> the issue is simple, do I
> want a van that will climb the grade from Ventura to Thousand Oaks on
> Highway 101 without having to stay in the slow lane in 2nd gear or
> take the drive from Estes Park to I 70 in Colorado? Yes

Perhaps another van is the answer?  Say, an Aerostar or an Astro?  Toyota or
Honda?

Every older VW has its idiosyncrasies.  Its quirks and familiar quibbles.
It's part of the vehicle's charm.  Part of it is the fact that it doesn't go
as fast as the modern machinery.  Just as the Beetle's heating system tends
to be somewhat underwhelming, so is our Westy's power.  We're driving
15-year old relics so let's not beat them to death with complaints about
their shortcomings.  So they need more power.  But we knew that when we
bought them.  Didn't we?  Yes, I do at times wish it would go faster, but
then I just sit back and smile because I am having fun!  I know I'll be
passing them again on the way down.  And the next downhill... and the
next...

Can anything newer match the Vanagon's charm?  I don't think we would have
bought them if they were as sterile as, well, a Honda?

EIEIO