Date: Thu, 4 Jan 2001 03:12:13 -0500
Reply-To: Warren Chapman <tallsound@MY-DEJA.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Warren Chapman <tallsound@MY-DEJA.COM>
Subject: Re: Suburu/Golf debate
I can't speak to resale value. I may never sell my converted van. I drove
both engines before deciding on the Subaru. Originally I wanted an all
German van, but even more I wanted more GO power. I drove both engines
(also a 5 cyl Audi) before deciding on the Subaru. I wasn't at all
impressed with the normally aspirated 2.0L Golf motor. I perceived little
or no power increase over my wasserboxer. I was somewhat suprised and very
impressed with the 2.2L Subaru, so chose the latter.
I still find the possibility of the 1.8T VW/Audi (turbo) engine very
intriguing but I have a Westy and I understand this engine will not fit
under the rear hatch without modification.
I'm very happy with the Subaru (although only just finished the conversion
so not many test miles yet) Substantially more low end torque and
acceleration. Can now climb long grades in 4th at 70mph.
I did the job myself, including the wiring, but would not do it again. The
choice comes down to your wallet and the value of your free time to you and
your family. I could afford to hire someone but wanted to do it myself for
the experience. The wiring is a tedious but not difficult job. You can
now hire it done by someone else (David Marshall at Fastforward now does
the job). I would go for it.
Also, in my opinion, the Subaru kit needs more development for Syncros.
Although Kennedy engineering has a new shorter oilpan about ready for
delivery, currently there is no solution in the KEP kit for re-installing
the Syncro skid plate. Others are developing a solution which will probably
be available in a month or so.
Hope some of this info is helpful. You may also want to check out the
registry portion of the site below for feedback from other Subaru
converters with more miles than mine.
http://www.cycoactive.com/urabus/
Another source of info is the SubaruVanagon list:
http://www.egroups.com/group/subaruvanagon
Good Luck
Warren Chapman