>So here's the question : is a vanagon a suitable daily driver?

Sure thing IF you are willing to commit to the maintenance needs of an
older vehicle!  If you are not able or willing to deal with the problems
that will crop up and perform regular preventive maintenace, AND if you
don't have the sense of Karma that attaches you to your Vanagon, then
forget it as a daily driver.

Sorry to hear about the tow truck mishap.  The towing company should put
things right if they f****d up.  Let us know how things work out.

Best wishes,

Tony

Anthony L. Mourkas
Hampden, Maine, USA
1984 Vanagon Westfalia
1987 Vanagon GL Syncro
1991 Jetta Eco Diesel