I had an old RX-7 ('85) and I got better gas mileage than I get with the
Vanagon. I'd average 19-25mpg - depending on how much foot I used.  However, I
do agree with you that a rotary would not be a great choice for a Van motor
because the rotary has so little torque at low RPM - this was even noticeable
in the RX-7 which is not a heavy vehicle by any means.

On the other hand, it would be cool to see one. I know that Kennedy Engineering
makes an rotary to VW trans adapter.

Perhaps if you used a late model RX-7 twin turbo rotary motor, you might have
an interesting combo - but you would probably need to beef up the transmission.

Todd

Andrew Grebneff wrote:

> >I am looking for pictures or information
> >on installing a rotary, specifically in
> >a syncro Van.  The main concern at this
> >point, before it commences is one of ground
> >clearance and/or cover height.
>
> A Wankel rotary in a VW van would be an evil pig.
>
> This is because the rotary develops almost all of its torque at
> near-redline RPM. For a heavy van what you need is an engine with a good
> spread of torque, including at low RPM. A rotary would work... but you'd
> have to rev it to get off the line, which is annoying; also shortens clutch
> life and economy. Speaking of economy, you'd better have a supertanker that
> you can tow around to keep your Vanavannah (most Mazda rotaries are called
> Savannah in Japan; some are Cosmo, giving Vanasmo) fed. And a bank account
> to suit.
>
> Did you know that VW owns the patents to the Wankel engine??
>
> Andrew Grebneff
> 165 Evans St, Dunedin, New Zealand
> <andrew.grebneff@stonebow.otago.ac.nz>
> ph   64 (3) 473-8863
> fax 64 (3) 479-7527
> 84 VW Caravelle GL (to be fitted with SVX engine & Porsche G50 trans) RWD
> 87 Corolla 1.8 DX CE80 diesel sedan FWD
> 89 Corolla 1.8 DX CE96 diesel van/wagon FWD
> 89 Corona 2.0 D Select CT170 diesel sedan FWD
> 92 Toyota Estima Lucida (=Previa) 2.2 turbodiesel RWD