On May 25, 2012, at 1:07 PM, Justin M. Mayrand wrote:

For that cash, I'd get a Sportsmobile. For a small one the Honda Element conversion is nice, though not in the same league as a Westy.

I know 3 volks who have had that same sentiment (getting a Sportsmobile) just before they reach retirement. They all now own Vanagon
Westfalia's, 2 Syncro, 1 2WD. They have all changed their minds after checking what is offered for the interior, and especially what the
fuel mileage is. Reports of 10mpg up to 15mpg on blogs by current owners is not very encouraging.

The 2WD owner has been hearing glowing reports of the effect of a Syncro transaxle, or Peloquin/LSD in the 2WD transaxle, and changing
their mind about the Sportsmobile.

Dropping a minimum of $80K, vs dropping maybe $30-40K into their current van to upgrade it, is appealing, especially considering the
numerous options for power plant and interior improvement options.

Bob