Most of the Vanagons inefficiencies come from the vehicle itself.
Aerodynamics, frontal area, under chassis turbulence etc. The Subaru engines
offer some efficiency improvements but even with gearing changes 5-10% would
be really lucky. The automatics really suffer do to the lack of a lock up
torque converter.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
John Rodgers
Sent: Friday, February 18, 2011 6:51 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Subiegon/Vanaru Gas Mileage

  In spite of rising gas prices, at my age, I have "Zero" plans to give
up my Vanagon(s) in favor of more modern and supposedly fuel efficient
vehicles.  But - I'm willing to do what I can otherwise to improve fuel
economy, such as an engine swap to a more modern engine. The one that
intrigues me most is the Suburu motor.

My Question: would any of  you Vanagoneers out there with Subie engines
supplying horses for your wagon please inform me about any gas mileage
improvements you have experienced?  What engine and what mileage
increases did you see when you made the change?

Much appreciated.

Thanks,

John

--
John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com