> Rick Koller tells me that the Vanagons don't do as well in the snow because
> the weight is more evenly distributed front to rear and after today's
> driving I believe him.  The '78 seemed more sure-footed in the snow,
> especially on acceleration.  Still, with a bit of care, the Vanagon can be
> driven well and safely in the snow and ice.
> 
> Sean
> 

I want to concur with Sean 100% on this, frankly my '81's performance 
earlier this winter on our first snow depressed me as well.  I drove 
the '78, 70 miles each day last January and was constantly impressed, 
handled incredibly, the '81 is a pig, all over the place hard to get 
traction, the steering is its only plus.  The '78 went through some 
24" snow days and never missed a beat cept for the fact I froze my 
**** off.  I'm unsure how the '85 will do if I ever get it moving 
again, after all I once rolled an '86 real hard on ice.

John
vwbus@netbiz.net