For 1990, the Volkswagen Cabriolet was available in three trim packages -- the base, Best Seller and Boutique. All were powered by a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine that generated 94 hp. It was linked to a standard five-speed manual transmission; a three-speed automatic was available as an option.

Standard features for the Base package were limited, but included power windows, power brakes, power steering, a driver's-side front airbag, an AM/FM/cassette audio system, a rear window defroster, and 14-inch wheels. The Boutique model added leather seats, among other features. Air conditioning was available as an option on all three models.

Many of these cars are still around today, though with high mileage, but generally drivers still find them fairly reliable, though "fit and finish" elements such as door handles, the shifter, and levers for pulling down seats are deteriorating, drivers note. Still, with routine maintenance (which can be expensive), the cars still have some life left in them, and are generally considered to be fun to drive.

The cooling fan is quite often known to go out. Dealer pricing for this part is as high as $355.00, while a person in a shop can get it wholesale for under $60.00. It takes less than an hour to put in and will make the Cabriolet run much cooler on those hot days.