Date:         Thu, 12 Aug 1999 18:55:50 -0400
Reply-To:     David M <dmc@CYBURBAN.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         David M <dmc@CYBURBAN.COM>
Organization: .
Subject:      Trip report and Vanagon impressions
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I just got back from my longest trip yet in my '87 Wolfsburg, which I
have owned for 10 months now.
Only 600 uneventful miles but enough to draw a few firm conclusions
about my vehicle.

First, I love the vehicle, its a marvel of design and space efficiency,
ideal for a family of four with lots of luggage.
I love driving the van and I got a few positive comments from people I
parked next to (usually "wow there's a lot of room in there").

Chief drawbacks on my van are: the atrocious KYB shocks (brand new)
which transfer every minor bump. The ludicrously inefficient headlights
(I first thought they weren't on and I got out to check the bulbs).
The auto gearshift is a tad too far away from the drivers seat (and I
have a longer than average reach).
The method of unlocking the rear hatch is a constant pain, I wish it was
a simple lock/unlock key switch with no power.
I also wish the brakes were a tad more powerful, with four people and
lots of luggage I found panic stops needed a very firm foot.