Yup, it can be done:

 http://www.oldvolkshome.com/19to21.htm

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jonathan Lewis" <maestroman@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, November 27, 2001 9:04 AM
Subject: 1.9 to 2.1 engine swap Q's

> Hi all!    Can I easily put a' '86 2.1 from a Synchro into my '85 [1.9]?
> What _must_ be changed? And is there an archive/website/contact that might
> help me with this swap? I am not afraid of wiring if that is needed. TIA,
> JinNJ