In a message dated 1/4/01 6:12:21 PM Pacific Standard Time, Rich@PROPSOM.NET writes: << Advantages I see: 1. readily available in a variety of sizes and hp. 2. have integral transaxle which is sized to engine, eliminating some vanagon transmission concerns. 3. would move weight nearly directly over rear wheels. >> Why I don't see these as advantages: 1- They are just as readily available to be bolted onto the Vanagon transmission. 2- The FWD transverse transaxle may be sized to the engine but not to the weight of a Vanagon. 3- You would reduce interior space and increase the brake load to the front wheels which are already overwhelmed. Space behind the engine is not practical for anything other than cargo. Space in the present configuration can be utilized for cargo or people. I have often thought about transplanting a Cadillac Northstar V8 drivetrain under a Vanagon. Kits are already available with removable cradles for Pontiac Fieros. However, once the expense are tallied for such a conversion, even plugging in a Porsche 3.2 Carrera engine starts to sound like a more practical solution. BenT San Francisco |
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