I initially bought my Beetle as a backup car with air-conditioning. It is ten years younger than my other car. My other car has sentimental value and is semi retired. The Beetle seemed like a nice car, and I was able to purchase it outright. It had a few issues but nothing major. It had 80,000 miles on it, and I figured I would have some time with it. The problem that I have is that the car is practically all plastic. When it breaks, repairs are very expensive. Some mechanics do not deal with VW as they have to have special diagnostic equipment. When a part breaks, they cannot replace that piece. The whole part must be removed and replaced. Dealers are rather smarmy. The one I used for a time kept pressuring me to upgrade repairs or do maintenance work that was not due yet. These repairs are also costly, of course. The car is comfortable and roomy. It is cute. I can really get a lot packed in it with the hatchback and fold down rear seats. I do feel safe while driving it. I just have to pray for no repairs! I have spent as much as is it cost me to get the car.

I love my Volkswagen Beetle! I have wanted one since I was a little kid, and now that I've grown up, gotten a "big girl job," and was finally able to buy one for myself, I'm happy to report that I'm every bit as thrilled with it as I always imagined I would be. True, a Beetle is not the car for everyone; it's not as suited to tall people, and not the best choice for someone who needs to transport lots of stuff or lots of passengers, but for me, a short, single lady, it's perfect. It's just the right size for me; I like how well I can see all around through the windows and mirrors, and while the boot is small, it's plenty big enough for a load of groceries. The gas mileage is amazing, and it's easy to park. On top of all that, it is a head turner, despite not being an expensive luxury car. Beetles stand out, and people like them. Unfortunately, the downside to that is that more aggressive drivers don't take small cars like Beetles as seriously as other vehicles and are more likely to cut them off or otherwise behave badly around them. However, this is more of a psychological problem with people than a problem with the car. The only real complaint I have about the car is that the small engine compartment makes maintenance a little tricky. On the inside, I adore the heated leather seats, something I'll probably have to have in every vehicle I own from now on, and the AM/FM stereo with CD player and auxiliary port, because I simply can't drive without my music. Overall, I'm extremely happy with this car, and I wouldn't hesitate to buy another one.