JayTheSnork (Jay)

In January of 2003, I was looking for a new car, at least new to me. I was driving a 1990 Nissan Maxima SE with roughly 245k miles on it, and it had been a pretty decent ride for a roughly 8 years. I had a few requirements: it had to be fun to drive, have decent horsepower, HAD to be a manual, and get decent gas mileage - I drive 120 miles a day to and from work - and lastly, had to be comfortable for a daily driver. Since I drive roughly 30k miles a year, it didn't make sense to buy a new car since the level of depreciation would plummet the value like a rock.

I went down to a local used car dealership (my wife went to high school with the owner), and he started handing me keys. I drove an Acura TL, a couple of Saab 9-3s, two Audi A4s, and even a Mercedes C class. None of them felt right. Then I saw this 99 Passat...Black Magic, GLS, leather, winter package with heated seats, V6, and a stick. I took the keys, and went for a ride, and that was absolutely it - I knew it immediately. It met all my requirements, and the price was right; hell, the interest rate for a used car loan was less than 4%, so I signed the papers and brought it home a couple of days later.

Then I got curious - I saw a few modified VWs on the road, and starting digging around online. I found enthusiast forums - B5one is a fave - and you guys got me hooked. The first mod was Hella projector headlights; then, a Kamei grille; then an audio system; then more audio mods; tinted tails; a new shift knob and a Diesel Geek short shifter. I considered chipping and lowering it, but it didn't make sense for a 30k mile a year daily driver. I have replaced the axles, suspension and control arms, and have spent a load of time digging through the online forums to learn about this fine automobile. I've learned loads from all of you guys who frequent the forums, and I thank you all for all the help and try to pay it forward at every opportunity.

This wouldn't be the obligatory write-up if I didn't take the time to thank people who've provided me their time, energy, and advice. I'd especially like to thank Bill, Jacob, Matt, and Keith for all their time, energy, and help. Bryan, Mike, and the rest of the crew at B5one, thanks for selecting my car. I also have to thank my youngest daughter Daria for her help with some of the smaller jobs. I also need to thank my wife Julie, since she puts up with my newly-found VW addiction. I've hooked my oldest daughter Deena, as she's now driving a 98 Audi A4 Avant. As for the rest of you, thanks for helping me lighten my wallet!

and last but not least, driving the Tail of the Dragon!

Mods

Engine and Exhaust

• Hella projector headlights
• Kamei grille
• Alpine audio system
• Tinted tails
• Shift knob
• Diesel Geek short shifter

Other oneB5s

B5one is a licensed club of Volkswagen