1996 Volkswagen Cabrio review from North America

Convertible top appeared dirty, but this is an actual defect in the vinyl durability (VW partially reimbursing).

The plastic coolant crossover piece ("gooseneck") may be cracked, as it leaks coolant at a very very slow rate.

Leather seats starting to show age, sun damage & my lack of good caretaking.

Cruise control not working since bought.

Brakes needed replacing, when bought.

Welds holding exhaust pipe at driver side of muffler ("clamshell") broke, had it re-welded ($50)

Stock stereo in lock-out mode. Got code, and radio worked, but would scan unpredictably and not stop.

This early 1996 model has no glovebox.

There is more intrusion of air from the the back with the top down than you will get in a 2-seater, or even the old rabbit convertible.

I keep losing the keys ;)

This car was a great deal. Found it on EBAY, and paid less than 1/2 book value. I had enjoyed driving VW Rabbit Convertibles, and this is just a newer, safer version. The 1982 Rabbit Convertible was not looking too safe for another winter. This car has good heat (better on passenger side), good cold air conditioning, fully adjustable seats, good handling, parking, turn radius, and fuel efficiency.

I have a removable faceplate stereo now, very nice. Important in a convertible!

Plenty of headroom, especially with top down.

Real back seat makes this car more useful than most convertibles.

Trunk is actually quite roomy, seats can fold, too.

Fun!

I love it! Gotta get a windscreeen for long rides, though.

-chuck in RI.