle (Rosie) has the same roof area rust. As for steering wheel I changed my wife's for a original leather one for a bargain £30 inc airbag. The plastic ones often wear out as most are at least 15 years old.
It's not the sill that goes it's actually what I'd call sill cover or side skirt unfortunately mot centres call them sills. They fill with water and rot from inside out.
Go for some moon hubcaps or retro fit chrome vw centres.
Seats you can fit mk4 golf gti seats in the front and some have very similar pattern to the grey black of beetles.
I think your going to have an issue with the drivers door..It looks more than surface rust and sanding and painting and blending this,the other door and the roof wont be the easiest job ..Good luck 👍Maybe trade it for a cheap classic
I like it. check under those plastic covers for rust though underneath
Did my driving test in a 1968 Beetle, thought it was a great car. I also love the new Beetle, it really captured the essence of the old. What's not to like? Thinks? the daft flower thing!
If the foam on the steering wheel is still OK you could consider having it recovered with leather. There are specialist shops that offer that service. A leather steering wheel always feels nicer then any plastic.
Well done Matt a great video and it looks a lovely beetle and with that PD engine and the golf mk4 chassis it will do really well those engines can go on forever with proper maintenance
Looking forward to seeing it get better and better with your TLC!
I was always a fan of the new beetle especially the convertible and love the name of beryl!
It's a brilliant little car. Not everyone's taste. Super cute looking and built on the excellent Golf Mk4 chassis. Those 1.9Tdi motors are legendary. Love it!😃👌
Why is the Golf 4 chassis excellent? It's a regular FWD layout, with a regular susupention. Good thing is they don't rust much, but that's about it. The engine can be reliable, but it's peripherials (turbo, injectors, EGR, high pressure pump) usually fail first on well used cars. Objectively speaking, this is a Golf 4 with different body panels and dashboard.
@Бранимир Петров The amount of Golf Mk4s still on the road is testament to their build quality. The platform was a big step up from the Mk3 in my opinion. The Beetle is basically a Golf in different clothes...as you said. Any car that is well maintained can stand the test of time. I have a 2004 Golf Mk4 Gti limited edition with 220 000 kms on the original motor. Only changed the cambelt and waterpump....1 new battery, brake pads and tyres....otherwise completely original...drives like a dream.....and as you say...no rust at all.
@@jeremyjames1972 Well, the 1.8T is the far better motor than the TDI imo, they just have a oil orinking habit. However, not all cars tend to be like yours. My close friend have a A3 1.8T 150hp, which is almost identical to the GTI. There isn't a single component besides the chassis and the engine that haven't got replaced.
@Бранимир Петров I have the 1.8 T and its been excellent as I mentioned. Your friend maybe just had a dud....it happens. Mine also doesn't "drink" any oil between services
....that said...While Volkswagen has produced many very good diesel engines over the years, the “ALH” engine used between 1998 and 2006 is regarded as one of the best. 😉
@@jeremyjames1972 I agree. As we know, every car cam be relaible, as long as it's maintained properly, and most of these were maintained like a W123 200D
You'll get those who don't like it sure, can't please everyone. Though i think it's an alright little one the "New" beetle here is, having that 1.9 diesel makes it a bit better there too, as people have said they go forever. Only thing not that good with yours is those wheeltrims, they'd need to go like you'd said in the first video. But yes, do think it's a good little one here, will be a good little series you'll be doing on it, cleaning it up & getting it sold or flipped for something else.
At 17:32, is the sill ok at the bottom of that grommet?
Looks ok just surface
Ive had 2 of these, make sure you check the sills as they can hide a multitude of rot and filler
Having owned a couple of original Beetles in the past I must admit I quite like Beryl.👍
I used to have a VW Passat 1.9TDI 130bhp SE 4motion 03 I loved that car kept it for nearly 6years.
I’d recommend genuine wipers as the passenger side is supposed to have a curved blade 👍🏻
Love it, I've been looking at these as a next car, I'm currently driving a 2003 MG ZT-T but want something completely different and think this would be a great fun car. Looking forward to the next videos.
Take care.
Matt.
Oh my god it’s beetle so cute I have got few old beetles big fan of beetle looking forward to more from your beetle
Interesting to see what you can get in exchange for the bug be it cash or a new motor. Shame the Mondeo went - so good to see a mk2 again. That was a very nice car.
I remember when the “new beetle” came out, i was only a child…i loved it, would love a yellow one lol
I reluctantly borrowed one of these beetles for a camping trip last year, it turned out to be a good little car.
Ahem ...does the flower have a spare parts number I wonder? 😄
I too am one of those not too fond of the new beetle-people. It always came across to me like a somewhat rudimentary toy-beetle of which Volkswagen made a scale 1/1-version of it. What doesn't help is that I still remember the very long buzz Volkswagen created preceding its launch in 1998 and then priced it way too high for its own good. They seem to be making some of the same mistakes with the ID buzz now. All that being said and more objectively speaking, it seems you've done a very good deal, if you look at the condition of the car.
Blue back-lit dials where a vw thing on the late 90s early 2000 as I had a golf plus of around the same age as this and that was as well
I've noticed you like replacing tyres on almost every new arrival in your fleet, Matt! Don't quite get the Beetle hate. Surely you got a much better swap from that Mondeo (which was very much improved, I might add).
A new set of reg plates will help lift that paintwork
Looks like a cracking purchase 👍
matt end of the day IT'S YOUR CAR! if people don't like it they don't have to watch! Me personally am not a fan of Volkswagens, but thats personal choice. wouldn't stop me watching videos of beryl. there was a saying Justin Bieber once said... haters are just confused admirers.
New Beetles aren't really my kind of thing but it appears you have an undeniably good example there and I don't think you'll have a problem moving it on when the time comes. Not being messed around by an immobiliser is another definite plus!
I've always been a massive fan of the old air cooled beetles (my Nan had several when I was little) so when those first came out I was horrified and swore they weren't beetles, they were toy cars made real and I would never want one. They've grown on me somewhat since then. I'd still rather have the model that came after it though. I much prefer the proportions of those ones.
kent paints is a brill co. for getting car paint mixed , even myself has used them for car paint for me honda jazz. brill . all of those beetles rust in the end just like the very old ones did in same places.
I think salvage rebuild uk use Kent paints & speak highly of them 👍🏻
ok brill
The only thing about the beetle (MK4 golf in a frock, like the TT) I liked was the adverts in Canada (internet and print)...... Turbonium
Good engine
It has the base model interior of the 1.6 (my country) without the numbers upholstery. But someone has added a few options and it looks good.
Hope the hubcap's turn up this time after you order them!!
Get a new steeringwheel before aligning the front, let the same guys switch it to make sure it is set at the right angle!? Also, if you switch the steeringwheel by your self, remove the battery a long time (hours) before handling the airbag!
Glad that it's not a lemon. Nice project, lots of possibilities!
Me and my Sister were born in 1979 and my Dad had one. Apparently we stoved the roof in years later when jumping up and down on the roof and crushed my Dads beetle. Can't remember doing it but Dad said it was white. No idea what he did with it. He had many cars. Mini Cooper S, heavily modded in the 60's. Datsun 120Y, Renault 18GTS, Fiat 131 Mirafiori. Early 90's the Renault. Mk1 Golf GTI. Drove it like he stole it! It had been modified. Did 90mph in third gear. Rover 800 vitesse in green. Later life Pug 405/406 diesel. Only car he regretted selling was a Citroen bug eye DS.
Those VW PD lumps are bombproof. I have the 1.4 3 pot version in my Audi A2. Keep them maintained and they go forever.
They’re not bad motors Matt but they are well in the banger category, so I think you might of got the raw end of the deal….Also you need binoculars to see out the screen as you sit so far back…, I’ve had a couple and being a Mk4 golf in a pretty dress makes them cheap for parts and quite reliable , but the interior plastics and switches etc aren’t quite Golf MkIV Standard.
I don’t know if you got the better deal though as they’re normally quite cheap unless it’s something special like the V5 or 1.8 turbo but a diesel PD is bulletproof.
My Mrs still has a minty convertible example and paid £500 for it 3 years ago and it’s completely rot free but it’s worth pulling the wing liners back and clearing out the mud occasionally to keep the sill ends good.
I like that Beetle Matt , especially in that shade of navy blue