hi.  as i have mentioned we are currently looking for a used vanagon
westfalia.  i have contacted numerous people and we're getting closer to the
price/vanagon connection, but not quite yet.

i have found an '87 about 2 driving days distant that is in excellent shape
(it's a gl westy), except for a "mass air flow computer" (?) problem and
some rust around the stove/fridge vent (bubbling paint).  the engine has
148K, and i would be the 3d owner.  it has always had the correct coolant,
and has the original heads with no leaks.  the seller wants $6K.  what would
you ask for a discount on the above problems?

i've also found an '85, unknown mileage, for $5300, about 1 driving day from
where we are (santa cruz, ca).  it's near medford, oregon.  has sat for a
while waiting for its owners to return from their homeland (in africa), and
now that they can't get visas to return they need to sell it through a
friend.  no rust to speak of, everything clean and in good shape.  can
anyone recommend a mechanic in that area i could take the car to for an
inspection?  i am thinking of driving up there to see it with my wife and
kid, so they can approve as well.  i am pretty certain i can get the price
down below $5K.

which of these two, and i know it's really an impossible question, seems
like the better deal?  the distances don't phase me (faze?), i just don't
want to waste time on problems (like that rust around the vent) that will
only get worse and worse.

how much improvement was made between the '85 model year and the '87?  does
it sound like the extra grand would be well spent?

lastly, what do poptop owners do in the rain?  if the poptop is open, and it
starts to pour, how dry does it stay inside?  do they make ponchos for
poptops?

thanks in advance...
bill