My understanding of why the Vanagon has something
closer to 50/50 weight distribution was VW's response
to "alleged" poor Bay directional stability in a cross
wind.

Also my limited off-road experience with 2WD Vanagons
is that they are remarkably good, except, as another
list-member pointed out, in wet grass.  Between the
slickness of the grass and the soft ground that lets
the front tires dig in, you won't be going anywhere
without assistance (at least on raod tires).

bem

 kurt