TDI's have more power, smoother, and more frugal. Besides the 1Z/AHU TDI, most need 15 degree mounting which translates to taller rear deck. 15 mounts require non-factory hardware. Required tranny work for Syncros like yours can run about $3500.

AAZ's can be livable with the existing gasser R&P. Cheaper and less complicated. Mounts at 50 degrees with stock diesel Vanagon mounts. Less power and noisier. 

Either group of engines will require a diesel tank unless you are going to mount at 15 degrees or reshaping the tank.

BenT
sent from my electronic leash

On Jun 17, 2011, at 1:25 PM, Mike Miller <mwmiller6@ATT.NET> wrote:

> Van-illas,
> 
> Please lend a hand if you have an informed [or uninformed but amusing]
> opinion about the relative merits of TDIs vs AAZ diesels.
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Mike