I don't understand the comment about "Extraordinarily bad engine" in
the wasserboxer. I've been driving my '89 Carat since new for over 75000
mi without any problems - both in town and on several major trips .
Just normal maintenance, oil changes, filter changes, ect.
The bus still runs great. I expect to drive it many more miles before
any major work needs to be done.

By the way, I picked mine up (after ordering it here in the states) at
the VW factory in Hannover and drove it 4000 mi in Europe in 5 weeks
before having VW ship it to California. Everything (shipping, insurance,
etc.) was included in the purchase price. Great way to go if you have
the opportunity.
VW has it all well organized. The build date on my Bus was the day just
prior to my scheduled pick-up date!

'89 Carat
'85 Audi 5000
'91 BMW 535i