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I owned a B4 when the B5 was introduced in 1997 and to be quite honest, I didn’t overly like the new version!  I originally thought the front looked too large, almost clumsy looking.  But after seeing some euro-modded B5’s, it quickly grew on me until it totally won me over. 

I knew the B5 would be a great car based on my good experiences with my B4 and previous Volkswagen’s.  And getting power everything, Climatronic standard, and a turbo – WOW!  I just had to get one for myself!  And it had to be a variant since I have not only two children, but two German shepherds as well.  

In the summer of 2000, VW in Sweden was offering B5’s at a special price with 16” Montreal’s, Climatronic, and several other options.  Now was the time!  I couldn’t wait to get a variant with its perfect combination of family utility and sporty good looks.  The only problem was finding one in Blue Anthracite.  I ended up driving 600 km north at a dealership that could get me what I wanted with a fair trade-in price on my B4.  But the good thing about driving 600 km to get my new car was the 600 km drive home!

I already knew what I would do first – window tint.  And just like my B4, I had to get a rear spoiler to accentuate the sporty look of the car.  Then I bought the Kamei grill but it was far too common here so I exchanged it for a Bonrath grill.  I thought I was going to stop modding there but my friends with Audi’s were always talking about how great their cars were running chipped.  So I added a chip.  

Actually, it was right around then that I discovered ClubB5 and benefited from the extensive knowledge of its member base.  I truly appreciate all the information and advice that I have gotten from all of you.  My local VW dealership doesn’t know half of what you know.  The only problem is that my financial situation is getting worse since I found ClubB5!

There are just too many mods that I want to do.  In fact, six months ago I imported a whole new leather/alcantra interior from a wrecked B5 in Germany that took a fair amount of time to work out and install.  How could I ever sell this car after all the time, money and effort that I have put into it?

A few weeks ago I visited Scandinavia’s largest Volkswagen GTG with more than two thousand VW´s!  It felt good to prove that I’m not as odd as my girlfriend thinks I am!  There are actually others like me spending lots of time in the garage and a lot of money on mods and you guys are also proof of this.  I am happy to report that I, like you, have full-blown mod fever!

I’m proud to be the first Swede featured as B5 of the Month. Thanks to all of you at ClubB5 for your continued support.  

- Staffan

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