Date: Sat, 7 Apr 2007 22:22:16 -0400
Reply-To: Jeff Lincoln <magikvw@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Jeff Lincoln <magikvw@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: What features from the Vanagon would be necessary in a new
vehicle for you to consider it an adequate or improved
replacement? was: "Brand new" bus now Vanagon
In-Reply-To: <6da579340704071748q63ebb540h549a57a6630c94c5@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
John,
I think you've nailed it. Basically keep it much the same yet update for
safety standards and shortcomings. Better engine, keep the ground clearance,
bigger tires, better wiring, better plastic, more durable cooling system,
pop top options, folding bed, and keep the engine in the back. Oh and my one
other request a return of round headlights - better yet have the SA grille
as standard.
On 4/7/07, John Bange <jbange@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > If you were going to design a vehicle from the ground up to replace the
> > Vanagon, keeping in mind gov't requirements and all that, what features
> > would it have and what would it look like- what are the 'essential'
> > Vanagon
> > elements? What among those elements should be improved or upgraded (how
> > and
> > why)?
> >
> > Here's what I'd require to replace my beloved money-sucker Vanagon:
>
> -Engine in the rear, or maybe up front between the seats, like an 80's
> Toyota Van. Just not taking up space in a big, useless nose.
> -Decent ground clearance
> -High, comfortable seats that fit me at 6'2"
> -Rear bench folds into a bed
> -Easy to service (I guess that eliminates an engine up front like the
> Toyota!)
> -Tough as nails, and reliable if maintained properly
> -Availability of a Westy-type pop-top
> -Big enough so I don't bang my head and elbows all the time
> -Not so huge it only gets 11MPG, like my Chevy work van
>
> What would improve the Vanagon? Air bags, ABS, and all that safety crap I
> suppose. Really the only serious weakness I see in the Vanagon is the
> engine. If VW had made a more Subaru-like wasserboxer, it would be
> perfect.
> But really, the reason I like the Vanagon so much is that its shortcomings
> are so very minor compared to its utility. Lots of little annoyances like
> marginally adequate wiring, dim DOT headlights, stupidly small 14" wheels,
> stiffener-losing plastic or rusting metal coolant pipes, wimpy front
> brakes,
> even wimpier factory engine; but these are all obstacles that can be
> overcome (by throwing lots of money at them, usually). The satisfaction of
> watching giant RV's trying to park in a campground, seeing tent campers
> rubbing their aching backs after sleeping on the ground all night, making
> lumber yard guys' eyes pop out when you slide five sheets of plywood in
> the
> back--- it makes it all worthwhile.
>
> Did I mention the engine is in the back, where it belongs? That's very
> important.
>
> --
> John Bange
> '90 Vanagon - "Geldsauger"
>
--
Thanks,
Jeff
90' Carat (It's Blue, It's Beautiful, It's naked inside - IT'S ALIVE!)
86' (We call this one Parts)
85' GL (Sidelined and feeling neglected)
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