Originally Posted by dauber

+1

I sold my 96 Passat TDI last year for $2500 (sold it to a friend, could have got more) and it was mechanically solid with 230k. No leaks and always posted 42mpg+ driving 80 with the air on. When my wife drove it it would post 46-48mpg. I did not have room for her anymore as was given a company car and no long pay for fuel. All Passat TDI's 96-97 are manuals so no worries on the tranny. Of all the cars I have owned I miss that one the most, very reliable and great on fuel. And as a bonus for your size the seat goes waaay back, I could not even touch the peddles on the two furthest settings and I am 6'2.