>Why don't they just start building vanagons again?  A few mods to the
>engine and a/c and you'd have a world beater.  I'd buy one!

Few people want a world beater, they want what everyone else has. Bigger,
heavier, and space age looking. These might not be good for much, but the
world wants them. The best vehicles in the world sell very few compared to
the junky explorers, and other 'cars on a truck' that are offered by
dealers.

Plus, air bags, safety harnesses, impact testing, and a ton of other
politically driven money makers for the insurance industry. I would have
settled for importing one from SA, but I guess that will never happen now.

OTOH, don't misconstrue, I would buy a new Vanagon  in a heartbeat. Best
all around vehicle I have ever seen.

It is a shame.....

John