on the speedo - 1980 has an 85 max mph speedo,
and you're right about the lack of a trip odo in 1980- but putting in a
later insturment cluster ......is not 'too hard' ......
The wiring at the main plug is different, and a few wire positioins have to
be swapped - so it's possible to switch over everyting, including making the
lower grill opening look pretty stock/original.
but it still just does not look like a 1980 to me.

----- Original Message -----
From: "joel walker" <uncajoel@BELLSOUTH.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, July 18, 2008 3:04 PM
Subject: Re: Ebay vin# switcharoo?

>> Danger, danger, what year is it really? Probably not the one that
>> the
>> photo of the dash vin# and ad text would indicate.
>> http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Volkswagen-Bus-Vanagon-Westfalia-VW-Vanagon-Westfalia-Camper-Vanagon-pop-top-camper_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3286Q2em14Q2el1318QQhashZitem120284412659QQitemZ120284412659
>
>
> hmmm. interesting ... notice also that it has no outlets on the driver
> side ... no connection boxes for power/etc.
>
> square headlights could have been transplanted, but a watercooled
> lower grill???
> also i don't recall my 80 L model having a trip odometer ... didn't
> think they came out til like 1982.
>
> i kinda think maybe the 1987 bus was 'updated' with the 1980 dash and
> 1980 camper top and interior.
>
> unca joel