plus..
you have a vehicle designed with aerodynamics in mind..
such as flush windows.

flush windows start in cars around the late 80's..
VW didn't have that feature ( and aero outside view mirrors ) until the
92/93 Eurvoan.

and you probably have some form of ABS brakes..
all stuff you don't get in a Vanagon, 2WD or Syncro ...for 5 times the
price.

I 'can understand' ..
Chevy/GM kinda makes me sick sometimes re quality ..
but they do deliver a lot of content and value for the price, even new.

I've seen vans like this one of Don's in 2WD, running decently, for 800
bucks.
what's not to like ! ?

On 6/1/2014 2:38 AM, Don Hanson wrote:
>    My 'cheaper' comment is about the actual real cost difference, not
> perceived the quality.
>
>   I have not seen many AWD syncro Westies for under $20k recently, and many
> of them are selling for double and triple that...Regular 2wds are also way
> more than double or triple what these GM vans seem to be selling for, so
> far. (they seem to be worth lots more in Europe)
>
>    You are correct that the GM vans cost less...dunno about cheaper,
> quality-wise...I'd certainly match the Vortec v-6 motor against any wbx
> motor for durability and power..the Safari I got (97)  still has the
> syncro-style full time viscous coupling drive line, but the later ones are
> computer controlled, said to be a big improvement...and of course the parts
> are cheap and plentiful for these 'less elete' GM vans...I should have said
> it that way..."Blue Collar campervans" maybe.
>
>
> On Sat, May 31, 2014 at 8:17 PM, James <jk_eaton@hotmail.com> wrote:
> While I prefer the Westfalia version, "Cheap VW imitations" is unfair when
> it comes to Astro Condo camper van conversions - had a chance to go through
> several of these on our travels last summer, and the Quebec company doing
> the conversions has achieved a very Teutonic level of planning, quality,
> and execution in their camper conversions.  The van underneath is cheaper -
> certainly it rides rougher - but then it tows 5000 pounds!
>
> James
>