Hi Volks,  (Iike that!)
 Couldn't stay out of this one.

> > Hello - I will update further on this in another message, but I am just on
> > the brink of buying an '85 Westy with 75K original miles, in excellent
> > condition (haven't seen it in person, but was sent about 5 pictures and it
> > looks immaculate), for $6500.  I'm planning on having the owner take it in
> > for a compression test, leak-down test, and maint. inspection.  Anyway...
> >  was just on the phone with my insurance agent to see about rates for the
> > Westy.  He spent about 20 minutes trying to talk me out of buying it!

Well I have a Dodge Caravan (89) and bought a Westy to replace it. (need
the camping facilities)
I have to say in it's defense,  the Caravan does run "great" and does
get "great" gas mileage.  No rust either! But.....obviously I prefer,
the room of the Westy.  And..... after looking at the test crash
pictures of the 'Volvo and the Vanagon-I'd naturally rather have been in
the Vanagon, (Ugh....those pictures are scary!)

> > His main issue (along with lack of power and crappy gas mileage) was safety..........
> > musical) and want to tow a small trailer with equipment behind, he tried
> > to talk me into getting an early '90s Dodge Caravan with a 3.0 L engine. Said
> > the they got great gas mileage, were very safe, and had a lot of power.

Well I don't know about how "safe" they are but mine is a turbo and it
goes!! 75 mph on the Omaha-Neb Interstate was no problem.  (the only
reason I drove that fast though, is because those truckers were either
on my butt or passing me)  So if you change your mind about the Westy
I'm selling the Caravan at $1000 under Book- If not have your insurance
agent call me and I'll sell it to him :o)

> >  And, that I could convert the inside into some kind of camper.

Well I actually considered that because I like my Caravan,
but.......cooking on my knees is not my forte.

Katy
84 Westy (Ozcar)