The speeds you are describing with your '84 Westy is almost identical to my experience with my '84 Westy, also w/ 1.9, 4 sp. I have no trouble cruising at 75 MPH, about 4100 rpm. I recently crossed South Dakota with the bus cruising at 75-80 mph, using my Audiovox cruise control. Of course I had to use the seat of my pants to help it up hills but then it is a vanagon! Sometimes I turn the a/c off going up hills too. Going west into Cody Wyoming, I passed a much later Syncro that was obviously flat out also. Perhaps the extra drive train offset the extra HP they are supposed to have. Without a strong headwind, I can see 85 mph indicated quite easily. Dont get excited yet! I think your van is about normal. Cheers, Steve |
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