Journal of Lovely VW Beetle Bugs And Cat Lovers

litle car

2009-10-16T01:08:00.000-07:00

The VW Beetle is a cult favorite here in the States, but in Germany, it's not so well loved. That could be part of the reason why Volkswagen has been slow to produce a successor to the new Beetle, but word from Motor Trend is that two models could be coming shortly. The first Beetle will be based off the Gen-VI Golf and will hit production in 2010 or 2011.

Word out of Wolfsburg is that a second Beetle could be on the way as well, but this one would be based off the up! minicar. That would give VW a sub-brand Beetle lineup, kind of like what Toyota has with Scion, but with an eye on MINI buyers. The smaller up!-based Beetle would also be more true to the original Bug, which was a cheap and efficient "People's Car" with the engine out back (supposedly). Quality problems and a weak dollar have lead VW to struggle in the U.S. over the past few years, but an inexpensive, reliable car with top-notch fuel economy would go a long way toward reversing that trend.

source:autoblog.com

2012 New Beetle has a larger space in the back seat

2009-10-16T00:59:00.000-07:00

The "New Beetle" was a smash hit when it debuted in 1998, and the cutesy little Bug immediately jumped to sales of 83,434 the next year. Over the next 10 years, however, Volkswagen left the spiritual successor to the original Beetle out to dry, and sales have steadily dropped down to near nothingness. AutoWeek is reporting that Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of VW of America, confirmed at a press event in Germany that a long overdue redesign of the New Beetle is coming in 2012, and packaging will be vastly improved. The current back seat of the New Beetle is a real problem being far too small and uncomfortable for a vehicle in the small car segment. Jacoby says the next Beetle will have a larger rear quarters and better packaging, without growing much beyond its current dimensions. Jacoby says the Beetle will also be used by VW as a kind of low-cost halo car, showing that the German automaker has returned to its roots of building cars for the people. It's great that VW is finally getting around to making the next New Beetle, but with 14 years between redesigns, we're thinking VW needs to knock the next little Bug out of the park if it once again wants to catch the eye of the car-buying public.
Okay, let's watch n see how is it would be nice and larger spacious rear seat

Pictures of VW beetle from 1999 - 2009

2009-10-16T00:23:00.000-07:00

2006-2007
2003-2005
2000-2001 top
2002 below1999

It's been a decade the old grown up Beetle still has its eye catchy looks. Feel free to see ..2009

tell me what's the differences are ...

VW Touran vs Innova vs Freed

2009-07-21T20:30:00.001-07:00

Jakarta - Melihat besarnya pasar MPV di tanah air, ternyata membuat VW ikut tergiur untuk mencicipi manisnya pasar MPV. Buktinya, pada semester kedua tahun ini, tepatnya saat gelaran Indonesia International Motor Show 2009, bulan Juli nanti, VW akan meluncurkan varian MPV nya, yakni VW Touran. Hal tersebut diutarakan CEO PT Garuda Mataram Motor (GMM), Andrew Nasuri, dalam acara media gathering VW di Djakarta Theater Building, Jalan MH Thamrin, Jakarta, Selasa, (14/4/2009) "Kita akan keluarkan VW Touran, pada semester II-2009 ini, bersamaan dengan IIMS nanti," ujar Andrew. Rencananya, Touran akan mengusung mesin terbaru dari VW, yakni TSI 1.400 cc berbahan bakar bensin, yang mampu menyemburkan tenaga sampai 170 dk, serta sudah memenuhi standar emisi Euro 4. MPV 7 seater ini nantinya akan mengambil tempat pada pasar di atas Toyota Avanza, dan lebih cenderung untuk berbagi jatah dengan Honda Freed ataupun Innova. Akan tetapi, mengenai kisaran harga, Andrew belum berani gegabah untuk membukanya saat ini, mengingat kondisi kurs rupiah yang masih belum stabil. Namun, bila melihat segmentasi pasarnya, setidaknya Touran akan berada pada kisaran harga di atas Rp 200 juta. Tertarik mencicipi MPV ciptaan tangan-tangan Benua Eropa? Tunggu sampai bulan Juli saat IIMS berlangsung di tanah air. ( bgj / ddn )

(www.detikOto.com)

VW akan memperketat persaingan dalam industri perakitan mobil di Indonesia

2009-07-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

JAKARTA -- Volkswagen AG, produsen otomotif terbesar Eropa akan menanamkan modalnya di Indonesia senilai 140 juta dolar AS dalam dua tahun ke depan untuk membangun pabrik di Indonesia. Menyusul pulihnya ekonomi global yang diharapkan dapat mendongkrak daya beli masyarakat.

Menurut Ketua BKPM, Muhammad Luthfi, pabrik mobil Jerman ini akan membangun pabrik yang mampu memproduksi 50 ribu unit kendaraan jenis multi purpose vehicle (MPV) Touran. Pemerintah akan memfasilitas insentif pajak kepada Volkswagen, kata Luthfi tanpa menjelaskan lebih lanjut.

Bagi Volkswagen membangun kendaraan jenis MPV dinilai 30 persen lebih murah dibanding negara Asia Tenggara lainnya karena adanya keringanan pajak pemerintah. Pabrik mobil yang bermarkas di Wolfsburg ini juga mengembangkan bisnisnya di Cina dan India sebagai pengganti pasar di Eropa dan AS yang lesu akibat krisis. ''Volkswagen adalah merek global yang akan tampil di negara ini. Ini sangat penting,'' kata Luthfi dikutip Bloomberg.

Sebelumnya pada 11 Mei silam, Volkswagen akan menggunakan pabrik di Indonesia sebagai pusat produksinya untuk memenuhi pasaran otomotif di Asia tenggara. Namun, Mathilda Rinta, juru bicara Volkswagen Indonesia tidak memberikan komentar terkait hal itu.

Volkswagen juga akan menanamkan modal 776 juta dolar AS dengan mitra lokal untuk mengembangkan pabriknya. Bila Maret lalu, Volkswagen telah membuka pabriknya senilai 580 juta Euro di India. Salah satu unit usaha Volkswagen, Lamborghini SpA telah membuka sebuah dilernya awal tahun ini setelah Indonesia tercatat mencapai rekor penjualan mobil 607.805 unit tahun lalu.

Sebelum Touran, Toyota Motor Corp. telah melansir Toyota Kijang yang telah hilir mudik di tanah air sejak 1977. Belakangan Honda Motor Co. juga tidak mau ketinggalan dengan menampilkan Honda Freed beberapa waktu lalu.

Menurut Lembaga Moneter Internasional (IMF) Ekonomi Indonesia akan berkembang di kisaran 4 persen tahun ini. Jumlah itu tertinggi di Asia setelah India dan Cina. hir/ahi

(www. republikaonline.co.id)

VW buka pabrik di Indonesia ??

2009-07-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Jakarta - Produsen Jerman yang siap memproduksi mobil di Indonesia terungkap sudah. Pabrikan itu adalah Volkswagen (VW).

VW menyiapkan dana investasi senilai 35 juta euro atau sekitar Rp 485 miliar untuk membangun pabrik perakitan di Indonesia. Dana ini bisa saja bertambah.

Seperti dikutip Wall Street Journal, Kamis (7/5/2009), VW akan membangun pabrik itu di daerah timur Jakarta, Atau sejam dari pusat kota Jakarta.

Pabrik di Indonesia ini merupakan VW yang pertama di Asia di luar China.

Juru Bicara VW Christoph Adomat ketika dikonfirmasi mengakui perusahaannya tengah menyiapkan pembangunan pabrik di Inonesia. Pabrik ini akan mulai dibangun pada bulan Juli atau sesudahnya.

Mobil yang akan dirakit di Indonesia merupakan mobil-mobil penumpang, dengan jumlah produksi yang masih belum bisa diperkirakan.

"Pabrik perakitan lokal ini disiapkan sebagai langkah pertama VW di pasar ASEAN yang tengah berkembang," ujarnya.

Sayang Adomat tidak memerinci rencana VW ini lebih lanjut.

Saat ini, mobil-mobil VW diimpor langsung ke Indonesia. Ini berarti VW terkena tarif atau pajak hampir 200 persen. Dengan membangun pabrik di Indonesia, mobil-mobil VW akan lebih murah dibanding harga sekarang.

Hmm, harga mobil VW pastinya lebih terjangkau untuk masyarakat Indonesia.

Pernyataan juru bicara VW ini mengonfirmasi Kepala Badan Koordinasi Penanaman Modal (BKPM) M Lutfi yang menyebutkan bakal ada pabrikan Jerman yang membuka pabrik perakitan baru di Indonesia.

(www.detikOto.com)

VOLKSWAGEN would go bankrupt ?

2008-11-18T06:02:00.000-08:00

Sen. Lamar Alexander said Thursday that Volkswagen’s new plant in Tennessee could be affected if the country’s financial crisis isn’t resolved, while a spokeswoman for the automaker downplayed the impact."We build great cars. But our costs are far higher than our targets," Wolfgang Bernhard, head of the VW brand, told the Wolfsburg workforce just over a week ago. "Let us all pull together to make this plant viable and your jobs safe. Wolfsburg has to get off the reserves' bench and become our striker."

Alexander, R-Tenn., said he was told by executives at the recent opening of Volkswagen AG’s new American headquarters in Virginia last week that the German automaker’s credit branch is having trouble securing the $300 million it borrows each month to make car loans.

If that credit crunch gets worse, it could affect VW’s plans to build cars at a new plant in Chattanooga, Alexander said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press from Washington.

“If a company the size and prestige of Volkswagen can’t get the money to make car loans, then I can’t buy a car,” Alexander said. “And if I can’t buy a Volkswagen, they’re not going to be making any in Chattanooga, and people aren’t going to have jobs.”

Volkswagen spokeswoman Jill Bratina denied the financial crisis will have any impact on the company’s plans to build a $1 billion assembly plant and create 2,000 jobs in Chattanooga.

“Our Volkswagen Credit business is extremely strong,” she said. “We have access to the necessary funds and will continue to offer a full range of services to our customers and dealers.”

Alexander said he expects Congress to reach an agreement by the end of the weekend over a $700 billion bailout plan to rescue financial institutions from crippling debt.

“People are beginning to understand that what we’re talking about is whether a Tennessean can get a student loan or a mortgage loan, or car loan, or whether our home values are solvent,” he said. “This is a circumstance none of us has ever seen before.”

Tennessee Congressmen Jimmy Duncan and Zach Wamp, both Republicans, agree quick action is needed to restore confidence in the financial system, but they have serious reservations about the bailout plan being pushed by Congress and the president.

“Congress should never have been put in a position of having to intervene in the private sector,” Wamp said.

Wamp said he won’t make up his mind on a compromise being negotiated by Congressional leaders, until he sees the details, but either way “I’m just sick having to vote on it … I am literally in prayer about it.”

Government intervention in the private sector goes against his core beliefs, but doing nothing could cost Tennessee jobs and rob workers of retirement benefits, Wamp said.

“I’ve casts thousand and thousands of votes and this is going to be really the worst of all,” Wamp said.

Rep. John Duncan Jr., R-Tenn., praised President Bush for his remarks Wednesday, but said they didn’t change his mind about the bailout proposal.

“They are asking us to do something that we really can’t afford. I assume we’re going to do it anyway,” Duncan said. “The only way we can come close to affording it is to have drastic cuts in programs, which we are not going to do with a Democrat-controlled Congress.”

Duncan lamented that the federal government is spending more money now than at any time he can remember since joining Congress.

“It’s big government liberalism that got us into this mess and now they’re saying we need more government to get us out. I sure am against the whole way of going about this. There’s not a good choice. It’s ridiculous to bail out millionaires on Wall Street when we won’t do the same to people on Main Street,” Duncan said, stopping short of saying he will vote against the bail-out package.

Duncan said all the details of the bi-partisan proposal have not been received on Capitol Hill, so he can’t make a decision until he’s seen the full package.

Details still being worked out include ways to avoid what Alexander called “excessive risk” for taxpayers.

“We ought to make sure we have aggressive oversight, that any revenues that go to government go to reduce our federal debt and not into the federal piggy bank, and that executives of firms that got into trouble don’t get rich as a result of us buying these mortgages,” he said.

Alexander praised the two presidential nominees, Democratic Sen. Barack Obama and Republican Sen. John McCain, for agreeing to meet with President Bush and work toward a solution.

But Alexander said he hadn’t expected McCain’s announcement that he wanted to postpone Friday’s presidential debate in Mississippi to focus on the economy.

“I’m a little surprised by it, frankly,” Alexander said. “I hope it goes ahead.”

Belmont University in Nashville is scheduled to host the second presidential debate on Oct. 7.

Alexander said another issue of importance to Tennesseans working its way through Congress is a proposal for a two-year extension of the sales tax exemption for states like Tennessee, Florida and Texas that don’t have an income tax.

Alexander said about 600,000 Tennesseans are eligible for the deduction, and that it saves an average of $400 a year on federal taxes.

“It’s only fair that Tennesseans are able to deduct their state and local taxes, just as citizens in more than 40 states are able to do it,” he said. “We’ve decided we don’t want a state income tax, and we shouldn’t be penalized for that.”

The sales tax deduction was part of a package passed by the Senate that included energy incentives and Alternative Minimum Tax proposals. But the House is evaluating each of those proposals in separate bills, which could lead to a showdown between the two chambers.

“That means none of it may become law,” Alexander said. “So I hope the House changes its mind.”
The striker is severely injured at the moment. With its four chimneys and brick-block construction, Wolfsburg towers like a vast Battersea power station above the North German Plain. It has 75,000 employees, of whom 25,000 work in administration at VW's headquarters, while 10,000 make parts for the assembly line.

Mr Bernard, who was booed and whistled at by the Wolfsburg workforce, unveiled charts showing that VW loses €1,020 (£700) on every Golf it makes. The new Golf, to be launched in 2009, has to be at least €1,500 cheaper to build. This would make it profitable, but if the car is to be competitive, costs would probably have to be even lower than that. Meanwhile, price pressure is hitting home, and traditional Golf drivers are deserting it for other cars, such as SUVs.

Cost-cutting will require dropping over-engineered features, including the Golf's complex rear-axle, to slash construction time from 50 hours to less than 30. Purchasing, logistics and manufacturing processes have to be improved. But, above all, it means fewer jobs.

"We must make our labour costs competitive," Mr Bernhard said. "If we do that, cars can be produced in Wolfsburg competitively. Secure jobs depend upon competitiveness."

Mr Bernhard wants to raise the 28.8-hour working week on the assembly line to 35 hours without raising pay. This would bring Wolfsburg and VW's other plants in line with their German competitors. At the same time, he hopes to persuade 20,000 German workers to leave VW with voluntary redundancy packages worth up to €250,000 each. To date, just 800 workers have opted to do so. The unions point out that VW's plants are located in areas of high unemployment, and the payments would be halved by tax. The chief union negotiator, Hartmut Meine of IG Metall, has flatly refused to renegotiate the current contract, which guarantees job security past 2010.

The crisis at Wolfsburg and VW is so deep that Mr Bernhard recently aired the idea that the next Golf might not be built there. "We want to build the next Golf in Wolfsburg," he said, "but only if the company does not pay for every car sold."

The suggestion that Wolfsburg might, in effect, be closed down caused union outrage. Anger was also expressed about a story, quickly denied by the company, that suggested VW wanted to cut its German workforce by 30,000.

Feelings are running high. The unions are now gearing themselves for strikes and protests as sensitive talks on jobs and wages restart later this week.

Yet fundamental change is inevitable, according to analysts. "Little has happened to date," says Albrecht Denninghoff at HVB Equity Research. "VW announced its profits target last year and we have seen no great change. The unions rightly demand an overall plan, which we have not seen. Frankly, we are rather surprised by the way the company has behaved."

Another analyst, who asks not to be identified, adds: "VW has to move to a 35-hour week without additional pay, then it has to cut its overcapacity. It can make six million cars at its German plants but sells only five. It will need many successful models to make up the difference. I don't see it happening. It is hard to be optimistic for employees."

VW set itself the goal of achieving profits of €5.1bn in 2008. Yet this would only move it close to covering its costs. It would not make it competitive.

Patrick Juchemich, an analyst at Sal Oppenheim, an investment bank, predicts that disposals, including that of the Europcar rental group, will help offset the €1.7bn potential cost of the voluntary redundancy programme. As a result, VW's profits might rise from €1bn to €2.6bn in 2006. Yet, he warns: "The previous programme was not well received at all. This is more generous but reaction has been modest."

There are signs that the unions see the gravity of the situation. Bernd Osterloh, the head of the VW works council, is a member of the company's supervisory board. (Under German law, the supervisory board represents both investors and employees, and approves important corporate decisions.) Mr Osterloh blames management for the problems. "It is not the workforce's fault that it takes 50 hours to build the car," he said. "Competitors need half the time. The Golf is so complicated that we really cannot build it."

Mr Osterloh has said he is willing to discuss labour costs with the board. But: "I want to know what the company is going to do with the money in order to survive in the longer term." He also criticised VW for the decision to build the new Scirocco coupé in Portugal, rather than at Wolfsburg, where it would reduce excess capacity.

The relationship between capital and labour has to change, as HVB's Mr Denninghoff points out. "Is this a company that provides employment to its workforce," he asks, "or returns to shareholders?"

Yet the challenge is so great because so many jobs are threatened at once. Increasing the working week and halving the Golf's construction time will create further overcapacity, not least at Wolfsburg.

"Purely mathematically, the effects of these measures would be 30,000 job losses in Germany. But they are unlikely to see 20,000 under present circumstances," says Mr Juchemich at Sal Oppenheim.

Becoming competitive - Mr Bernhard's stated goal - suggests yet more cuts. Currently, one hour's work on the assembly line in Wolfsburg costs the company €55, compared with €40 at its competitors' plants in Germany - and just €5.50 in VW's plant in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Mr Denninghoff claims a competitive workforce would require 60,000 job losses, leaving VW with just 40,000 German employees, a dire prospect for the country's economy. Yet this simply reflects what is happening in the car industry."Mercedes has reduced the headcount of its Stuttgart headquarters to eight or nine thousand," he says. "There seems no reason for VW to have 25,000 people in administration at Wolfsburg."

It's something VW is apparently only too aware of. As its chief executive, Bernd Pischetsrieder, has already said: "We have 59 plants, too low turnover and too few customers."

If Wolfsburg is to be saved, it seems the unions have little choice but to start working with VW's management.

How to Finding Affordable Car Insurance

2008-10-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

Affordable car insurance is something that everyone wants to find and have. You realize that you cannot afford to drive a car on the road without insurance, at least not without asking for trouble, but keeping car insurance as affordable as possible, especially with consumers tightening their belts to the breaking point these days, can be a challenge.

With that in mind, below are listed several tips to keep in mind so that you can find the most affordable car insurance available. By employing all of these tips, you will certainly be able to get the most affordable car insurance available.

1. Keep a good driving record. This is probably obvious, but it is probably the single biggest criteria in keeping your car insurance rates low. Moving violation tickets (as opposed to parking tickets which are not a moving violation) are the worst thing you can have. And if you lie to your insurance company, it is even worse because they will find out via your state's motor vehicle department, and then they will re-bill you for the months that you were paying lower car insurance rates.

2. Consider the car you are insuring. Based on years of statistics, the insurance companies have different rates for different makes and models of cars. For example, if you want a sporty car, the typical rate on a Dodge Stealth is almost twice as much as the very similar Mitsubishi Eclipse for the same year car, so before you buy a new or used car, check to see how it fares in terms of insurance.

3. Manage your deductibles. Your insurance rate for a $100 deductible is going to be much higher than your rates with a $500 deductible. Determine how and where you drive, then choose sensible deductible levels to keep your rates low.

4. Eliminate collision insurance. If you have a car that you are still making payments on or it is a leased car, you are required to carry collision insurance on your car insurance policy. But if it is an older car that is paid off, you may want to eliminate the collision insurance since you are no longer required to carry it. But keep in mind if you are in an accident, chances are that the entire cost of repairs will come out of your pocket.

5. Use whatever discounts can be applied. Sometimes discounts may be available for employees of a local large company. For your teen drivers, some companies offer a good student discount for the student who maintains a B or better grade point average. If it makes financial sense, check out also placing your homeowner's insurance with this company if they offer a multi-policy or multi-product discount.

6. Believe it or not, keep your credit history as clean as possible. Car insurance companies are starting to look at consumer's credit reports when quoting car insurance rates because they allegedly have studies which indicate that people with lower credit scores make more claims. If your credit report is not squeaky clean, find out what you can do to get it cleaned up.

And saving the most important tip for last, by all means shop around. Do not choose an insurance company just because they are in the next block or your brother-in-law works there. This is a competitive industry and let the company prove that they want your business by offering you an attractive rate. Do not be afraid to shop online either, since many times online car insurance can save you a ton over what the local insurance company can offer, and provide you with the most affordable car insurance you can get.

For more insights and additional information about finding Affordable Car Insurance as well as getting a free online car insurance quote that may be very affordable, please visit our web site at http://www.tips-for-car-insurance.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Arnold

2008 VW Eos, Convertible, take over lease. - $400 (Redmond)

2008-10-08T00:04:00.000-07:00

Volkwagen Eos, hard top Convertible, go to topless in 30 seconds with a push of a button.

The car has 2.0 200 horsepower. 4-cylinders, 6 speed. It has some power behind it. It has the standard package, but has additions heated front seats, iPod adaptor (iPhone ready too) splash guards, and rubber floor mats.

After we meet and you look at the car and like it, I will need to have VW run a credit check on you and then have VW process the paperwork to transfer the payment plan from me to you. With the understanding you maintain the agreement. That means:

every 5000 maintenance
Monthly $400.00 payment for the next 33 months Full coverage insurance Yearly Tabs and licensing (Due in July) At the end of the lease you need to turn it in, I have some insurance on it already (Wear and Tear), but any thing major will have to go through your insurance

I put $3100.00 down to keep my payment lower and for the Wear and Tear protection. I would like to try to recoup $1000.00 of it if possible. But Negotiable.

Any questions? Still interested?

* Location: Redmond
* it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests

PostingID: 870808013

Auto Insurance 101 Step by Step Guide: From Choosing Your Car Insurance To Filing Your Claim By Bobbie Sage, About.com

2008-08-08T01:55:00.000-07:00

Why do you need a five step guide to auto insurance shopping? Because, if you want to get the best coverage for your buck, shopping smart for your car insurance is the way to do it. Also, car insurance is one of the top ways to chisel down your insurance budget if you know how to do it right. Let's start with deciding what car insurance coverage you need:

1. What Kind of Coverage Do You Need?: Before calling the insurance company and getting your insurance quote, take the time to decide what kind of coverage you need. In every state you have to have at least liability coverage. But, you need to decide if you would like to add these additional car insurance coverages:

Collision

If you choose comprehensive and collision coverages, you will need to decide what deductible amounts you would like. And, it is important to know what policy limits your state requires so you can decide what policy limits you would like. Other coverages you may also be interested in:

Emergency Roadside Service
Gap Insurance

2. Choosing an Insurance Company: When you are ready to select your insurance provider, besides just looking for the best car insurance premium, you will want to take some time to research what insurance company you want to go with by learning about their financial strength. Another important aspect of choosing your insurance provider is knowing if and how they will use your credit score to determine your rate. Take the time to research different companies and then make a list of the providers you are interested in contacting for an insurance quote. Here are some tools to help you research your car insurance company:

Car Insurance Company Report Card
Your Credit Score and the Insurance Company

3. Making the Call: When you have your list of selected car insurance providers you are ready to start calling around to search for the one who can give you the best deal. It is important to have certain paperwork handy, such as your drivers license number. In addition, having a list of discounts you may be entitled to can save you some extra money. Here are some resources to help you when you are ready to make the call:

Car Insurance Savings Checklist
Online Car Insurance Company Quote Worksheet

4. Understanding Your Car Insurance Policy: Now that you have your car insurance policy, do you understand what it means? Did you get what you paid for? It is important to know how your car insurance policy works and how it can work for you. Here is some help in understanding your policy:

Getting What You Paid For
eCourse: How to Know if Your Insurance Contract is Legal
Car Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

5. Filing a Car Insurance Claim: Let's hope you never have to file a car insurance claim, but if you do it is important to learn some things before the accident comes. Learning what things you need to do when you have an auto accident can help the claims process go much smoother. Here are some claim filing tools you will want to learn before you file a car insurance claim:

I Had a Car Accident!
5 Steps to Filing Your Car Insurance Claim
Aftermarket Parts and the Insurance Company - Do You Have a Choice?

Quotes to Seize the Day

2008-06-16T00:38:00.001-07:00

Buzz up u'r life!

Hear the sound of your car

2008-04-11T01:34:00.000-07:00

A moving car is a complex symphony of sound, most of it reassuring--tires humming, engine rumbling, tailpipes roaring. But every now and then a dissonant note creeps into the mix--and the alert driver's ears prick up: Did you hear that? Here's a guide that identifies those oddball sounds and helps you sort out which conditions you can let slide and which ones mean repairs--and how fast you need to make them.

THUMPTHUMP
THUMPTHUMP
THUMPTHUMP
WHERE: From one or more tires.
WHEN: At low speeds, especially in the morning. Speeds up with car.
WHAT: Flat-spotted tire. As the tire rotates the flat spot thumps on the ground. Nylon-cord tires will flat-spot overnight and make this sound until they warm up. It's usually worse in colder weather. You can permanently flat-spot the tires by locking up the wheels, grinding massive amounts of rubber off the tread in one spot.
URGENCY: Nada.
FIX: Replace your nylon tires with steel-belted tires. If you've ground down your tires like a pencil eraser, you can either live with the vibration until wear reduces the flat-spotting or buy new tires.

FFFFffff ttttFFFF ffff ttttFFFFffff tttt
WHERE: Under the hood.
WHEN: Most noticeable at idle.
WHAT: An exhaust manifold gasket has failed, venting hot exhaust gases to the air.
URGENCY: It's not getting better on its own. The blowtorch of corrosive gases will eventually damage the manifold. Oh, by the way: Carbon monoxide from the leak may make you drowsy or dead.
FIX: Replace the exhaust manifold gasket before the leak eats a hole in the manifold.

Ticktickticktick
WHERE: Under the center of the car, toward the rear.
WHEN: While in motion and varying with road speed.
WHAT: U-joint (rwd or 4wd only). A U-joint in your driveshaft has finally run out of grease, is getting loose and is about to fail.
URGENCY: That's really just an urban legend about cars polevaulting over broken driveshafts when U-joints fail at speed, right?
FIX: Replace all the U-joints and keep the new ones greased regularly.

EEEEEEEeeeee
WHERE: Inside the wheels.
WHEN: Slowing down; it's sometimes worse on damp days.
WHAT: Your brake pads are stroking the discs like a violin bow.
URGENCY: Sometimes they do that. Your brakes still work fine.
FIX: Try new pads, adhesive to hold pads to the piston or shims to insulate the piston from the pads. Another option: earplugs. (Sometimes the sound is difficult to eliminate.)

SSSSSSSSSSSS
WHERE: Under the hood.
WHEN: Anytime the engine is running, but it's most noticeable at idle speed.
WHAT: Vacuum leak. A rubber or plastic vacuum line or fitting has split or fallen apart.
URGENCY: If you're wondering why your Check Engine light is on and why your car idles poorly, this is probably why.
FIX: Reconnect or replace the line.

Clang
WHERE: Under the center of the car or truck, near the middle.
WHEN: Starting off at traffic lights. Most often heard on pickups with automatic transmissions, not manuals.
WHAT: The splines that allow the driveshaft to change length where it connects to the tailshaft are binding as you slow down and then releasing when you start off.
URGENCY: Annoying, but They All Do That--or at least some of them do it some of the time.
FIX: Packing the spline area with special grease helps for a month or so. Or just sell the car or truck.

ThunkThunkThunk
WHERE: One or both front corners of the vehicle.
WHEN: Going around slow, sharp corners under light throttle.
WHAT: A CV joint that allows your front wheels to turn and still be powered is loose. The boot has failed and let out all the CV joint's grease, or maybe it's just time for it to wear out.
URGENCY: Don't leave town. Don't use a lot of throttle around sharp turns. Your car will stop suddenly when the joint completely fails.
FIX: Replace the entire off ending half-axle.

CLUNK
WHERE: Front end.
WHEN: Initially, when parking; eventually, over small bumps.
WHAT: The ball joint that connects the suspension arm to the upright has lost its lubrication and the metal-to-metal contact is wearing it out.
URGENCY: Make an appointment. Avoid bumpy roads, curbs and potholes.
FIX: Replace the ball joint.

GrumbleGrumble
WHERE: Front of the car.
WHEN: At idle. (Check for weeping coolant at the bottom of the water pump, too.)
WHAT: Water pump bearings.
URGENCY: When the bearings fail completely, the fan will pull forward and slice a nice big smile-shaped chunk out of the radiator, making it leak profusely.
FIX: You need a new pump.

Yyyyoooooowwwwrrrrrrr
WHERE: Under the hood. WHEN: Whenever you rotate the steering wheel all the way to the left or right steering stop and hold it there.
WHAT: The pressure relief valve inside the pump is dumping excess power-steering hydraulic fluid back into the reservoir. It's supposed to do that, although maybe a little more quietly.
URGENCY: No big deal.
FIX: It's normal. Actually, you should check the level of powersteering fluid in the pump. Don't hold the wheel hard on the stop like that; it annoys pedestrians and is tough on the belt.

YEEEEeeeeeaaaaawwwppp
WHERE: Under the hood.
WHEN: Right after startup until you rev the throttle a couple of times and the rubber warms up.
WHAT: Belt squeal. A loose or glazed belt, bad tensioner or misaligned pulley.
URGENCY: Make an appointment, and don't take a long trip. This won't go away on its own--until just before the belt fails.
FIX: Check belt tension and pulley alignment; replace the belt.

source: Popular Mechanic Nov. 2005

VW Mini (2)

2008-04-11T01:23:00.000-07:00

FRANKFURT — Volkswagen is building the Beetle again. OK, not really, but thanks to a trendy campaign and a cute little car called the Up!, VW is set to take on the likes of Smart and Scion as early as 2010. The new mini-car is part of the company’s plan to get back to its roots, building affordable rides for the masses.

Despite its diminutive size, the concept has four seats and room for a fair amount of luggage—plus a variable interior for fitting in awkward objects. User-friendly buttons on the steering wheel are reminiscent of those on an iPod (or at least an iPod Classic), while most of the dash controls can be accessed via touch-screen.

VW will offer the Up! (we feel as ridiculous typing it as you do reading it) with two- and three-cylinder engines—an obvious result of the group’s focus on efficiency and economy. It’s claiming the mid-engine, rear-wheel drive car gets some 67 mpg, but VW is trying to raise that number even higher. Despite these claims, the company has remained vague with regard to future powerplants.

The car looks awfully similar to a Smart from the outside, with a body draped around the drivetrain and cockpit. Small overhangs and R8-style LED lights mounted up front add flair to Walter de Silva’s design. You might expect to see these on American streets—VW chairman Martin Winterkorn said today that the car will be sold in other continents, but with different features, as well as in emerging markets. —James Tate

VW Mini Space Up!

2008-04-11T01:21:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES — With NBA legend Jon Salley by his side, Volkswagen head of technical development Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg unveiled the Space Up! Blue electric-powered concept car to a large crowd here—its first in North America. Small in stature, Hackenberg warned us not to judge a book by its cover: “There is plenty of interior space for four full-size people.” Styled after the classic Samba Bus from the 1950s (a hippy favorite), this slick looking, zero-emission van is powered by an electric drive system that includes a 45-kW motor, 12 lithium-ion batteries with a total of 12 kWh, and a hydrogen fuel cell. It can be recharged via the onboard hydrogen fuel cell or an electric outlet when hydrogen isn’t available. On battery power alone, the diminutive vehicle has a range of 65 miles. The fuel cell extends that by another 155 miles. A large solar panel mounted on the roof doesn’t hurt either.

Hackenberg also showed the 2009 VW Tiguan and 2009 VW Jetta turbo-diesel. The Tiquan is a sporty yet capable crossover designed to shake up the category. “It’s the GTi of crossovers,” Hackenberg Ulrich Hackenberg. It’ll come with a robust 2.0-liter, 200-hp turbo four, a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, electromechanical power steering, an electronic parking brake and all-wheel drive. The Jetta’s two-liter clean diesel engine makes just 140 hp, but promises 35/36 combined fuel economy. —Chuck Tannert

VW Van Volkswagen Routan

2008-04-11T01:19:00.000-07:00

CHICAGO — If you’ve been dreaming of some hip, new-wave version of the hippie microbus, dream on. Instead of drawing on its storied van heritage, Volkswagen said here today that it plans to implement Chrysler’s minivan architecture for a distinctly American van.

VW’s seven-passenger Routan minivan will be manufactured at Chrysler’s Ontario plant—the same line that produces the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, both of which won a 2008 Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Award in the versatility category.

To set the Routan apart from the twin Chryslers, it’ll get its own grille and exterior design. But more importantly, the Routan appears to have a real VW interior, meaning far more upscale materials and designs. But otherwise the Routan is very close to the Chrysler duo in terms of room, space and standard amenities. It has 32.7 cu. ft. available behind the third-row seats, plus 83 cu. ft. with the second row stowed.

The Routan will come with two Chrysler engines: a standard 3.8-liter V6 rated at 197 hp and 230 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission; and an optional 4.0-liter V6 at 251 hp and 259 lb.-ft. VW says the Routan has European-style suspension, steering and driving dynamics and that prices will start below $25,000. —Jim McCraw

Jetta (2)

2008-04-11T01:14:00.000-07:00

WASHINGTON — Fifty years ago, station wagons accounted for 15 percent of all new cars sold. Squaring off against super-sized Americruisers such as Ford’s Country Squire and Chevy’s Bel Air, Volkswagen sold its doughty little Transporter in Kombi, Microbus and Camper versions. Sure, it looked like a loaf of Wonder bread on wheels, but with as many as 21 windows and eight seats, it was the stoked choice of the homemade-granola-and-sandals crowd. Funny thing is, those old Microbuses are collectors’ items today. Today, with fuel prices spiking, Volkswagen thinks this just might be the right time for a new transporter in its lineup. But this go-round, it’s a tidy little wagon. “Station wagons are a common thread in our collective experience,” insists VW America COO Mark Barnes. More important, the Wolfsburgers know how to build a solid little hauler that’s surprisingly roomy, economical and fun to drive. Jetta wagons arrive in July with three engine choices. The base 2.5-liter inline Five brings 170 hp and 177 lb.-ft. of torque paired to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. You can step up to a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged inline Four with 207 lb.-ft. of torque. But we dig the 50-state approved, 140 hp I-4 TDI diesel with 235 lb.-ft. of torque. The diesel arrives in August and will run on B5 biodiesel. No official fuel economy figures were available, but we’d guess 20 to 21 city, 28 to 29 highway for the inline Five—nd probably well north of 40 mpg for the diesel. We drove the Sportwagen near here in the rolling countryside of Virginia, at the edge the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 170-hp 2.5 SE, VW says, sprints to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. No official numbers on the Turbo, but it felt noticeably quicker, smoother and more responsive. Jetta Sportwagens all have MacPherson struts in front and independent multilink rear suspension that’s taut and supple, but not too stiff.

The Jetta’s power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering is crisp, with nice on-center feel, just enough boost and a reasonably quick turn-in. It’s definitely a driver’s car, with an adjustable steering wheel, a well-placed dead pedal and firmly supportive buckets. And the brakes hauled both Jettas down repeatedly on twisty Virgina backroads, with no judder or fade. The Jetta Sportwagen is in many ways like a junior-league Audi. Visually, this is a high-quality piece—the interior and exterior panel gaps are perfect, and it has that just-short-of-luxurious feel. Bottom line: We’re impressed. Once again, Volkswagen has found a way to deliver impressive German-style performance at an affordable price. Close your eyes (although we don’t recommend it at speed) and there’s that unmistakable, rock-solid feel you get in competitive models from Ingolstadt, Munich or Stuttgart, but for much less money. You really have to turn around to realize you’re in a station wagon. But you are. Plus, it delivers 32.8 cu. ft. of cargo volume with the rear seats up. Fold them flat and there’s a whopping 66.9 cu. ft. And this puppy is classified as a compact car? Not in our book. The Sportwagen’s standard equipment list runs deep. Options include a huge Power Sliding Panoramic sunroof, a touchscreen nav system with an iPod connector or a console-mounted CD changer and a rearview camera. As yet, we won’t get “4MOTION,” VW’s all-wheel drive system. Apparently European demand is so high, we colonists will have to wait a while. Drat. At last November’s SEMA show in Vegas, Volkswagen previewed a lowered 2009 TDI Sportwagen with Brembo brakes, H&R sport springs and 19-inch alloys. It looked way cool. But the fact is, even a stock Jetta Sportwagen looks hip—especially in black. Prices start at $19,000. —Ken Gross

VW Jetta 2009

2008-04-11T00:54:00.000-07:00

The new era of clean diesel in America will officially be ushered in by the new VW Jetta TDi when it goes on sale in a few months. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-banger that produces 140 hp and 236 lb.-ft. of torque, it will be the first automobile to meet the world’s most stringent emission control standards, California’s Tier II, Bin 5.

Although it won’t be wearing the “BlueTec” badge, the Jetta will be using emission-cleansing technologies developed under the cooperative formed by Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen to make it 50-state legal. Most BlueTec vehicles control NOx emissions—one of the biggest environmental hurdles facing diesels, along with particulate matter—by injecting a urea-based solution into the exhaust system upstream from the catalytic converter, where NOx is then converted into nitrogen and water. The Jetta will instead use a NOx-storage catalyst, which is basically a reservoir that temporarily holds the noxious emissions, like a particulate filter, until they can be burned off during one of the engine cycles.

In addition, the new engine will feature a common-rail fuel injection system, instead of VW’s traditional mechanical system, that uses piezoelectric fuel injectors. This technology permits higher injection pressures, which better atomize the fuel and make it easier to control pollution.

We recently test drove the Jetta through the streets of San Francisco and were pleasantly surprised. The Jetta has always been agile and zippy, but the new, more powerful TDi gives it more oomph, allowing us to power through traffic and accelerate from stoplights with authority and a little bravado—we totally tooled on a Toyota Prius. We were also shocked as to how quiet the engine operates: You have to consciously listen for the knocking, or you wouldn’t even notice it.

If reports are correct, the Jetta should get upwards of 50 mpg, combined highway and city. Although pricing hasn’t been announced, expect it to be within a few thousand of the current models (an estimated $18,000 to $23,000). We can’t wait for chance to spend some more time with the new TDi Jetta—and test its real-world feul economy. —Chuck Tannert

source: www.popularmechanics.com Apr. 7th 2008

410 Ribu VW Passat Ditarik dari Pasaran

2008-04-09T18:28:00.000-07:00

Demi keamanan dan kenyamanan pelanggannya, pihak Volkswagen menarik varian Passat bermesin bensin yang terjual di Amerika Serikat pada tahun 1999 hingga 2005, dengan jumlah mencapai 410 ribu unit, untuk diperiksa. Mobil-mobil tersebut akan diteliti menyangkut tiga isu yang dikhawatirkan berpotensial merugikan konsumen.

Untuk varian transmisi otomatis, pihak VW akan melakukan pemeriksaan pada bagian firewall (passive fire protection) . Pihak VW mengkhawatirkan adanya kerusakan pada bagian firewall di sekitar catalytic converter. Jika ditemukan kerusakan, bagian tersebut akan dilapisi kembali.

Kemudian, untuk varian Passat dengan kapasitas mesin 1.8 liter yang dilengkapi turbo-four akan mendapatkan pemeriksaan kerusakan atau cacat produksi di bagian jalur bahan bakar. Terakhir, varian all-wheels drive Passat akan diteliti kemungkinan kerusakan pada jalur ventilasi tanki bahan bakar.

Meskipun terdapat sejumlah kemungkinan kerusakan tersebut, tapi tidak ada laporan mengenai korban luka ataupun kecelakaan akibat isu tadi. (Leftlane/GLO) ..

sumber: Kompas.com Senin, 7 April 2008

Partshop List in Indonesia

2008-03-25T23:17:00.000-07:00

(Daftar toko suku cadang VW)

Jakarta
PT. Wolfsburg Auto Indonesia
Jl. Danau Sunter Barat Blok A4/4
Sunter - Jakarta Utara
Telp / Fax - 65834165
Spare Parts - (Fast moving) untuk New POLO, New BEETLE, The GOLF, The PASSAT
email: carassid@indosat.net.id
Contact : Riki

Pasar Mobil Kemayoran
Blok S 111-C Jakarta
Telp / Fax. (021) 654 3703
Contact: Patricia

Istana Motor
Atrium Plaza Lt.5 Blok C.18-Jakarta
Telp. (021) 384 8173 - HP. 0816 1905 736
email: istanaterataimotor@yahoo.com
Contact: Suhendra Sidharta

Kusuma Motor
Spare parts and accessories
Atrium Plaza Lt.5-Jakarta
Telp. (021) 384 6713
Contact: A Yung

Blok S. 99 - Pasar Mobil Kemayoran - Jakarta
Telp : (021) 6544487 - 654 3573
Contact: Akiun

Jaya Motor
Atrium Plaza Lt.5 Blok C.6-Jakarta Telp. (021) 352 3750 / 80
Contact: Leo

Central Motor
Spare parts and accessories
jl Sukarjo Wiryopranoto no 30-36 Blok A1-2. Jakarta
Telp: 3813106 fax: 3812228
email: cyber_toon@hotmail.com
contact: Idris

Rezeki Motor
Blok A. 25 Pasar Mobil Kemayoran - Jakarta
Telp. (021) 654 3286 / 0862
Contact: A Liong

Eka Adi Makmur
Atrium Plaza Lt.5 Blok C.93-Jakarta
Telp. (021) 351 6506
Contact: A Eng

Mulia Abadi
Jl. Radio Dalam 61 FF-Jakarta Selatan
Tlp (021) - 724 6809 Fax (021) -725 5432
email: s_abet@hotmail.com
contact: Abet

Karunia Jaya Motor
Spesialis: Barang bekas original, Vintage, New, acessories
Atrium Plaza Lt. 5 Blok E / 95 - Jakarta
Telp / Fax : (021) 3459028
Contact: A Hoy

Cipete Motor
Psr. Cipete Blok A No.48 / 67
Jl. Raya Fatmawati
Jakarta Selatan
Telp. (021) 7222092
Contact: Asiung

New Jaya Motor
Psr. Cipete Blok AKS No.76
Jl. Raya Fatmawati
Jakarta Selatan
Telp / Fax.(021) 7211884
HP. 0812 9022 255
Contact: Sandri / Asan

Toko Makmur VW
Spesialis untuk barang langka / vintage (baru/bekas), type 1,2,3,ghia & accecoriesnya.
Terima jual, beli, titip (konsinyasi).
Lt. 5 - Atrium Segitiga Senen, Jakarta
Telp: (021) 3846452 - HP. 0811 974 285
contact: Achan

Bursa Loak Dimos 2000
Khusus jual barang-barang eks pakai (used parts) untuk VW. Engine Parts, Body Parts, Elect. Parts, Trans. Parts, Susp. Parts dsb.
Pondok Bambu Batas 7A Kalimalang
Jakarta Timur

Kios Proyek Senen, Blok V Lt. 3
No. I-10 / 5-6, Jakarta Pusat
Telp. : 021-86608265 Fax: 021-8613549 HP: 0812-903-4883
email : dini_motor@hotmail.com
dimos2k@yahoo.com website : dimos-ws
Contact: Bang Ali

Viva Widjaja
Spare parts and accessories
Jl. Sukarjo Wiryopranoto No. 83 Jakarta
Telp. 6008288, 6295485 Fax : 6245405
email: harniza@cbn.net.id
Contact : John

Jawa Barat

BANDUNG
Kosambi Express
Parts vw & Accessories
Jl. Ahmad Yani No. 86-88 (dekat Pasar Kosambi) Bandung
Telp.: 022-7305263
Fax. 022-7312928
Contact : Suenardie Wangsa

Garage sale VCB
Spare part,acessoris,car sale,atribut Volkswagen
Jl.Kebon Waru Utara no 3 Bandung
Telp. 022-7217257 / HP. 0816615716
email: dennybaik@hotmail.com
contact: Deni Buceng

Irian Motor
Jl. Suniaraja (Dekat stasiun kota Bandung) Telp. (022) 420 1855 Servo
Jl. Wastukancana-Bandung
Telp. (022) 436 716 / 434 061

Gudang Asesoris VW Ori - T3 - VW Variant
Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No. 187 - Bandung
HP. 0811-96 90 96
Fax. (022) - 2501429
Contact: Harjanto Partosiswojo
Menjual asesoris original VW, terutama VW Variant

Ngoro
Production Engine Part Type III (Variant), Diskbrake Rear& Front Plus HandBrake, Replica Accesories Type I, II & III Two Barrels Dellorto w/ Ram Port (Polish)
Jl. Rambutan 19 Bandung
Tlp: 022-7204243 Fax: 022-7204243
email: ngoro@sp.itb.ac.id
contact: Henggi P K

Saudara Motor
Sindang kasih No. 652 Cikoneng-Ciamis, Tasikmalaya
telp: (0265) 336638
contact: Asep / Heri

Tiga Doea
2nd part, accessories, etc
JL. Terusan Buah Batu No.32 Cipagalo
(dkt gerbang tol Buah Batu Bandung)
Tlp (022) - 7501153 / 08164203942
email: dhie_01@yahoo.com
contact: Ifan/Adi

VW only
Jl. BKR No. 102, Bandung
Telp. (022) 5203368 atau
Dodi HP: 0812 230 8661

Jawa Tengah

SEMARANG
Duta Motor
Jl. MT Haryono no. 614 Semarang
Telp: (024) 541730
contact:A Chuan
Jago Motor
Jl. Pemuda no. 44 Semarang
Telp: (024) 546157
contact: Frans / A Ling

Jawa Timur

SURABAYA
Galery Kodok
Gear box beetle, bus, variant, final gear 3,88 ;4,125 & gear box 091
Darmo Permai Timur 6/9 ,Surabaya
Telpon: 081-8313181
email: bimo_theturboman@hotmail.com
contact: Bimo
UD Fajar Motor
Berdagang sparepart VW
Jalan Bubutan 21 - Surabaya
Telp: 031-5342419
Fax: 031-53115914

Bali

DENPASAR
SENTOSA MOTOR
Jl. Imam Bonjol 25 A Denpasar
Tlp. 0361 485525 pager 0361 13011 psw 9650526
DJAGO MOTOR
Jl. Setiabudi No 40 Denpasar
Tlp 0361 421929
SUMATRA MOTOR
Jl. Imam Bonjol No 99 Denpasar

Kalimantan

Samarinda
EFA Autoshop
Jual segala parts VW
asesoris mobil VW dan Non VW
Samarinda Central Plaza Lt.1
Depan HERO
Samarinda
Telp. (0541) 748664
Contact: Fredrick, Adi
email: vw_comby2700@yahoo.com

Sumatra Utara

MEDAN
BINTANG TERANG
Jl. Semarang Medan - Sumatera Utara
Telp: (061) 4570847
contact:Aseng / Ationg

VW Workshop Indonesia

2008-03-25T23:04:00.000-07:00

(Bengkel VW)

Jakarta
JAKARTA SELATAN

HANTU LAUT
Jl. H. Zeni No. 4 - H. Nawi - Jakarta Selatan
Telp. (021) 739 3613
Spec: Engine, Electrical, Suspension, Transmission
Contact: Haryanto
OTORESTO
Jl. R. C Veteran Gg. Ropiah No. 13 - Bintaro, Jakarta Selatan 12330
Telp: (021) 7343426, Fax. : (021) 722 3623
Spec: Restoration, Body & Paint, Engine
email: cservice@otoresto.com
http://www.otoresto.com
Contact: Binky, Dedi

L A 40
Jl. Lenteng Agung No. 40 - Depok
Telp. (021) 786 8603
Spec: Engine, Electrical, Body & Paint
Contact: Didi Wiroto, Bambang
NEWSPEED
Jl. H. Sahrin No.3C Kebayoran Baru - Jakarta Selatan
Telp. (021) 725 3612
e-mail : newspeed@catcha.com
Spec: Parts, Service, Bodyshop
Contact: Didit Aditiawan
ROLLY MOTOR
H.Abdul Majid Raya No. 21 B, Jakarta Selatan
Telpon: 021 7232842
Spec: Body, Paint, Interior, Engine, Modification
Contact: Rolly Sanger
SUKARDI AUTO SPEED
Jl. H. Noin 56 - Ragunan - Jakarta 12550
Telp. (021) 781 8915
Spec: Engine, Electrical, Painting
Contact: H. Sukardi
PEJATEN 34
Jl. Pejaten Barat 34 - Jakarta Selatan
Telp. (021) 717 90176
e-mail : pejaten34@mydotcomaddress.com
Spec: Engine
Contact: Tata
BooGie Auto's
Jl Raya Lenteng Agung No 51
(PLN dekat Tanjung Mas Raya)
Jakarta Selatan
Telp. / Fax. (021)78840140
email: boogieautos@yahoo.com
Spec: Custom, paint & body repair,
engine, suspension, wiring, interior
show & race.
Contact: Raka / Boltje (0817 807 077)
Giman (08174831532)
P.T. INREMCO
Jl. MT.Haryono kav 4-7 Jakarta Selatan 12830
Telp: 021-8301105-07-8303677-8303542 Fax: 021- 8301112
e-mail: aldyhg@indosat.net.id
Spec: Engine,Body Repair&Paint,Electical Suspention
Contact: Happy.S
MULIA ABADI
Jl. Radio Dalam 61 FF
Jakarta Selatan
Telp: (021) 7246809 Fax: 7255432
e-mail: s_abet@hotmail.com
Spec: Engine, Suspension, Electrical
Contact: Abet
HOUSE OF GHIA
Jl TB Simatupang No 10a Cilandak II Jakarta Selatan
telpon: 021-7890595 fax: 021-7890595
email: budi171064@hotmail.com
Spec: Body repair Cat oven, dan juga perbaikan mesin
contact: Tomm / Dolly
PARMA's VOLKSWAGEN
Jl. Empang Tiga 21 Kalibata Pasar Minggu Jakarta Selatan
Telp: 62 21 7989625 / 62 21 87754479
email: Pheot99@yahoo.com
Spec: Engine, Suspension
Contact: Suparman (Mr. Black)
TERANG JAYA MOTOR
JL. RE. Martadinata 1A Ciputat (samping Mercy )
Telp. : 021-74706333
Spec: VW Parts & Services
contact: Ahua TONS AUTO BODY
JL. OTISTA NO. 24, CIPUTAT 15411
telpon: 021-7498179
spec: RESTORASI, PENGECATAN, PERBAIKAN
contact: TONO
CHIMITABI
Body Repair & Painting Specialist
Jl. Wijaya XVI/2, Kebayoran Baru Jakarta - 12160
Telp. 021-722.1619 / 0811.950.579
email : chimitabi@hotmail.com
Contact : Tur Anggono
PANEL - 1
Jl. Sultan Iskandar Muda No.8 (Arteri Pondok Indah) Jakarta Selatan
Telpon: 021-7238724 / 7292642
email: autobahn@cbn.net.id lpold2001@yahoo.com
Spec: painting - Colour Effect
contact: Irwan Sudharma - Paul Leopold
JACK FRUIT
Jalan Nangka 25, Jakarta
HP - 0817780180
Spec : Engine and Body works
Contact : Jarot N H R
Jl. Pekayon 1- Jakarta Selatan
Telp. & Fax. (021) 780 4256
Spec: Engine, Electrical, Suspension
Contact: Ananda
JAVANA VOLKSWAGEN WORKSHOP
Jl. Duren Tiga Selatan No.8
Jakarta Selatan
HP. 08188118576, 0811162281, 08129349099
Spec: Full Restoration, Body & Engine Repair, Interior, Car wash, Service AC/Pasang baru
Contact: Indra Sanjoto, Chandran
http://www.geocities.com/javana_vw/index2.html
email : indrasanjoto@cbn.net.id
EDI PRIJONO MOTOR
Jl. RC Veteran Gg.Bhakti No.10 Bintaro Jakarta-Selatan 12330 (dekat IKPN, Hero Bintaro)
Telp. : 021-7342270
email: eldisfam@cbn.net.id
spec: Super Quality Gearbox, General Repair : engine, electrical system (std VW), body repair, front axle - rear axle.
Sejak tahun 1968 khusus VW Melayani service 24 jam, pelayanan darurat ( plus ongkos transport )
contact : H. Edi Prijono

JAKARTA PUSAT
DARMA MOTOR
Jl. Percetakan Negara 2 - Jakarta Pusat
Telp : (021) 428 71636
Spec: Engine, Electrical, Body restoration
Contact: Erwin, Willy
ASIONG/JHONNY
Proyek Senen Blk III Lt.3 - Jakarta Pusat
telp: 021-4214013
Spec: Transmission, Wiring, Engine, Suspension
Contact: Asiong/Jhonny

JAKARTA BARAT
Auto Start
Jl. Srengseng No. 44 Jakarta - Barat
Fax: (021) 594 90 537
HotLine. HP. 0812 94 75 011
Spec: Restoration, Resto Vintage, Custom, Engine, Wiring, Transmision, Suspension
Email : esubakah@yahoo.com
Contact: Ekki

JAKARTA TIMUR
AutoMotion
Jl. Putri Tunggal No 2
Harja Mukti Cimanggis, Cibubur
Telp: (021) 8734626 atau 8734627
Fax: (021) 8733173
Spec: Body Repair, Painting, Engine Modification.
Contact: Agung Nugroho (08161422448)
DIMOS
Jl. Pondok Bambu Atas No. 7A
Jakarta Timur 13430
Telp. (021) 866 08265 Fax. (021) 861 3549
e-mail: dini_motor@hotmail.com dimos2k@yahoo.com
Website : http://dimos-ws.tripod.com
Spec: Electrical, Engine, Transmission, Modification, Buggy Specialist
Contact: M. Ali
WEISMANN MOTOR
Komp. Indam No. 37 Cililitan,
Jakarta 13640
Telpon: (021) 801.4365
e-mail: erryvw@hotmail.com
Spec: aksesoris dan engine
Contact: Ferry
SEKAR AUTOMOBILE WORKSHOP
Jl.Raya Pelni-Pondok Duta#8 , Tugu , Cimanggis 16951
Telp. : 62-21-8724682
Fax: 62-21-8714034
e-mail: sekar@cabi.net.id
Spec: Body repair , painting , interior , engine repair , suspension system repair , wiring and auto servicing
Contact: Prasistiyo JTA
TRIO MOTOR
Jl. Masjid Kamp. Gedong, Pasar Rebo, Jakarta Timur, Indonesia
Telp. : 62-21-9163553
Spec: Engine, Engine Conversion, Gearbox, Suspension, Body Repair
contact: Bengkih
KARAN AUTOWORKS
Jl.Kelapa Dua Wetan / Jl. Asem 99
Telp / Fax : 021 - 87710058
spec: Modifikasi ,Restorasi & Perawatan VW utk Street , Show & Race
contact: Yudho HP - 08159935151
Email : yudhovw@hotmail.com
GATYA Motorworks
Jl. Basuki Rahmat No. 46, Jakarta Timur
Telp : 08161163474
spec: Engine Std., Performance, Body Repair, Wiring, Interior, Suspension, Modification
contact: Mr Nano W.
Office Address : Jl. Otto Iskandardinata III H. 124 Komp. IV AD. Jakarta 13340
Aresto Motor
Jl. Raya Pondok Gede No.28
Jakarta Timur
HP. 0818 663 245 Fax. 021 - 7815246
Contact: Ary
Spec: Engine, maintenance
perbaikan, perawatan, kaki-kaki, dll

DEPOK / TANGGERANG
SINAR MOTOR
Jl. Margonda Raya, Gg. Langgar / Mawar No.4 Kemiri muka Depok (depan pomp bensin - 100 m)
Telp : 021-7863422
Contact: Bp. H. Mama
spec: Engine Std, Performance, Body Repair, Wiring, Interior, Suspension, Modification
NEW KOLNER
Jl. Cipondoh Raya No. 22
Tangerang ( sebelah bengkel motor SUZUKI ) atau dkt warung Bingung
Telp. 70755378
Mekanik : Tambe
Spec: Engine Std, Wiring.
Email : achong647@yahoo.co.id
Spec: Engine Std, Wiring, Suspension, Modification

BEKASI
GHIA MOTOR
Jl. Kemang Sari Raya Jati Kramat,
Jati Asih - Bekasi
HP. 0812 9302 563
Contact: UJANG ghia
Spec: Restorasi All VW / Karman ghia,
Specialist Karman ghia or type III
OTTOPRO 17
Jl. Raya Cikunir 17
Cikunir - Bekasi
HP 0816 142 5511
Contact : Satya Murfy
email : engineering@ptbck.com
Spec: Body repair specialist & Engine
TEDDY MOTOR
Jl. Raya Jatibening II No.29 - Bekasi
(021) 9144562
Contact: Teddy / Pram
email: teddymotor@yahoo.com
Khusus semua jenis VW ...Special for your VW......
YAGI MOTOR
Jl. Jatimakmur No 6. Pondok Gede.
Bekasi
Telp. (021) 8488312 - Fax. (021) 84970917
Contact: Faris Fahlevi / Mr. Cucu
email: yagimotor@yahoo.com
spec: Body repair, Restorasi, Engine
Nice n comfortable workshop for your lovely cars
MINUTE MOTOR SPORT
Jl. Galaksi IV No.356 - Bekasi Barat
Telp. / Fax. 021-8207806
Contact Person : Jaja Mirza
email: trompel74@yahoo.com
Spec: Perawatan dan modifikasi vw serta merk lain utk street, strip, show dan race

BOGOR
TZAR MOTOR
Jl. Raya Taman Cimanggu no. 36 - Bogor
Telp: (0251) 351326
e-mail: aswin@gudeg.net
Spec: Engine Repair and Stock to High Performance, Restoration, Modification & Painting
Contact: Orrie & Endai
DJAMSARIE INTERIOR
Jl. R.E. Martadinata No.12, Bogor
HP. 0818-704886
Spesialis interior VW segala tipe, custom/orisinil Kodok all in (plafon, doortrim, jok, karpet) Rp. 4.000.000,- Kombi all in Rp. 5.000.000,-
Contact: Djamsarie
Email : derkafervw@yahoo.com

Jawa Barat

BANDUNG
DA-Eng BDG ( DA-Engineering Bdg )
Jl. Terusan Jakarta Utara No.3 Bandung
HP. 0817 202107
Contact person : Henggi P. Kusmanto
email: henggi@eapo.or.id
Spec: VW Engine & Transxale builder for Stock & Racing also Body Repair
SERVO
Jl. Wastukancana Bandung
Telp. (022) 436 716 / 434 061
Spec: Engine Repair, Body Maintenance, Electrical.
six-NERGY+ restoration
Jl. Cikutra Baru Permai no. 28F BANDUNG
Handphones : +628122414129 (Andri), +62818431598 (Hebat)
Spec. : Body, Suspension and Engine Repair also Performance Division
eMail : sixnergy_plus@yahoo.com
VW 100 %
Jl. Aceh 66B Bandung
HP. 0815 6202 666 - 0816615716
email: dennyvwbaik@yahoo.com
Contact: Deni Buceng
Engine & Body Repair, Restoration
Spare part, acessoris,car sale, atribut VW
AANG MOTOR'S
JL. Lombok no.18, Bandung
Telp: (022)4205378, (022)5404404, 08122346322 Fax : (022)5409326
e-mail : Holden66stwg@hotmail.com
Contact: Aang
Spec: Engine Repair, Body Repair VW and others old cars
EBEN TEKNIK
Jl.Terusan Jakarta Utara no .5 Bandung. (022)4205378/08122346322
email : jhonyhandsome@hotmail.com
Contact: Mr.Davi
Spec: Engine repair,modifikasi,body repair,spare part
T III
VW BUAH BATU
Jl. Terusan Buah Batu (dekat pintu tol Buah Batu)
Telp: 0812-2344842
Contact: Ucuy
Spec: Body Repair, Engine, dll.
VW HOUSE
Jl. Cibogo Atas No. 17 Sarijadi
Bandung 40163
Telp: 022-219441/081 1200407
Contact: ANTO
Spec: Engine, Body Repair, Painting & Modification
email: vwhouse@mailcity.com
SSS (Sadang Serang Service)
Jl Sadang Serang depan kantor Satelindo)
Telp: 022-2500738 / 0811213517
e-mail: Jhonyhandsome@hotmail.com
Contact: Bapak Budi
Spec: Service, Pengecatan, Body repair, Engine repair
VW ONLY
Jl. BKR 102
Telp: 022-5203368
Contact: Agus Purwanto
Spec: Mesin, Electrical, Spare parts, dll
PADASUKA MOTOR
Jl. Ahmad Yani telp: 022-708156
Contact: Cecep Auri
spec: mesin, pelistrikan, kaki-kaki, rem, layanan panggilan.
MOBILKU
Jl Sukaraja II No 1
Bandung 40174
Ph ( 022 ) 6004494 / ( 022 ) 70433322
Vintage Restoration, Body Repair Spesialist & Bursa VW Vintage parts.
email:priyadi@lawyer.com

TASIKMALAYA
BY PASS MEKANIK
Jln. By Pass Tasikmalaya
Contact: Ujang Roni Saudara Motor
Jl.Sindangkasih No. 652
Cikoneng - Ciamis
Telp. / Fax (0265) -311433
HP. 0812 2323 697
Contact : Heri
email: tewaak@hotmail.com

Jawa Tengah

SEMARANG / BANYUMAS
Bengkel Specialis VW
Jl. Guntur no.29 Gajah Mungkur Semarang
Telp: 024-312838, 7625563
Spec: vw engine service and builder
Contact: Tito, Agus cilik
Adi Sarana Motor
Jl. Imam Bonjol 166- Semarang
Telp. (024) 545042
Spec: Engine, Suspension
Contact: Toni Hartono
Bengkel VW - Nardi
Jl Karang Jambu
Banyumas - Purwokerto
Telp (0281) 623805
Spec: Engine, Electrical, Body & Paint
Contact : Bagyo HP - 0815 698 3776
email: di2nsam@yahoo.com [ BVC 033 ]
Yudi Motor Sport (YUMOS)
Jl. Pedurungan Kidul No. 27, Semarang
Telp. 024-6703725, 70199190
Contact : Yudi - 0811 299 190
Spec: Body Repair, Audio, Body Limousine,
Wiring, Accesories
email: yumos_vw@yahoo.co.id

Yogyakarta
M B G Speed
Jl. Ring Road Barat, Salakan - Yogyakarta
Telp. & Fax. (0274) 581210
Spec: Engine, Modification, Restoration, Race Fuels, Accessories.
Contact: Subagio
B & B AUTO SPORT
Ring Road Kaliurang
(samping Timur KALEDIA), Yogyakarta
email: biies@telkom.net
HP. 08122942917 atau 08562902181
Contact: Bukbis / Catur
Spec: Engine Stock to High Performance, Gear Box, Suspension Mode, Electrical
Contact: Bukbis, Catur
OTOMANIA / FLAT FOUR
Jl Ring Road Utara No 12A Maguwoharjo Yogyakarta 55282
Fax. (0274) 895230 HP: 0816 685 966
Spec: Engine Repair, Car Restoration & Painting
Contact: Ipank
AVI'S
Jl. Ringroad Utara No.10, Maguwoharjo, Yogyakarta 55282
Telp: 0274-896036
email: yogakartika@yahoo.com
Spec: Engine repair, Restoration, Painting & Car Washing
Contact: Yoga-Ipank
Hussein Workshop
Jl. Wonosari km.8 Potorono, Yogyakarta
Telpon: 081.2295.1469
email: hussein@yahoo.com
Spec: Engine Stock, Elect, Suspension,
Gearbox for Comfortable Daily Use
Contact: Mr Hussein
SMART AUTOWORKS
Jl. Imogiri Timur 151
Giwangan - Yogyakarta
Spec : Body Repair, Painting, Electrical, Suspension, Gearbox
Fax (0274) 374466
HP. 0811 286 870 - 0812 295 7725
Contact: Rosyid

SOLO
VW MARKOEN
Jl. Untung Suropoti No.64
Pasar Kliwon - Solo 57118
Telp. (0271)654691 / 0811263158
email: markoen@hotmail.com
Contact : Markoen Sarjito SA
Spec: Mesin, Electrical, Gearbox, Body
NONO
Ngruki RT 01 / RW 17
Cemani - Solo
HP. 0817 440 506
RISKY (Ono)
Jl. Merak IV/ 6
Solo - Jawa Tengah
Telp. (0271) 7072012
SENO
Perum Griya Yasa
Blok C/13 - Solo
Telp. (0271) 744311 - 0812 2645 374
DARYANTO
Jl. Sombo No. 9
Solo - Jawa Tengah
Telp. (0271) 668622
Pak RADI
Jl. Letjen Suprapto 103
Banyuanyar - Solo
Telp. (0271) 736337
ENTIS
Jl. Maskur 18 Jurug
Solo-Jawa Tengah
Telp. (0271) 652470 - 0812 297 5759

Jawa Timur

SURABAYA
IDHOMOBIL
JL Ketintang Wiyata V no 24, Surabaya
Telpon: 031-8280097
email: idhomobil@yahoo.com
specialisasi: Body Repair, Street Engines, Racing Engines
Contact: Idho (kepick)

SIDOARJO
ASTRAK
Ds. Ketimang, Wonoayu - Sidoarjo
Telp: (031) 8943754 HP. 0813 3065 0781
Spec: Engine repair, Suspension / Understell & Maintenance
e-mail:doi_nya@yahoo.com
Contact: Astrak
YON WORKSHOP [ SVWC ]
Ketimang, Wonoayu, Gangong.
Sidoarjo, Jatim
Telp : (031) 8852605 HP. 0812 1792 843
Spec : Body repair, Painting, Interior, Engine repair, Front-rear axle, Elec. Std VW, Bursa sparepart layak pakai.
Pelayanan 24 Jam khusus Volkswagen
Contact : Yono, Yus & Prabowo

MALANG
R 1432
Jl. Ronggolawe 1, Malang, Jawa Timur
Telpon: 0341 - 354408
email: r1432@hotmail.com
specialisasi: Body repair, engine, painting
Contact: Endi Putrajaya
Putrajaya Paul E Herman
Jl. Kolonel Sugiono (Ex. Gadang) 395 D - Malang - Jawa Timur 65149
Telpon: 0341 - 801011
specialisasi: Engine and Body repair
Contact: Paul

Bali

DENPASAR
DEWANTARA 2000
Jl. Muhammad Yamin IX No. 8, Renon, Denpasar, Bali
Telpon: 08123927274 / 0818349600
Contact: Ketut Dicky
Spec: Restoration, Body and Painting
TARAKAN MOTOR
Jl. P Tarakan No 28 Denpasar
Telpon: 0361 234351 fax: (0361) 234351
email: duarsa@indosat.net.id
Contact: ANGEL
Spec: body repair,engine,modification
MADJID
JL. Siulan Tohpati, Denpasar
Spec: Servive & Maintenance
Contact: MAS MAJID
BALI WISATA
Jl Raya Kuta No 49 ( Depan Gelael - Kuta ) Badung Bali
Telp. : 0361 - 750108
Contact: Theydeck
email: dreamkodok@yahoo.com
Spec: Workshop and Painting
SPECTRUM
Jl. Ratna 101, Denpasar
HP. 08553741414
Spec: Body Repair & Engine
Contact: Kodrat
email: kodrat_vw@yahoo.com
* Tempat mangkal Montogen VW team-Bali
ERY'Z motor
Jl. Raya Pemogan 192, Denpasar
Telp. 0631-725420
Spec : Engine & Suspension
Contact: Edy Ispoyo

Kalimantan

SAMARINDA
N 4 YL - Racing
Jl. AW. Syahranie. Kav 99.
Samarinda, Kaltim
Telp: ( 0541 ) 70778899 - 0813 4751 2141
Contact : Jack / Adit
Spec: Body repair, Restoration, Kaki2, Wiring
Race / Street Use, dll
e-mail : nayl-r123@yahoo.com

Sumatra Utara

MEDAN
SAID MOTOR
Jl.Pabrik Tenun 117 Medan
Sumatera utara
Telp-Fax: (061)4169150
email: yoody_saad@yahoo.com
Contact: Yudy "SAAD"
SAUDARA JAYA
Jl. Madio Santoso 63B Medan
Sumatera utara
Telp-Fax: (061) 6622438
Contact: M. HARDI
Spesialis : Body Repair, modifikasi, engine, wiring
PERAK SERVICE
Jl. Sutrisno 69, Berlian No.1 Medan - Sumatera utara
Telp-Fax: (061) 7353263
Contact: Bp. H.M. Rasyad Lubis
Spesialis : Suspensi, engine, wiring

Jayapura

Papua
Timendo VW classic
Jln. Semeru No.34 Jayapura, Papua
INDONESIA
Telp: (0967)533771
Spesialis : Body Repair
email: tikada@bolehmail.com
Contact: Edmund

iCar = Apple + VW

2008-02-21T20:20:00.000-08:00

What's the first word you would say about the title 'iCar = Apple + VW' ? I would say COOL!!! Really. The first thought in my mind is about the "fresh candy car body painting" that is SO Brilliant fresh new idea such as Apple with iMac & iBook series which famous for its colourful casing in 1998-1999. Then, at the same year (1998), New Beetle was launched by Volkswagen, designed by J Mays and Freeman Thomas at the company's California design studio.
So, related to their history, its logic to make a connection between Apple with its iBook n iMac and VW with its New Beetle.
Wow,this could be a very funtastic car ever!. Just like iMac Mini but it could move and travelled you with new adventure u could never imagine. iCar.. when iCar release? Send email to Steve Jacobs n J Mays.. might be they would interest about this iCar thing. iCar.. iCar .. iCar .. iCar ... iCar .. iCar.. mmmmm..

Picture : lovely VW Beetle and another VW pictures

2008-02-21T05:36:00.000-08:00

Finally, I have finished upload a Thousands hehehe.. pictures, Wallpaper of lovely vw beetle and Others..CLICK THE PICTURE FOR ENLARGE..FREE COPYING...HIGH RESOLUTION... Pokoke klik aja gambarnya pasti langsung nongol gambar aneka vw beetle dan vw lainnya dalam resolusi tinggi 1024 x ,..bisa buat WALLPAPER

click Read more for more pictures

VW recalls New Beetle Triple White for loose spoilers

2008-02-19T00:08:00.000-08:00

Please check your roof-mounted spoiler of your '2008 Volkswagen New Beetle Triple White Special Edition'.
The automaker has issued a recall for 510 MY 2008 vehicles because an incorrect adhesive may have been used to attach the roof spoiler to the car. If that's the case, the spoiler could become loose and either fall off the car or potentially fly off it while moving and become an airborne projectile on the highway. The recall begins February 29th, and VW dealers will replace the roof spoiler, which should avoid any lawsuits from people assaulted with an aerodynamic aid.

[Source: NHTSA via Carscoop]

VOLKSWAGEN / NEW BEETLE 2008

Recall Number: 08V036000

Summary:
ON CERTAIN SPECIAL EDITION TRIPLE WHITE SEDAN VEHICLES, AN INCORRECT ADHESIVE MAY HAVE BEEN USED TO ATTACH THE ROOF SPOILER TO THE REAR GLASS OF THE VEHICLE. IF THE INCORRECT ADHESIVE WAS USED, THE SPOILER COULD BECOME LOOSE OR FALL FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING, EVEN THOUGH INITIALLY THE SPOILER MAY FEEL SECURE.

Consequence:
IF THIS HAPPENS, THE SPOILER COULD CAUSE INJURY BY STRIKING PERSONS OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE OR COULD BECOME AN OBSTACLE TO OTHER DRIVERS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.

Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ROOF SPOILER ON THESE VEHICLES. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT FEBRUARY 29, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.

Notes:
VWOA RECALL NO. 66D1 (Q9). CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

What if Microsoft built Personal Car vs Apple built iCar? (fyi: it's only joke)

2008-02-18T23:52:00.000-08:00

If Microsoft Built Cars...

Every time they repainted the lines on the road, you'd have to buy a new car.
Occasionally your car would just die on the motorway for no reason, and you'd have to restart it. For some strange reason, you'd just accept this, restart and drive on.
Occasionally, executing a maneuver would cause your car to stop and fail to restart and you'd have to re-install the engine. For some strange reason, you'd just accept this too.
Apple would make a car that was powered by the sun, was twice as reliable, five times as fast, twice as easy to drive--but most people wouldn't know it or believe it.
Apple car owners would get expensive Microsoft upgrades to their cars which would make their cars go much slower.
The oil, engine, gas and alternator warning lights would be replaced with a single "General Car Fault" warning light.
People would get excited about the "new" features in Microsoft cars, not knowing that they had been available in Apple's cars for many years.
Microsoft cars would come with 5-year-old Apple car paint jobs, but they'd be the same crappy Microsoft car underneath.
The airbag system would say "Are you sure?" before going off.
If you were involved in a crash, you'd have no idea what happened.Hahhhaaa...

[source: http://macdailynews.com/]

VW Beetle History

2008-02-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

1934 - The idea of the Beetle was born on January 17 1934, when Ferdinand Porsche wrote his ‘Exposé of a German People’s Car’. A people’s car or ‘Volkswagen’ should, he said, be fully adequate and reliable with light construction. It should offer room for four people, reach speeds of up to 100 km/h and be able to overcome gradients of 30 per cent.
1936 - The first prototype was completed on February 5 1936.
1945 - Mass production of the Beetle began in December 1945.
1947 - First exports started in August.
1949 - The first convertible Beetle. Production began to soar.
1950 - The 100,000th Beetle rolled off the line.
1955 - The millionth Beetle.

1967 – Major upgrade including improved clutch, braking system, and rear axles. New standard equipment includes two-speed windshield wipers, back-up lights, sealed-beam headlights and a driver side exterior mirror.
1972 - February 17 1972 the 15,007,034th Beetle made this car a world champion, overtaking the previous production record held by the Ford Model T
1981 – 20 millionth Beetle rolled off the Mexican production line
1998 - Launch of new Beetle. Earlier models up to 2005 used GL, GLS and GLX designations to reflect the various trim levels and the base engine was a 115-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder. A 100-hp 1.9-liter Turbo Direct Injection TDI was also offered until the end of 2006.
1999 – Until 2006 the New Beetle 1.8T was powered by a 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder -150 hp.
2000 - Two new colours for the New Beetle -Vapor Blue and Reflex Yellow - were introduced in limited editions.
2002 - VW added the Turbo S trim to the coupe line-up. It was equipped with a tuned up 180 hp version of the 1.8T turbo engine and a six-speed manual transmission, 17-inch wheels and a leather interior.
2003 - The convertible was launched and the last old Beetle rolled off the production line on Wednesday 30 July. Two new models - the V5 Sport Edition and the Colour Concept are launched. The first is a new version of the Beetle V5 with extras such as two tone heated leather seats.
2005 - The Turbo S was discontinued in 2005.
2006 - The New Beetle received several major updates including an external makeover and a new 5-cylinder engine. The New Beetle also received a new powerplant - a 150-hp, 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine. Its high torque rating—170 lb.-ft. at 3,750 rpm—makes it better suited to 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission than the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder it replaced. The New Beetle is also available with a 5-speed manual.
2007 - A million sales of the new Beetle cars are expected to be reached in 2007. The New Beetle also adds colour choices. Diesel-powered TDI has been dropped.