VOLKSWAGEN BORA (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,156 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
2,156
Avg Mileage
141,141 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 75% of VOLKSWAGEN BORAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,156 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 141,141 miles.
How does the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA has 141,141 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-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 2004 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2004 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 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA
The 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA is a small family car with a 1595cc petrol engine. 2,156 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 141,141 miles at 20 years old, VOLKSWAGEN BORA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 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 2004 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 75% 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 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA
At 20 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 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BORA
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2006) 73% pass rate (-2%) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+5%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 35,054 tests