[Vwdiesel] Wasserboxer Westy

[Andrew .Libby]

WRT automatic vs. manual, I also personally prefer manual transmissions.
The direct transfer of power and added fuel economy along with added
control over the vehicle are big upsides.  The biggest upside to the
automatic is that my wife will drive it.  :-)  Automatics were never even
on my radar prior to the day my wife said she didn't want to drive manuals
anymore.  At this point I'm actually working towards having only automatics
as I'd rather have one vehicle that we will both drive than maintain two
just for the 'luxury' of driving a manual.  Then again, if I can get down
to just two vehicles I will feel a great sense of accomplishment.  They
started using the updated slider at some time in '89.  As far as I know
there isn't an external way to tell if the updated piece has been installed.

I don't have much input on the various Subaru conversions.  I have only
driven a 2.2 and while it did better than the 2.1 WBX, it wasn't exactly a
rocket.  My intercooled 1.6TD running 18 psi of boost definitely performed
better.  Any of my 1.9s do considerably better yet.  WRT the Subaru diesel
conversion, I don't quite see the point.  The engine itself costs $6,000.
 Smallcar charges an additional $13,000 for the conversion.  That $13,000
DOESN'T include regearing the trans or a slew of other items they call
'optional'.  A VW TDI can be installed with a regeared transmission for
half that total cost and tuned for similar power and fuel economy or enough
torque to threaten gear box destruction.  The only thing you get for the
extra $10,000 is bragging rights.

As far as other items, all of it is old and all of it can be replaced.
 Inspecting each vehicle for the condition of all of the various components
is important.  There aren't any other specific items that are particularly
problematic.  My best recommendation would be to try to find the nicest one
you can afford or if you are very handy and lucky, buy one that has a blown
engine or other issue.  I've bought two with blown engines and one with a
ruined clutch.