On a lighter note than my other recent posts ;-) I am about to purchase a used car. It looks like I have a choice between a 2003 PT Cruiser and a 2001Volkswagen Passat. I like them both a lot. They are both in my price range, and both get good gas mileage.

I would love to hear from people who have either of these or have had in the past. Do the PT Cruisers hold up well? I have owned a VW Jetta in the past and loved it, but to get in my price range I have to go to a 2001, although the mileage is fairly low (54,000). The kids love the PT Cruiser, but I also want something dependable in the long-term.

Any votes?? Thanks!

I would have to go with the Passat if you're looking for dependability and longevity. I know the other looks cool, but no car ever looks good up on blocks or in the shop all the time! I didn't own a Cruiser but a friend did and she said the gas mileage sucked and the interior was plastic crap. VW has some user unfriendly features, but it's built better and will last longer, IMO. My husbands Jetta is old and the interior is finally falling apart, but that damn engine has ran without fail! It's got about 200,000 miles on it.

I use http://auto.consumerguide.com/ for alot of my car research. If you haven't already, I'd check them out too.

Here's some Epinions reviews for both cars as well:

http://www.epinions.com/auto_Make-20...kswagen_Passat

http://www.epinions.com/auto_Make-20...ler_PT_Cruiser

Thanks! That is VERY helpful! I appreciate it. Okay - off to look at your links.

Madscientist - thanks again! I looked at the reviews and it really seems like a no-brainer now. Thanks for your help!

passat for sure

You're welcome!

I have had both VW's and Chryslers. I also like the look of a PT Cruiser. (I currently drive a 2004 Sebring GTC convertible) I don't care for the Passat at all. But I do love the Beetle!! However, I will say this for a VW - if you can crank it, it'll drive!

You really should compare the two vehicles you're looking at. What kind of mileage do they have? Ask to see a repair report. The one with the MOST repairs may be the better car - meaning of course that it's had repairs done & possibly won't need much else. Also, whatever you choose, try to get the dealer to give you a 3 month bumper-to-bumper warranty. That way, anything that goes wrong in that 3 months, they'll fix it. My mom did that with a Ford Focus she had a few years ago, and it was a godsend... within those 3 months, she practically got a new car!

Good luck!!

I'd say definately the Passat! VW's go forever!!

I have a 2001 PT - I'd take it over the VW's I've owned in the past any day. I was sceptical when I first bought it - even got one of those extended warranties because I thought a Chrysler would be trouble. No troubles here - the dog is happy in the back - I really like the space of a wagon. The mileage is not amazing...maybe 20-25 MPG? But IMHO - it looks cool and runs great.

I think the PT looks cool, but that VW will run forever.

My DF just got a used Passat. It had less that 12K miles and still smelled like a new car. After driving a Jeep for MANY years he is in hog heaven with the gs mileage.