
The differences between Bora and Bora Legend are: 1. Different tire specifications: Bora's tire specification is 195/65r15; Bora Legend's tire specification is 205/55r16. 2. Different body dimensions: Bora's body length, width, and height are 4663mm, 1815mm, and 1462mm respectively; Bora Legend's body length, width, and height are 4562mm, 1793mm, and 1468mm respectively. 3. Different engine models: Bora's engine model is EA211-DMB; Bora Legend's engine model is EA211-DLF. 4. Different manufacturing platforms: Bora is built on the MQB platform; Bora Legend is built on the PQ34 platform.

I've been driving for several years and often compared Volkswagen's Bora series. The Bora Classic is actually a product that continues the old platform, equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering only about 110 horsepower, which feels underpowered, especially during acceleration. The new Bora, on the other hand, adopts the MQB platform with a 1.4T engine boosting power to 150 horsepower, offering a smoother driving experience. In terms of features, the Classic version is heavily simplified, lacking automatic air conditioning, a large central touchscreen, and a rearview camera, with a strong plastic feel inside. The new model comes with CarPlay connectivity and more airbags, enhancing safety. The main selling point is the price—the Bora Classic is about 20,000 to 30,000 RMB cheaper, making it suitable for those on a tight budget as a short-term option. However, for long-term use, it's recommended to spend a bit more on the new Bora for a more worry-free and effortless experience.

I test drove the Bora Legend and the new Bora twice myself, and the experience was quite different. The Legend version has a hard plastic interior, which causes back pain after sitting for a long time, and the tire and wind noise at high speeds are overwhelming—the sound insulation is terrible. The new Bora has much softer seats, stable road feedback, and a more comfortable drive. For daily use, the Legend version lacks basic features like keyless entry, and running the AC in summer is a hassle. The new model comes with key controls and smartphone connectivity, making navigation and music playback a breeze—much more convenient. In terms of fuel consumption, the Legend claims to be fuel-efficient, but it’s actually similar to the new model, with less than half a liter difference per 100 km. After driving more, the Legend feels like the worse deal. Overall, the Legend version is cheaper and tempting, but you’ll regret it after using it—it’s better to grit your teeth and go for the new model for better value.

When comparing the two Bora models briefly: the Bora Legend is positioned as a budget version, with prices dropping by 30,000 to 40,000, but it features outdated technology, an old platform, and basic safety configurations, lacking electronic stability and additional airbags. The new Bora, after upgrading its platform, offers a more stable drive and significantly higher safety ratings. In terms of appearance, the Legend's design is rigid, while the new model is much more stylish and holds its value better. It is recommended to opt directly for the new Bora if the budget allows, avoiding the risk of major issues by saving small amounts.

From an economic perspective, a Bora or Bora Legend: The Bora Legend has a lower starting price, making it easier to purchase, but its operating costs are higher, such as shorter maintenance intervals and readily available parts that need frequent replacement. The new Bora, although slightly more expensive, is equipped with an efficient powertrain, offering surprisingly low fuel consumption and long-term savings on fuel costs. Additionally, the Legend depreciates quickly, losing half its value in five years, while the new model retains its value better with less depreciation. Calculating overall costs like fuel and insurance, the initial savings with the Legend might eventually lead to higher losses. In terms of maintenance, Legend parts are cheaper but come with more issues, such as frequent fan failures; the new model has a lower failure rate and longer warranty, making it more suitable for stable use. Choosing the Legend saves money in the short term, while the new version saves money in the long run.

As a family car owner, I found the Bora Legend's practicality compromised: cramped space makes fitting a child seat tight, and it lacks key safety features like an enhanced ABS system, feeling unstable during high-speed turns. The new Bora offers a more spacious rear seat that accommodates child seats without hassle, plus more standard airbags for added stability. Comfort-wise, the Legend's poor sound insulation disrupts children's sleep, whereas the newer model is quieter and more reliably serene. Both trunks have similar luggage capacity, but the Legend's rough materials wear out faster. For families, skipping the budget-friendly Legend and investing in the newer model for better child protection is worthwhile, making daily commutes much more worry-free.


