 I bought this car used and I think that makes a huge difference.  I have (hopefully) avoided the pitfalls that the new owners did and my car is intact and in beautiful shape, inside and out.  I bought some tires and got an alignment and some wipers, but everything else is going smoothly.  I love the way it drives, besides how tight the clutch is.  Everyone thinks it is the cutest thing ever and it is the first car I am proud to drive.  I loved my 97 Golf, but I love this car even more.