> Answer,
"They are trying to drive them at 70 mph."

"And why they geared them to spin so
fast when all the torque is at low speed is completely beyond me."

50 HP is the reason why.  Moving a Westy loaded can be almost 5000 lbs I
think.   That's a HUGE load for a 1.6 NA.

I love my westy diesel.  It's happy going 55 to 60 MPH.  It's best to stay
on the 2 lane highways and country roads.  The interstate is too hurried.
You can not go 70mph as the engine is redlined....and soon to be in the
self-destruct mode.

Now add a 1.9L and Turbo and  presto!  You've got a great combination.
Everything I've read indicates this is a fantastic combination.  Add a lower
ratio tranny (like from an aircooled 4 sp) and you can go freeway speeds
with ease and have good power too.

Joel in Wisconsin