Search Announced For the Oldest and Highest-Mileage Volkswagen Diesel Vehicles

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23, 2007 -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today a national search for two significant vehicles from its diesel-powered past, in celebration of its 30th anniversary of selling diesel-powered passenger cars in the U.S. The announcement, made today at the 2007 Washington Auto Show kicks off searches for the oldest running Volkswagen diesel vehicle and the Volkswagen diesel with the highest accumulated mileage.

"Volkswagen has a long history of selling diesel-powered vehicles in the United States. These durable vehicles are capable of providing years and years of reliable service. We anticipate an enormous response from our owners," said Keith Price, public relations manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc.

The oldest U.S. market diesel Volkswagen search is open to registered, running vehicles. The winner will be determined by the vehicle identification number (VIN). Volkswagen anticipates this vehicle will be a Rabbit diesel, as 12,393 were sold in 1977.

The highest mileage diesel Volkswagen is also open to registered and running vehicles. The mileage must be documented and verifiable with an accurate odometer reading, and supporting historical service records and/or logbook. Both vehicles must be equipped with their original engines.

Beginning March 1, interested owners will be able to submit their information online at www.vw.com. Applicants will complete a form with contact and vehicle data, and upload digital pictures of their diesel Volkswagen. Once a pool of finalists is identified, they will be asked to visit their authorized local Volkswagen dealer to have their vehicle and documentation validated.

Volkswagen plans to keep the application period open for a minimum of four months. Each of the two winners will be awarded the use of a 2007 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI for six months.

For 30 years, Volkswagen has provided the U.S. market with efficient and durable diesel vehicles. The company has sold 813,476 diesel powered Volkswagens.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.