Date:         Wed, 25 Nov 1998 10:46:50 -0800
Reply-To:     Barbara Sutton/Cris Torlasco <bsutton@GLADSTONE.UOREGON.EDU>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Barbara Sutton/Cris Torlasco <bsutton@GLADSTONE.UOREGON.EDU>
Organization: University of Oregon
Subject:      South Africa report
Comments: To: vanagon@VANAGON.COM
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

I got back from South Africa two weeks ago. Didn't have a chance to
visit the Vanagon factory, but gathered some information. First of all,
Vanagons-called Microbuses or Caravelles-are alive and well there; you
see them everywhere. Quite a pleasant surprise to see dozens of
Vanagons as soon as I stepped out of the Johannesburg Int. airport.
They are commonly used as hotel shuttles and airport transportation,
but also as upscale family vehicles.
Our 40-mile transfer to the second's night hotel was done-conviniently
enough-in a 2.6i Microbus, which gave me the chance to take some
pictures of interesting details inside and outside, as well as in the
engine compartment. (Unfortunately, the pictures are being developed
overseas, so it will be a while before I can have them posted. I do have
some fresh brochures scanned; go to the WetWesties' website-
http://members.tripod.com/~torlasco/WetWesties.html -and scroll down to
SOUTH AFRICAN CARAVELLE AND MICROBUS). All I can say is that there were
7 adults in the
vehicle, plus all our luggage in a trailer, and we were FLYING through
this mountain freeway; the 5 cylinder/5 speed does make a difference!
1-INTERIOR
Dashboard area is same as we know it, except of course for the steering
wheel on the right side and a very cool VW glass holder. The middle
bench has fold down/retractable extension next to the sliding door
(which is on the left side) which can be either a seat or a beverage,
etc. tray. Very functional. A/C system runs all the way to the back
through ceiling ducts. Grundig stereo, rear hatch aluminum bars (as in
deluxe splitties), and a very useful light at the low section of the
sliding door jamb that helps you watch your step as you get in or out.
2-EXTERIOR
Colors are similar to '89-91 US models. Didn't see any silver,
though. Slight body differences which most of you already know:
         Lower radiator grille extends all the way to turning lights
         Round lights in three of the four models offered (More on
models later)
         Black plastic trim under windshield (good looking)
         Rear side air grilles are different; there is an addition of
a        smaller grille at the back, facing rear.
         Wheels are 15" standard, and the three aluminum versions
are              really good looking.
         Splash guards are also standard equipment at the four wheel
wells.
         ALL rear lateral windows are sliding.
         I saw many of the SA Vanagons with a metal assembly that
protects the front bumper. Took pictures of them, too.

I briefly stopped at a Durban dealership and collected more information
and brochures. The parts guy made me some copies of engine, transmission
and mounts diagrams, both for the 1.8 (4 cyl.) and 2.5 (5 cyl.). These
will also be linked from the WW's website in the near future.
I bought a couple of adhesive back door emblems; one reads "Microbus"
and the other one "Caravelle", same letter style and size as our
"Vanagon" emblems.
According to the sales person, Vanagons (called Kombis or buses there)
are doing very well in South Africa, and there are no plans to stop
production.
The four versions available are:
1)1.8 MICROBUS. Most basic: 4 in-line cylinders, 1781 cc, 4 sp. manual,
front disc brakes, steel or optional alum. 15" wheels, 85-liter fuel
tank, rear-heated window, reclinig seats, tinted glass windshield, rear
wiper washer, round twin halogen headlights, alarm, central locking,
Grundig 5201 radio/tape w/detachable face (optional), mudflaps, 12-month
unlimited distance guaranty, 3 year anti-corrosion, 15,000 km service
intervals. Price: R 90,000 (About U$S 15,000)
2)2.3i MICROBUS. Same as above, except: 5-cylinder, 2309 cc engine; 15"
alum. only wheels, digital clock, tachometer, tinted glass all around,
power steering, ceiling-mounted A/C (optional). Price: R 111,650 (About
U$S 18,600)
3)2.6i MICROBUS. Same as above, except: 2553 cc engine, 5-speed manual,
electrically operated/heated side rear view mirrors, height-adjustable
seat belts. Price: R 144,260 (About U$S 24,000)
4)2.6i CARAVELLE. Same as above, except: electrically operated front
windows, velour cloth trim and bolsters, foldable arm rests throughout,
rectangular headlights, no mudflaps (?!). Price: R 165,270 (About U$S
27,545)
All vehicles compatible with unleaded fuel. Camper version not
available; Diesel idem.
VW just launched a new interior, similar to our Weekend, with a side
fold-down table, cupholders, and an under-jump-seat 12V fridge. (Will
post photos of all this, too) There are also some handy map/magazine
containers at the jumpseat's sides.
I have a contact at the Durban dealership, just in case it becomes
useful to anyone.
Due to time constrains, I was not able to gather all the info people
asked me for. I'll do my best to answer further questions.
Cris.
Eugene, OR.
'91 Westie "Fafner"
'65 Standard
The WetWesties' website:
http://members.tripod.com/~torlasco/WetWesties.html