I consistently run 49-50mpg hwy.  I'm disappointed in the number of repairs I've had to do to this vehicle, however, and would not consider another new VW.  

Donna, 98 NB, like my vans better

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com]On Behalf
Of Chris S.
Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2004 5:35 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: 1.9 TDI engine conversion

> I have heard of the 1.9L Turbo Diesel engines being used in the vanagon
> but have never found a good write up on it.
> How many of you engine conversion folks have done this conversion compared
> to the Suby 2.2 , 2.5 or the Tiico engine?

I drive a Beetle TDI daily.  The engine puts out 90 hp at 4000 rpm and 150
ft/lb of torque at 1900 rpm - There are mods available that easily
increase the power to over 110 hp.  Although it puts out "only" 90 hp, the
torque comes on very low, which makes it very peppy.  The drawback of
converting to TDI vs. TIICO is that you will have to change or regear the
transmission to get the most out of the diesel's torque curve.

I have no idea what kind of mileage the TDI would yield in a Vanagon, but
in the NB with my spirited driving on the interstate to and from work I
get over 40 MPG - It's a whole different world when you fill up every 550
miles or so with around 13 Gallons of diesel.  I've seen mileage as high
as 47 MPG.  30 certainly sounds feasible in the Vanagon.

Chris S.
'85 Westy
'01 NB TDI