Hello Jennifer, I am in Portage, about 35 miles north of Madison.
I probably wouldn't be much help to you in determining the value of the
Westy, but wanted to let you know I was in the neighborhood.
I bought my 84 in Madison in April '99 for $875. Since then I have been
involved in acquiring four more for friends. We have been able to get an 86
syncro for $1800, a 86 GL for $1200, an 87 Syncro for $2000, and another 86
GL for $800. We have just been buying them and dealing with the numerous
problems as they come along. None of these are Westys.
I am curious about what your mechanic had to say about this vehicle. I am in
agreement with the guy who bought a non-running westy and had it built new so
he knew what he had. I am going to end up doing that with mine.
I would have taken it (the 80 Westy) in to Zimbrick (VW Dealer) for their
inspection service, as they are trained to spot every little thing they can
make money from.
Are you the friend of Bill Zor who was looking for a Vanagon last year?

Tim Root
Portage, WI
84 Vanagon
90 Fox Wagon
97 Jetta