Could be about to join you mk4 owners.............at last.

[richandhazel]

Hazels car is going to cost to much to put right and frankly, its not worth the time and effort. So I'm giving her the Polo GT once I have purchased a new car.

Haven't got too much to spend (bloody Christmas, bah humbug), probably £5000 max.
Very keen (as mentioned before) on a TDI. Been looking at specs and prices. Obviously I would love a 150 GT TDI but the budget won't permit. If I'm really lucky I may find a 130, but I think, realistically I'm looking at a 115 or lower.

Just wondered what everyone thoughts are, anything in particular I should look for. Probably not the best time of year to be looking so maybe I should leave it a month or 2 and wait until more cars are up for sale..........maybe more likely to pick up a 130. Reading the reviews it looks like it would be a good idea to try and hold out for a 6 speed one..........but for less than £5000

[GazB]

I'd have thought that a 130/150 is a bit optomistic for 5k, but fingers crossed and you never know

[Stu-1.8T]

I would have thought that this is the time of year you do want to buy a car. Dont wait till spring/summer when the prices creep up.

My brothers got a 2001 Audi A4 130 tdi and that goes really well...keeps up with my car through the lower gears.

[richandhazel]

I'd have thought that a 130/150 is a bit optomistic for 5k, but fingers crossed and you never know

150 is totally out of the question, I just have too many other commitments to spend that sort of money on a car, but a 130 is possible, 115 or 110 more likely. I would really like that 6 speed box though...........

[richandhazel]

I would have thought that this is the time of year you do want to buy a car. Dont wait till spring/summer when the prices creep up.

My brothers got a 2001 Audi A4 130 tdi and that goes really well...keeps up with my car through the lower gears.

The A4 is another option I'm looking at. My mate has just bought a really good 1.8T A4 for 2k!

[Rhyso]

try popping to a car auction? my mate at work goes regulary and has picked up some bargains - he got a Passat 1.8T on a W plate for 2.5K!! Well over a grand less than in the dealers. and came fully loaded with climate control, optional alloys and only 70K on the clock!! 

May well be joining you in getting a MK4 too.....got to see if mine passes the MOT first then ill be doing some serious shopping 

[Organisys]

A Passat is one of the best buys for a recent used VAG, imho.

[richandhazel]

Hmmmm, must admit, haven't looked at them. Got to do something very soon as I have already given Hazel the Polo. I'm now carless apart from the cabrio which is tucked away in the garage and doesn't do winter.

[Organisys]

Passat are cheaper than Golfs! depends if you want a larger car. very comfy though.

[richandhazel]

I live 20 minutes walk from Blackbush auctions. I have never been before so am a litttle nervous tbh but a couple of mates who have gone before have offered to come along so I'll be going up on Friday to get an idea of how much could be saved. Thats probably the only chance I'll get to pick up a 115 or 130.

I'm still quite keen on the Passat idea too. A tad thirstier and a little more on the insurance but definately a viable alternative.

Time now to do some serious research on prices so I know what is and isn't a bargain at the auctions.