While the price may be enticing you need to consider that this is an air
cooled Vanagon.
If you are a California resident keep in mind that 81 was still a 49
state/California different vehicle year for the Vanagon. CA got a different
exhaust, O2 sensor, and different EGR. 
The air cooled has poor heat and it's best chance of running is without AC. 
Engine life can be limited. Engine and exhaust parts getting difficult to
locate. 
Poor fuel economy. 

Good vehicle for short trip moderate weather use and a conversation piece. 
If you really want to be able to use it consider the purchase price a good
down payment and start from there.

Dennis
 

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Stephen Cebula
Sent: Saturday, December 26, 2009 4:37 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Riviera vs Westy

Does anyone have any experience with the Riviera Vanagons?� There's a really
clean '81 in Eugene Oregon for 4K.� I've never been in one but it looks
looks a good package.� 
�
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=895595
�
Steve