>> RVC: On level ground at 8000' ASL into a 25mph headwind what should one expect for top speed in a fully loaded 89 westie? at sea level a 25mph headwind is pretty limiting, at 8000 feet? Pensioner, contrary to common wisdom, your van's performance will actually INCREASE with altitude, owing to lower wind resistance as a by-product of lower air mass, i.e. the air molecules are less densely "packed together". This is why commercial airliners fly so high -- big fuel savings. The air density at 8000 feet is about 75% what it is at sea level, for a fuel savings (or power increase) of 34%. Hence, a fully loaded Westy that normally has a top speed of 70 MPH at sea level will deliver nearly 94 MPH at such an altitude. Unless it's a diesel, which may only go around 85 or so ... Please ensure that your snack tray is in a locked and upright position! "OK, I'll leave it at that since I've already gone on for far too long about something I don't know a whole lot about ..." Jeffrey Earl 1983 diesel Westfalia "Vanasazi"
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