Looking for an MV - Gen 1 Manual or Gen 2 Auto?

[beatnik_glory]

I am a long time VW bus enthusiast. I have owned six previously from a Split Window Single Cab to a Vanagon. My last VW was an '86 Vanagon Westy that I converted to the 2.5l Subaru engine. This turned out to be my favorite - nicest camper package and great power and reliability with the Sube powerplant. I have never owned a T4.

I miss my van and am looking to do some light / overnight camping this year. I have been watching CL the last couple months for VW vans and the asking price for Vanagons and Bay Window busses has gotten ridiculous, especially Westphalia campers. The Eurovans seem to me expensive but not crazy expensive yet.

I have decided on an MV to avoid the premium price of the Pop-tops.

I am looking for some feedback from experienced T4 owners. I am torn between a '93 5-cylinder MV with manual transmission and an '03 with Automatic. They are both similar in price, mileage and condition.

I like the aesthetics of the '03 better and the 6-cyclinder engine has really nice power but auto transmissions make me nervous. The '93 is less aesthetically pleasing but is a manual transmission and the combination with the 5-cyclinder Audi engine seems like it would be pretty reliable. It is ten years older though....

If all things were equal, which would you go with?

Thanks

[volkybus]

Well I like u wanted to get into.a vw bus down here on the enchanted island.(Puerto Rico)& couldn't afford a bay or vanigan n bought a 93 weekender,5 cyl,5 speed these things are a serious moneypit. No wonder they're so cheap . The newer ones r even more complicated ....but Having said that I really have gotten fond of it..when that auto trans goes it can be replaced by a stickk but not cheaply....Good luck..volkybus

[Joshwa]

That’s a loaded question between earlier and later Eurovans. You’ll definately save some money with an MV either way though. Plus you get rear AC with the MV. Likely fractionaly better fuel mileage being lighter. Good luck.


I’d buy the manual, but I’m biased beyond reason.
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93 Weekender TDI conversion (AHU)
93 MV TDI conversion (1Z)
Weekender rear cot
Late model cabin air filter on 93
Euro spec bumper install on 93

[Abscate]

The VR6 is a dreamy powerful, economiCal engine, hands down

The AT last 250-300k miles , cared for.

No brainer if all things can are indeed equal.
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.ssS!