A popular replacement engine (in CA at least because the KEP kit meets
our smog specs) is the late 80's - early 90's Subaru 2.2L.  Note that
this engine's production run was just about the same time as the VW 2.1L
WBX. With negligable extra displacement it produces 50% more horsepower
out of the same grade of gas with at least equal reliability.

I don't buy a Subaru (actually I do have two) because it isn't a Vanagon
and they don't make anything close.  I love most everything about the
Vanagon except the under powered engine.  The Subie engine and most of
the drive train is great.  I have much less respect for the rest of
their running gear, in particular their CV joints and staked wheel nuts.
 So I intend to combine the best of both.

Ed

John Lunetta wrote:

>Don't forget that VW stopped production of the Vanagon water boxer with the 91 model year. Modern Jap engines are naturally better made. So are newer VW engines. Well it's just a matter of preferance.What can I say, Why don't you guys just buy a subaru. Good Luck.  John 90 Vanagon GL
>