Date:         Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:20:33 +1300
Reply-To:     Andrew Grebneff <goose1047@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Andrew Grebneff <goose1047@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Heart vs. Head
In-Reply-To:  <80378330-6D2C-492E-AD98-804C7193D572@helix.ucsd.edu>
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> The head argues: good heat and air conditioning. An engine that will
> last hundreds of thousands of miles. More power in proportion to mass.
> Same relationship between the driver and the sheet metal in front of
> the vehicle. Radiator and engine are in the same county. Fabulous
> turning radius. No real need for the added interior volume.

I'd say the T3 has a better turning-circle than the Toyota Liteace
you're considering. The Liteace has a very strong front chassis
structure (which Toyota made much of when this generation was released
in about 1983) but I'm not sure about the bodywork above this (haven't
seen a Liteace that's hit a tree or had a head-on). The T3 is notable
for its Volvo-demolishing structural strength. Also, if you enjoy
driving or are concerned about emergency maneuvers, the T3 handles and
th Toyota is no more than competent (understeer understeer)... and can
stand on its front wheels under brakes at an extreme 9if the tires are
really good ones).


--
Regards
Andrew Grebneff
Dunedin
New Zealand
Fossil preparator
Mollusc, Toyota & VW van fan