Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
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Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews

In September 1998, the German concern Volkswagen introduced a new model of the VW Bora sedan, named after the icy wind blowing from Europe to the Italian Adriatic. The VW Golf IV hatchback was used as the base platform, which at one time gave the name to a whole class of cars. Serial production of VW Bora began in 1999 and continued until 2007.

The evolution of the Volkswagen Bora

The VW Bora sports five-seat sedan immediately made an impression with its strict forms, a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines, a chic leather interior, speed and throttle response.

The history of the Volkswagen Bora

VW Bora was not a completely new car - in it the concern combined the familiar outlines of the Audi A3, the latest generation Volkswagen Käfer, the Škoda Octavia and the Seat Toledo of the second series.

Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
In Russia, several tens of thousands of VW Bora of the first generations still delight their owners with reliability, comfort and recognizable design.

Two body styles were presented:

  • four-door sedan (the very first versions);
  • five-door station wagon (one year after the start of serial production).

Compared to the base platform of the VW Golf, the changes affected the length of the body, the rear and front of the car. Front and side, the silhouette of the VW Bora is a bit reminiscent of the fourth generation Golf. However, there are also noticeable differences. When viewed from above, the car has a wedge shape. Powerful sides of the wheel arches and a short upturned rear stand out from the side, and wide-spaced large wheels 205/55 R16 attract attention from the front. The shape of the headlights, hood and fenders was changed, completely new front and rear bumpers and a radiator grille appeared.

Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
Strict design and recognizable front end distinguishes VW Bora in the traffic

In general, the design of the VW Bora was designed in a classic, simple style. Due to the increase in the length of the body made of galvanized steel, resistant to moisture, the volume of the trunk has increased to 455 liters. The manufacturer's warranty against perforation corrosion was 12 years.

Characteristics of VW Bora of different generations

In addition to the base model, three more modifications of the VW Bora were produced:

The VW Bora Trendline was a sporty version of the base model. The car was equipped with Avus light alloy wheels and ergonomic front seats with adjustable height.

Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
VW Bora Trendline was distinguished by its dynamics, sporty look and well-thought-out safety system for the driver and passengers.

The VW Bora Comfortline version was designed for comfort lovers. The interior of the car was a combination of high-tech materials and ergonomic design:

  • all seats, steering wheel and shifter were trimmed in leather;
  • in the backs of the front seats with electric heating, adjustable lumbar supports were installed to prevent back fatigue;
  • two climate control modes became available;
  • electric window lifts and chrome door handles were installed;
  • exterior mirrors were heated and electrically adjustable;
  • black wood inserts appeared on the front panel;
  • a five-inch monitor on the dashboard displayed the parameters of the audio system from 10 speakers and a multi-channel amplifier, as well as satellite navigation;
  • a windshield wiper with a rain sensor, which automatically turns on as needed, appeared.
Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
VW Bora Comfortline had a luxury interior with an original design of the steering wheel, gear lever and front panel

For the most demanding customers, the VW Bora Highline model was designed with low-profile tires and Le Castellet alloy wheels. The car received powerful fog lights, and the door handles on the outside were trimmed with precious wood inserts.

Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
VW Bora Highline was designed for the most demanding customers

Inside, the seats, dashboard and center console have become more refined. There was an on-board computer, a central lock controlled from a key fob, a multifunctional security alarm system and other technical innovations.

Video: Volkswagen Bora skyline

Volkswagen Bora - full review

Features of the VW Bora lineup

For more than twenty years of production history, Volkswagen has released several dozen versions of the Bora, designed for different consumers. Under the name VW Bora, cars were sold in the markets of the European Union and Russia. VW Jetta were supplied to North and South America. The last name after 2005 was assigned to all versions of cars sold on four continents. The variety of Bora and Jetta models was due to the possibility of installing different (in terms of power, fuel, number of cylinders, injection system) engines, automatic and manual gearboxes, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. However, all versions had a number of constant characteristics. This:

Table: Volkswagen Bora specifications

EngineТрансмиссияExploitationDynamics
Volume

liter
HP power/

speed
Fuel/

system type
A typePPCDrive unityears

release
equipment

she

weight, kg
Fuel consumption, l / 100 km

highway/city/mixed
Maximum

speed, km/h
Acceleration to

100 km/h sec
1,4 16V75/5000Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, euro 4
L45MKPPFront1998 – 2001 Feet11695,4/9/6,717115
1,6100/5600Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, euro 4
L45MKPPFront1998 – 2000 Feet11375,8/10/7,518513,5
1,6100/5600Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, euro 4
L44AKPPFront1998 – 2000 Feet11686,4/12/8,418514
1,6102/5600Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
L44AKPPFront1998 – 2000 Feet12296,3/11,4/8,118513,5
1,6 16V105/5800Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, euro 4
L45MKPPFront2000 – 2005 Feet11905,6/9,4/719211,6
1.6

16V FSI
110/5800Petrol AI 95/

direct injection,

Euro 4
L45MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet11905,2/7,9,6,219411
1.8 5V 4Motion125/6000Gasoline AI 95 / distributed injection, euro 4L45MKPPFull1999 – 2000 Feet12616,9,12/919812
1.8 5V Turbo150/5700Gasoline AI 95 / distributed injection, euro 4L45MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet12436,9/11/7,92168,9
1.8 5V Turbo150/5700Gasoline AI 95 / distributed injection, euro 4L45AKPPFront2001 – 2002 Feet12686,8/13/8,92129,8
1.9 SDI68/4200Diesel / direct injection, Euro 4L45MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet12124,3/7/5,216018
1.9 SDI90/3750Diesel / direct injection, Euro 4L45MKPPFront1998 – 2001 Feet12414,2/6,8/518013
1,9 SDI90/3750Diesel / direct injection, Euro 4L44AKPPFront1998 – 2001 Feet12684,8/8,9/6,317615
1,9 SDI110/4150Diesel / direct injection, Euro 4L45MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet12464.1/6.6/519311
1.9 SDI110/4150Diesel / direct injection, Euro 4L45MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet12624.8/9/6.319012
1,9 SDI115/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L46MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet12384,2/6,9/5,119511
1,9 SDI100/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L45MKPPFront2001 – 2005 Feet12804.3/6.6/5.118812
1,9 SDI100/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L45AKPPFront2001 – 2005 Feet13275.2/8.76.518414
1,9 SDI115/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L45AKPPFront2000 – 2001 Feet13335.1/8.5/5.319212
1,9 SDI150/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L46MKPPFront2000 – 2005 Feet13024.4/7.2/5.42169
1,9 SDI130/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L46MKPPFront2001 – 2005 Feet12704.3/7/5.220510
1,9 SDI130/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L45AKPPFront2000 – 2005 Feet13165/9/6.520211
1.9 TDI 4Motion150/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L46MKPPFull2001 – 2004 Feet14245.2/8.2/6.32119
1,9 TDI 4Motion130/4000Diesel / pump-injector, euro 4L46MKPPFull2001 – 2004 Feet13925.1/8/6.220210.1
2.0115/5200Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
L45MKPPFront1998 – 2005 Feet12076.1/11/819511
2,0115/5200Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
L44MKPPFront1998 – 2002 Feet12346,8/13/8,919212
2.3 V5150/6000Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V55MKPPFront1998 – 2000 Feet12297.2/13/9.32169.1
2.3 V5150/6000Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V54AKPPFront1998 – 2000 Feet12537.6/14/9.921210
2,3 V5170/6200Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V55MKPPFront2000 – 2005 Feet12886.6/12/8.72248.5
2,3 V5170/6200Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V55AKPPFront2000 – 2005 Feet13327,3/14/9,72209,2
2,3 V5 4Motion150/6000Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V56MKPPFull2000 – 2000 Feet14167.9/15/1021110
2,3 V5 4Motion170/6200Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V56MKPPFull2000 – 2002 Feet14267.6/14/102189.1
2,8 V6 4Motion204/6200Petrol AI 95/

distributed

injection, Euro 4
V66MKPPFull1999 – 2004 Feet14308.2/16112357.4

Photo gallery: VW Bora of different generations

Volkswagen Bora Wagon

In 2001, the line of Volkswagen sedans was replenished with the VW Bora estate model, similar to the fourth generation Golf station wagon with slight differences in equipment. The emerging demand for a five-door model with a roomy interior prompted the concern to start producing such cars in various versions.

The station wagon features the entire range of VW Bora sedan engines, with the exception of the 1,4-liter engine. Units with a capacity of 100–204 liters. With. run on petrol and diesel fuel. It was possible to install a manual or automatic transmission on station wagons, choose a model with front or all-wheel drive. Chassis, suspension, brakes, security systems in all versions were the same and similar to sedan models.

Security systems VW Bora sedan and station wagon Bora

All VW Bora models (sedan and station wagon) are equipped with front front airbags (for driver and passenger), anti-block brake system, supplemented by a brake force distribution system. If in the first generations side airbags were installed only by order of the client, then in the latest models this is done without fail. In addition, high-tech active safety systems are used - the ASR traction control system and the ESP electronic control system.

Video: Volkswagen Bora test drive

Volkswagen Bora tuning parts

You can modify the appearance and interior of the VW Bora yourself. There is a wide range of body kits, license plate frames, bullbars, thresholds, roof rails, etc. on sale. Many car owners buy elements for tuning lighting fixtures, an engine, an exhaust pipe and other components.

In online stores, you can purchase body kits, door sills, moldings from the Turkish company Can Otomotiv for a specific VW Bora model, taking into account the year of manufacture. The products of this company are of good quality and affordable prices.

Advantages of body kits Can Automotiv

The high quality of body kits manufactured by Can Otomotiv is due to the following points.

  1. The company has a European quality certificate ISO 9001 and a patent for individual design.
  2. The accuracy of the geometric shape and dimensions is ensured by the use of laser cutting on CNC machines. This ensures that body tuning elements do not require additional fitting.
  3. Welding work is carried out with the help of robots. The result is a perfectly even seam that provides a reliable and durable connection, smooth to the touch and almost imperceptible.
  4. Powder coating is applied using an electrostatic method, so the manufacturer gives a five-year warranty. This allows you to paint well all joints, depressions and other hidden places, and the coating does not fade even with corrosion and the use of automotive chemicals.

DIY tuning Volkswagen Bora

The range of tuning shops allows the owner of VW Bora to independently transform his car in accordance with his abilities and desires.

Tuning chassis

VW Bora will take on an unusual look if the clearance is reduced by 25–35 mm by installing stiffer front springs. A more efficient option is to use electronically adjustable shock absorbers. These shock absorbers are universal and allow the driver to change the suspension stiffness directly from the passenger compartment - just set the mode switch to one of three positions (automatic, semi-automatic, manual). For VW Bora, shock absorbers from the Samara company Sistema Tekhnologii, manufactured under the brand name SS 20, are suitable. Installing them yourself is quite simple - you need to remove the standard rack and replace the factory shock absorber with an SS 20 shock absorber in it.

To replace shock absorbers you will need:

Work is recommended to be performed in the following order:

  1. Raise the front wheels with a jack to a height of 30–40 cm and place a stop.
  2. Loosen both wheels.
  3. Open the hood and fix the shock absorber rod with a special key.
  4. Loosen the fastening nut with a wrench and remove the engraving washer.
  5. Remove the metal washer and rubber pad from the shock absorber rod.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    For safety, when unscrewing the nuts securing the lower bracket of the rack, use a jack
  6. Place a jack under the bottom of the shock absorber housing.
  7. Unscrew the two nuts securing the shock absorber to the hub and to the arm bracket from below.
  8. Remove the jack and carefully pull out the A-pillar assembly.

The new strut with electronically adjustable shock absorber is installed in reverse order. Before that, you need to stretch the cable from the shock absorber through the engine compartment and the front partition into the car interior.

Video: Volkswagen Golf 3 strut and spring replacement

Engine tuning - heater installation

In severe frosts, the VW Bora engine often starts with difficulty. The problem is solved by installing an inexpensive electric heater with manual activation, powered by a household network.

For VW Bora, experts recommend choosing heaters from Russian enterprises Leader, Severs-M and Start-M. These low-power devices do an excellent job and fit almost all Volkswagen models. Do-it-yourself installation of the heater is quite simple. This will require:

The algorithm of actions is as follows:

  1. Place the car on a viewing hole or drive it onto a lift.
  2. Drain off coolant.
  3. Remove the battery, air filter and air intake.
  4. Attach the mounting bracket to the heater.
  5. Cut the sleeve 16x25 from the kit into segments - input length 250 mm, output length - 350 mm.
  6. Fix the segments with clamps on the corresponding heater pipes.
  7. Insert the spring into the suction pipe.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    The heater is installed with the branch pipe up, and its bracket is fixed on the gearbox mounting bolt to the engine
  8. Install the heater with the bracket horizontally with the outlet pipe up on the gearbox mounting bolt. At the same time, make sure that it does not touch moving parts and components.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    A 16x16 tee is inserted into the section of the hose connecting the expansion tank to the suction line of the water pump
  9. Remove the expansion tank hose from the suction pipe outlet, cut off 20 mm from it and insert a 16x16 tee.
  10. Put on the remaining piece of the sleeve 16x25 60 mm long on the tee.
  11. Push the expansion tank hose with tee onto the suction pipe. The side outlet of the tee must be directed towards the heater.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    The position of the tee 19x16 with a branch directed towards the rear of the engine
  12. Cut the antifreeze supply hose to the interior heater, put clamps on its ends and insert a 19x16 tee. The lateral branch of the tee must be directed away from the engine.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    Position of the inlet sleeve of the heater
  13. Put the inlet sleeve from the heater with a clamp onto the outlet of the tee 16x16. Tighten clamp.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    Position of the outlet sleeve and fixation of the protective material
  14. Put the outlet sleeve from the heater with a clamp onto the outlet of the tee 19x16. Tighten clamp.
  15. Put on the protective material from the kit on the outlet sleeve and fix it at the point of contact with the intake manifold.
  16. Pour antifreeze into the cooling system. Inspect all connections for coolant leaks. If an antifreeze leak is detected, take appropriate measures.
  17. Connect the heater to the mains and check its operation.

Body tuning - installation of door sills

Elements for body tuning are usually sold with detailed instructions, which must be used during installation. Experts recommend that when installing body kits on the body, observe the following rules:

  1. Works should be carried out only at temperatures from +18 to +30оC.
  2. For work, it is desirable to prepare a clean place in the shade. The best option is a garage. The two-composite epoxy adhesive used to glue the overlays hardens within a day. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the car at this time.

To install overlays you will need:

  1. Two-component epoxy adhesive.
  2. Solvent for degreasing the installation site.
  3. Clean rag or cloth to remove dirt.
  4. Brush for mixing and leveling the adhesive components.

Detailed instructions are presented in the form of pictures.

Tuning of salon

When tuning various components of the car, you should adhere to the same style. For tuning the interior of the VW Bora, there are special kits for sale, the choice of which should take into account the year of manufacture and the vehicle's equipment.

Interior flocking

Only highly qualified specialists will be able to replace individual devices or the entire panel with more modern and prestigious options.

With your own hands, you can modify the illumination of devices and make flocking, that is, applying a fleecy coating to plastic surfaces trimmed with thick fabric or wood. The essence of flocking is to use an electrostatic field to place vertically close to each other special villi of the same size. For cars, a flock with a length of 0,5 to 2 mm of different colors is used. For flocking you will need:

  1. Flocator.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    The flokator kit includes a sprayer, a device for creating a static field and cables for connecting the device to the network and the surface to be painted
  2. Flock (about 1 kg).
  3. Adhesive for plastic AFA400, AFA11 or AFA22.
  4. Hairdryer.
  5. Brush for applying glue.

Step by step flocking algorithm

The procedure for flocking is as follows.

  1. Choose a warm, bright room with good ventilation.
  2. Remove and disassemble the element of the interior of the cabin, which will be processed.
  3. Clean the removed and disassembled element from dirt and dust and degrease.
  4. Dilute the adhesive and add dye to control the thickness of the adhesive layer.
  5. Apply glue to the surface of the part in an even layer with a brush.
  6. Pour the flock into the flocator.
  7. Ground the applied layer of glue with a wire with a crocodile.

    Volkswagen Bora: evolution, specifications, tuning options, reviews
    The surface after flocking treatment becomes velvety to the touch and looks quite stylish.
  8. Set the desired power, turn on and start spraying the flock, holding the flocator at a distance of 10–15 cm from the surface.
  9. Blow off excess flock with a hair dryer.
  10. Apply the next layer.

Video: flocking

https://youtube.com/watch?v=tFav9rEuXu0

German cars are distinguished by reliability, high build quality, ease of operation and concern for the safety of the driver and passengers. Volkswagen Bora has all these advantages. In 2016 and 2017, it was produced under the name VW Jetta and was introduced to the Russian market in the sector of luxury and expensive cars with a price of 1200 thousand rubles. The model provides owners with great opportunities for tuning. Most of the work can be done on your own.

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