On 5/19/05 11:54 AM, "roger sisler" <rogersisler2000@YAHOO.COM> wrote:

> Hello, can anyone please tell me if there is a significant difference in the
> preformance here?  VW changed the metal in the radiater in 86 , I believe, as
> did most manufacturers. I once heard that aluminum is superior, but dont
> really know for sure. Will one provide a mesurable edge in over heating
> protection the summer, especially with a/c? Can both be rebuilt , or renewed
> by radiater shops? Thanks
>
VW isnt the only one changing.

These are reason given by various MFR at the time most changed to aluminum

1.  lighter
2.  cheaper
3.  forms easier
4.  more corrosion resistant (with proper coolant)
5.  conducts heat (for cooling) better
6.  can be used in thinner gauges there making the same cooling power in a
smaller package.

Over the years I have found all the above to be true.
In fact the radiator on my subie conversion is a ron davis
<http://rondavisradiators.com/radiators> all aluminum.
Extremely light and cools too well.
jimt