Ian wrote:
An exception to the non-interference rules are the 1.8L and 2.0L 16v
engines, 1986-1992(?) Scirocco and GTI.   10:1 compression on those, too.

However, I don't think the 16v was ever a serious consideration for Vanagon
engine conversions.  Not torquey enough (at least my Scirocco doesn't seem
to be) in the lower RPM ranges.

-------- reply -----------

I also always assumed the 16v would be a bad choice for the vanagon, no
bottom end torque I thought.
I've since owned a couple 2.0l 16v engines (passat), 10.8 to 1 here in
Canada.  134 hp @ 5800 rpm, 133 lb/ft @ 4400 rpm.  I am surprised at how
good the bottom end is.
You can lug the engine,  no need to wind it out to get moving fast.  It's
nothing like a Honda.   To me, it feels like the torque is lower down than
what the numbers suggest.  I think there are some clearance issues for use
in the vangon however.

Just anecdotal ramblings,
Gary Lee
http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/vanagonrack.htm