gills
A2OC Donor
I’ve decided to start the story of my A2 - nicknamed Alan. It’s not really a project car, but my quest to improve its economy and the fact it’s getting under my skin (most of you will know that feeling towards your A2s!) means I am gently tinkering with it. Despite only being bought as cheap transport, it’s turning into a bit of a project by accident.
A bit of background: I bought Alan at the start of the year, having decided to give up using a motorbike for commuting. The cold, wet autumn had got to me and I was increasingly aware that as I got older I didn’t bounce as well, so as/when I came off, it was likely to be more serious! I needed a car that was economical (the bike did 90mpg), was reliable, cheap to run and didn’t cost more to buy than what I could sell the bike for (around £1500). Having had a few VWs and Skodas as family cars over the years, I appreciate the VAG design and build quality, which makes them easier and more pleasant to work on. As a result I was leaning towards something VAG, rather than an Aygo/C1/107, which seemed the most obvious option.
I was aware of the diesel A2 as an interesting and economical option, so had been keeping my eyes open to see if there were any for sale. As luck (or fate?) would have it, an ‘02 TDI (75) came up locally as a private sale. I went to see it and couldn’t believe my luck. Despite having done 150k miles, it was in very good condition, had only had 2 owners, had a full (mostly dealer) service history and seemed a very genuine car. The chap selling it had been given a company car with a new job and couldn't justify keeping the A2 as well (in addition to his existing collection of Landies and a T25!) Needless to say, I didn’t need to think too much about it!
Despite being a little nervous of buying such a high mileage car, I was really pleased with it. After a good wash, it looked great and there didn’t seem to have too many issues that needed attention.
It's an '02 TDI 75 SE with:
A bit of background: I bought Alan at the start of the year, having decided to give up using a motorbike for commuting. The cold, wet autumn had got to me and I was increasingly aware that as I got older I didn’t bounce as well, so as/when I came off, it was likely to be more serious! I needed a car that was economical (the bike did 90mpg), was reliable, cheap to run and didn’t cost more to buy than what I could sell the bike for (around £1500). Having had a few VWs and Skodas as family cars over the years, I appreciate the VAG design and build quality, which makes them easier and more pleasant to work on. As a result I was leaning towards something VAG, rather than an Aygo/C1/107, which seemed the most obvious option.
I was aware of the diesel A2 as an interesting and economical option, so had been keeping my eyes open to see if there were any for sale. As luck (or fate?) would have it, an ‘02 TDI (75) came up locally as a private sale. I went to see it and couldn’t believe my luck. Despite having done 150k miles, it was in very good condition, had only had 2 owners, had a full (mostly dealer) service history and seemed a very genuine car. The chap selling it had been given a company car with a new job and couldn't justify keeping the A2 as well (in addition to his existing collection of Landies and a T25!) Needless to say, I didn’t need to think too much about it!
Despite being a little nervous of buying such a high mileage car, I was really pleased with it. After a good wash, it looked great and there didn’t seem to have too many issues that needed attention.
It's an '02 TDI 75 SE with:
- Climate control
- DIS
- Cruise control
- Multifunction steering wheel
- Rear speakers
- Winter pack (heated mirrors/washers)
- False floor boot
- Original Audi carpet mats