2003 vw new beetleconvertible engine turns over but why will it not start

SOURCE: vw polo automatic 1997 wont start

Coil unit will be knackered £60 for a new one will fix it

SOURCE: my 2003 vw beetle turbo s starts then stops

Check the battery.
When battery is dies these problems will come..

SOURCE: passat vw 1998 wont start.

try to reciever. it reads the chip in ur key. it could be faulty

SOURCE: 2003 VW Golf Overheats

the cylinder head has warped. replacement is the solution.

SOURCE: 1600cc vw engine, ran sluggish, backfired and wont

Sounds like you are describing two different problems?... First, can you put a wrench on the crank bolt and turn the engine (2 complete turns...with trans out of gear of course)? ...if not this indicates an internal failure in the engine... if so check to see if the distributor has moved... that would explain the sluggishness and the backfire...The lost fasteners you mention should not affect driveability... When you say it will not turn over I am assuming you mean the starter won't engage... if you can hear the starter engaging (clicking), but the motor still won't turn (with a good charge on the battery and good wire connections), that is again a sign of serious engine damage... If no sounds come from the starter (and you have checked wiring and have good voltage) pull out the starter and test on the ground with jumper cables... Hope this helps... post more details if none of these steps get you going again...;-)