engine undertray, needed or not? Advice wanted please

[carl150]

Hi,
Both the engine and gearbox undertray have both been obliterated on the wifes 130 sport tdi. I rang vw and they wanted the best part of £250 for both. Looked on diesel geeks site at the panzer trays and they look pretty good but maybe a bit excessive?

My question is are the undertrays an essential or can the car go without? And have any of you purchased a Panzer tray and what are your thoughts?

Cheers