1982 model year option:
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(from the 1986 model year sales brochure)
A vehicle that uses so little fuel per passenger mile now gets an even thriftier alternative.
A Diesel.A diesel powered Vanagon is a natural, because a truly efficient vehicle deserves the most efficient engine. This option points out how thoroughly the Vanagon was designed and engineered.
For example, the diesel is water cooled -- and the standard 2-liter fuel-injected gasoline engine is air cooled. (So the diesel version has an extra grille up front.) Both engines use a transaxle -- combining transmission and the differential in a single unit -- for smooth power transmission to the rear wheels.
Of course, drag racing starts with either engine aren't the Vanagon's forte. But power won't be a drag around town or on the highway. In fact, the Vanagon Camper's power-to-weight ratio is outstanding for a recreational vehicle.
So is the ride. It's car-like because the suspension isn't truck-like. It's fully-independant, making road holding another strong point.
Driving the Vanagon also is like using a car. All the operating controls are ergonomically placed. There even are nine possible outlets for the heating/ventilation system up front. And four fully-adjustable vents in back, in the roof. If that doesn't surprise you, wait till you learn how the fresh air gets back there. Find out from your Volkswagen dealer's Vanagon specialist.
The Diesel engine features swirl-type combustion chambers where air is properly mixed with injected fuel. Fast warming glow plugs will allow cold starts in less than 12 seconds at 0°F.
The Vanagon's angled Diesel engine -- the standard horizontally-opposed, air-cooled gasoline engine -- isn't the easiest to find, but it's very convenient for basic servicing. Open the rear door and roll up the luggage compartment flooring.
