What is the best year (2002 - 2005) for the VW beetle in terms of reliability and low repair costs?

1938-1974. Not a fan of any of the New Beetles. They have A LOT of electrical problems!!!!!!

Take the naysayers with a grain of salt, Cyoung. As far as the modern Beetles go, 2005 saw the introduction of some improvements in the power train and suspension. Most of the bugs found in the 98 and 99s were engineered out of the equation as well. I've had a 98, 05, 07, and a 2012. The 12 was by far the most stable and reliable of the group. The 07 was nearly as good...the 2.5L 5 cylinder, while only capable of 30mpg, was very smooth and decently powerful. The 2.0T is a bit more powerful and a joy to accelerate...and every bit as reliable as it no longer uses a timing belt...has an internally lubricated chain. The new 1.8T expands the flexibility of the platform with potent power AND efficiency. It's too early to expound on its reliability, but, being based on the existing 2.0T, it should be rock-solid. If you're set on the 2002-2005 generation...go for the 05.