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Date:         Mon, 28 Aug 2006 20:42:10 -0400
Reply-To:     Geo <geost@VERIZON.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Geo <geost@VERIZON.NET>
Subject:      Which model Westy
Content-type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Hi. I'm new to the Vanagon scene. I'll need a replacement for my aging 93 Saab 9000 at some point so I've been researching the various options. The TDI Golf seemed like a great idea because it has some of the same qualities I appreciate in the Saab: versatility and economy (but not the power). Unfortunately it seems everyone got the same idea at the same time and TDI Golfs are basically unavailable. Then I came across the various Vanagon websites and was really impressed with it's increadible versatility and reasonable economy. Seems it would be a practical daily car with the added fun factor of camping which I've always enjoyed. What I'd like to wind up with in terms of funcionality is something like this: http://www.haywood-sullivan.com/vanagon/index.html. A late model TDI Westy with a vegeoil option. My priorities are: safety, reliability, economy, convenience, versatility, fun, pretty much in that order. I think it's best to start with a junker and do a complete teardown & rebuild because I'll know exactly what I have - what's good and what needs to be replaced or repaired. Also I'll be able to put in the options I want instead of what I'm stuck with. Does that make sense? The tricky part is finding someone competant and reliable to do the job. I'll be moving to Norwalk, CT in a few months. Any recommendations in the NYC or lower CT areas?

Anyway I have some questions I hope aren't too basic for the group.

Where can I find specs for the various models? For example what type of transmissions were available, options, engines, etc.?

Which manual transmission is best for reliability and economy? I refuse to drive an auto tranny esp. in a modestly powered vehicle like this.

Does it make sense to get a vanilla Vanagon and upgrade to a Westy?

How difficult is it to remove components like stove, fridge for daily driving and reinstall for the occassional road trip?

How much of an advantage is the Syncro in daily use?

How much of a fuel penalty is there for the Syncro?

My impression of the original Bus was that it was a tin can in terms of safety. The engine is in the back and there's not much of a crumple zone in front. How much of an improvement is the Vanagon? Were airbags ever available?

Thanks for your help.


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