I'm looking to buy a Westy and am trying to figure out if there are any
really compelling reasons to go for an '86 or newer over getting an older
('84 or '85, which seem to be easier to find here in the northeast)
water-cooled camper that looks to be in good shape.

I've looked through the archives and haven't found a satisfactory response
to the following question:  Aside from the engine, what differences are
there between '85 and '86?  I know that the displacement of the engine was
increased from 1.9 to 2.1 litres, but it seems as though most '84 or '85s
out there have had their engines replaced (largely with the more powerful
powerplant), so that seems to be a rather moot point.  Were there
suspension changes?  Electrical differences?  Brakes, etc?  I would much
appreciate some words of wisdom.