1984 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia review from North America
"Thank god I kept my Toyota truck. If you buy a VW, get a Toyota or Honda as a 2nd vehicle"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Chronic head gasket failures (twice in the 20k miles owned).
Electrical bugaboos (gauges don't work properly).
Engine sometimes overheats on mild uphills (probably due to lack of power).
Needed new transmission on purchase.
Stalls quite frequently if not started at least 2-4 times per day.
A/C does not work.
General comments?
This vehicle is very slow to the point it's almost a hazard. My 1994 Toyota Truck 4x4 xtracab, even with a 4-cyl, accelerates like a turbo MR2 compared to the van.
The van is roomy and very comfortable and is great for camping trips with the pop-top. That's the only plus about the van unfortunately.
Due to its unreliability, the vehicle has been relegated to recreational status until a more permanent vehicle can be obtained. Might get a Toyota Sienna or Highlander to replace it.
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| 1983 - Vanagon GL 1.9 gasoline It is clear that Annie has been a large part of all my landmark moments |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1984 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 4-cylinder gas Manual |
| Performance marks | 2 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 1 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 100000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 120000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota 4x4 |
| Date of Entry | 10th July, 2001 |