You can get 400hp from a VW 16V motor with a big turbo and proper
management.  I don't think getting the power is the issue.
I wouldn't want to bolt up a monster to a vgon trans, seeing how the 3-4
slider fails with stock power levels.  If the slider didn't let go the diff
or the gears themselves would be next.
If the trans did hold up the big box would be deadly without a brake/wheel
and suspension upgrade.
Then there's that high center of gravity thing.   I know the vgon handles
well for what it is, but it is still a van.

I think 150hp is probably ideal for most apps.

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Don Hanson
Sent: Tuesday, November 03, 2009 9:04 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: was: Volvo B230FT Engine --> Vanagon? 944 turbo?

How bout a 944 turbo motor in a Vanagon, since we're talking big motors?
Some of my buddies from PCA racing were making 375 rwhp with those motors.
I have one sitting all wrapped up in my shop, right now...Hmmm..
  Don Hanson