I bought the print version of the Bentley Manual shortly after I bought my GTI new back in 1987 (of course, a CD-ROM version was not available back then). Over the years, the manual has become pretty ratty, even though I have tried my best to keep it away from greasy hands, tools, etc.
After about 10 years of regular use (I've done all my own maintenance), the spine finally came apart and I had to put the individual pages in a three-ring binder. This works fairly well, but I've had to regularly reinforce the holes on pages as they tear through.
To make a long story short, I recently decided to spring for the CD-ROM version of my manual as a more "permanent" archive, since I don't ever plan on selling the car. I figure that I can print hardcopies of the pages that I'm working with for a particular job, and I can keep them near the work area since it doesn't matter if they get greasy or torn. That's my justification for paying the hefty premium for the CD-ROM.
I ordered mine through Adirondack
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There are those who will advise you of extra-legal ways of obtaining the electronic version, but I don't recommend this route. Not only are there copyright infringement issues, but I think Bentley produces a good product and should be compensated (even though the premium is a bit steep). I can't tell you how well I like the CD-ROM version, as it hasn't yet been delivered. I assume that it contains at least as much useful information as the print version.
I hope this helps you come to a decision.