NAC: Opinions on B4 Passat

[Martin W. N. Suryadarma]

Guys,

Since you're all Audi experts, I'm assuming that most, if not all, of you
know a great deal about VWs as well. What's your opinion on North American
VW Passat B4? I'm kinda interested in them, because first of all, they're
not as expensive as Audis, and they also have some cool engines like TDI
and VR6. Obviously there's no quattro or I-5 turbos in this league. 

Do you think it's a reliable car? Or is it a money pit? What about the TDI
and VR6 engine? Anything to watch for? Is the TDI as good-performing as
the current TDIs inside Golf/Jetta? I already know as much that I should
avoid automatic transmission, which is a no brainer. 

Anyway, thanks in advance for any opinions/infos.

Martin