Hans: I have owned a '61 and a '67 split-window, a '76, an '81 and an '87. I thought the '76 was the least comfortable to drive, and the Vanagons the most comfortable. I love my '81 which I have had since new, and I love the air-cooled engine, but it is certainly noiser than the '87. Of course, this is comparing a big, empty 7-passenger with a Westy, but it is also rubber mats vs carpet, etc. Also the '87 has much more (and smoother) power in most situations than the '81. But it is certainly more complicated--with water, power steering, etc. I definitely recommend Vanagons over the bay windows. Richard A. Jones Boulder, Colorado '81 Vanagon Mr Bus '87 Syncro Westy El Jefe |
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