Rust free?  I hope you live near me (Arizona) because you won't find many totally rust free anywhere else.  As for the best year, it doesn't fall into the range you specified.  You said '58 thru '76.  In case you didn't notice, this is the VANAGON list.  We are here because we like Vanagons, and that means '80 thru '91.  Vanagons have a lot more room inside than any of the earlier Westys.  As a camper, there is just no comparison.  Myself, I like the aircooled version of the Vanagon, so I think '80 thru '82 is best, but others here much prefer the later water cooled versions.

Bill
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jason Willenbrock 
  i am looking into buying a classic westy.  i am researching anything from '58 thru '76.  i want to get a list collection of what you all think are the best years and why.  i am making this a summer project and want something soon.  it will be a weekend camper and fun bus that is absolutley rust free.  most mechanics i can do, but rust is my main thing.  so what are the best years and why?