> We are considering an awning purchase for our 87 Syncro.
> We'd like something as desrete and slim as possible. And 
> does little or no permanent change to the vehicle.

Have you considered our Ezy-Awning? It is designed to do exactly what you said and is just $119. It goes up quickly (less than 10 minutes once you've done it a few times),  packs into a very small bag that can be stored anywhere when not in use, and requires no drilling or modification to your Vanagon. It's one of the most popular items we sell.

http://www.busdepot.com/details/awning/

Ron Salmon
The Bus Depot, Inc.
www.busdepot.com