VOLKSWAGEN BORA (2001)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 904 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
904
Avg Mileage
140,916 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 23 years old, 76% of VOLKSWAGEN BORAs from 2001 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 904 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 140,916 miles.
How does the 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA has 140,916 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLKSWAGEN BORA?
The most reliable year is the 2003 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2001 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLKSWAGEN BORA by Year
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN BORA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA
The 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA is a small family car with a 1595cc petrol engine. 904 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2001, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 140,916 miles at 23 years old, VOLKSWAGEN BORA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA Fuel Costs
The 1595cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN BORA Reliability Trend
The VOLKSWAGEN BORA has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA
At 23 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN BORA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2003 model has the highest pass rate at 76%.
Alternatives to the 2001 VOLKSWAGEN BORA
The VOLKSWAGEN BORA is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-5%) from 29,898 tests
- MINI MINI (2003) 72% pass rate (-4%) from 25,713 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2003) 68% pass rate (-8%) from 22,313 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2003) 67% pass rate (-9%) from 21,166 tests