>A reputable source with lots of VW transaxle experience tells me that
>he thinks VW may have changed some gear ratios when they enlarged the
>motor, but this person cannot remember for sure. Do any of you know if
>this is true, and if so, exactly what those changes are?

>More importantly, if such changes exist, would they adversely affect
>swapping an '85 transaxle into an '89 van?

I had the tranny in my 4 sp 91 Carat go bad.     It locked in 4th gear.
I managed to get a 1.9 tranny in good shape for $300 which has been running
fine.
I noticed no difference but I think I read in Bentley's that 2nd may have a
slightly different ratio.      I spend most of my time in 4th anyway so I dont
think it matters.
I cruise at 4400 rpm = ~ 79 mph.

cheers,
Steve Cotsford
Columbia SC