Mark Thoma wrote:

> .  Once I got out on the
> Pennsylvania turnpike (tollroad) the Rabbit was able to pull the Vanagon at
> a reasonable speed most of the time.  I figure their combined weight to be
> in the neighborhood of about 5,800 pounds.

 I used to pull my beetle oval track car about 300 miles a week with my '81
jetta 1.7. Realy did a fine job and flat towed nicely at about 85 mph.  Figured
that I totaled about 4000 miles in that configuration.  Finally retired the
Jetta with 185000 on it due mostly to rust, not mechanical difficulties. Even
with that, I have to admit that I'm impressed with your endeavor! Ocassionally
makes you wish you had a Surburban but the thought passes quickly.
Mark