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My passion for modifications began at the age of 19 when the 27-year-old 36hp motor in my first car, a 1959 Beetle, died shortly after having purchased it. Paying to have it professionally replaced was simply not an option for a starving college student. Having been a semi-professional bicycle racer and mechanic, I felt confident technically and used the “Idiot’s Guide to VW Repair” to successfully complete two engine swaps (up to 40hp!) and one transmission swap. I’ve had a ‘hands-on’ approach to automobile ownership ever since.

After owning and modifying several cars including MkI and MkII Golfs and Jettas, as well as an Audi Coupe, I moved on to my 2001.5 Passat Variant – “Roxy”. I was a die-hard VW guy so when my lifestyle necessitated more space, a Passat seemed like the clear choice (even though the Audi A4 Avant came in a close second). I chose the variant because I wanted something a bit more unique yet could easily haul the racing bicycles and the tuning potential of the 1.8T sealed the deal.

A little over a year after purchasing Roxy, the mods began. Her very first changes from stock in September 2002 included new 18” Cello wheels and Neuspeed race springs with Koni adjustable dampers. Then came the Zender front spoiler and Neuspeed exhaust before finishing off the remaining Votex body kit and Projektzwo mirrors.

Several modifications followed including an EVO intake with my own custom fabricated heat shield and true cold air piping, VDO gauges, refinished interior hardware and trim throughout, and drilled aluminum pedals that I designed and fabricated myself. The most recent substantial addition to Roxy is an EVO front mounted intercooler to compliment her APR chip and combat the Georgia heat. 

What’s next? It’s taken exactly one year but I think I’m about finished with the major mods. I’ve done about all I wanted to do when I set out. A big brake kit may or may not happen since I’ll never track or autocross this Variant and those new ECS drilled and slotted cadmium plated rotors I installed look pretty cool already. And ICE to me is the sound of the turbo screaming with the windows down while shooting from 40 – 90 mph in a handful of seconds so don’t expect any video displays or 12” subs weighing this variant down.

After 20 years of working on cars, I can honestly say that my greatest satisfaction comes from finding ways to take my modifications to the next level while still keeping it clean. I have done all of the work myself with the exception of the suspension and the chip. Some people just want a cool looking car that drives fast and they will pay someone else to get to that end result. My enjoyment comes from the journey. If I couldn’t do most of the work myself and create original mods along the way, I don’t think I would bother.

I would like to sincerely thank the members and moderators of ClubB5 for all of their support and encouragement over the past year. You have been there for quick advice and assistance when I needed it most. Our cars have broad appeal to all ages and this club is a great avenue to support those passions. It is a great honor for Roxy to be recognized by such an outstanding group. Thanks. 

-Scott 

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