Bob -

You are going to get a lot of variation here, but IMO, the water-cooled
Westfalia'a are more versatile.  My first was an 83.5.  I had it for about
10 years, spent a lot of pleasant time in it, and only sold it to move up to
an '87 with AC and power steering.

They are more complicated than the air-cooled, and have some quirks that can
drive you nuts, but if you are in it for the long-term, I think you will
find yourself using it more.

The heat system is much better, unless you are willing to do a fair bit of
work to the air-cooled system, and unless you are planning to only use it in
the summers, that's a consideration.  If the '84 really has a separate
propane heater, that can be a real plus for cool weather camping.

Other than that, as far as the two you are comparing, I can't say.  In
either case I would spend the money to have a competant mechanic go through
the beast.  It will allow you to budget any needed repairs, and negotiate
the price based on what it will cost you to make it roadworthy.

Keep in mind, though, once you have owned a Westfalia, it's hard to be
without one!

Good luck!

Mike Finkbiner
'87 Westy
Moscow, Idaho

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Date:    Wed, 5 Sep 2001 07:11:58 -0700
From:    Bob Thompson <bobthom@PREMIER1.NET>
Subject: advice needed on a purchase

Hi, There!

I'm Bob Thompson, in Marysville, WA.  I'm new to this list, and I'm
considering buying a Westy, for the first time. I've owned an old VW bus
more years ago than I care to admit, but nothing recently.  I need some
advice on making a decision on a purchase.

<SNIP>

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