The Interview
Q: How long have you owned this car?
A: I bought it in Oct 03
Q: Is there anything unique about the history of this car?
A: It was previously owned by 2 old lady kayakers, who kept it in a garage.
Q:What was your objective with this car?
A: I wanted to create a sleeper Vanagon that would be able to keep up with traffic.
Q: Who helped you build this car?
A: I pretty much did everything, except the wiring harness.
Q: What makes your car special?
A: It still has it's original paint!
Q: What is your favorite part/feature/function?
A: I love the WRX engine, it has really given me respect for Subaru.
Q: Who or what inspired the direction of modifications on this car?
A: A friend of mine, Spencer, he works at EASY Porsche dismantlers in Emeryville Ca, he used to have a 911 powered VW van until it caught on fire.
Q: What don't you like about this car?
A: I really need to find a 5spd transaxle.
Q: What would you change if you could?
A: I'm planning on a brake upgrade, 944 turbo vented rotors and calipers coming soon.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how satisfied are you with the outcome of this project?
A: 11! This thing is incredible! I never imagined what a 250hp Vanagon would feel like. I can't keep from smiling everytime I get behind the wheel.
Q: What would you do to the car if money were no object?
A: Porsche 996 6spd transaxle, and big reds. I would also fab a roll cage.
Q: Who has been your biggest critic of this project?
A: The wife really doesn't understand where all the money goes...
Q: What do your family and friends say about this car?
A: They love it! everybody wants to ride in it.
Q: What is your ideal day with this car?
A: Driving 9 hours to the Bay Area from Portland, and not having to move over for faster moving traffic.
Q: Who gets to drive this car?
A: It's all me baby!
Q: If you had to name your car, what would you name it?
A: It has a name... Vanagon-S "S" is for Subaru.
Q: What was your previous project?
A: I had an 85 double cab transporter, that I added some wheels to. Also added a 911 steering wheel and a tach from a later model.
Q: What is your next project?
A: I would like to do another one using a 91 Vanagon, but this time with an STI 2.5 turbo engine.
Q: What one word best describes your car?
A: Sleeper!
Owner Information:
Name- Eric Didier
VWvortex Screen Name - EricDidier
E-mail-
vwicon@comcast.net
Occupation- engineer
Vehicle Information:
Year- 1987
Make- Volkswagen
Model- Vanagon, wolfsburg edition weekender.
Mileage- 217k !
Original Color- LB7Y Vesuve grey metallic
Current Color- still has original paint!
Engine- 02 Subaru WRX
Engine Modifications- Flex up pipe, samco intercooler hoses, cold air intake, .
Exhaust Modifications- custom 2.5" down pipe, 911 muffler with dual exhaust
Transmission Modifications- Totally stock, except for synthetic oil.
Suspension Modifications- none
Brake Modifications- none yet
Wheels and Tires- Porsche 996 twists, 18 x 8's and 18x10's
Exterior/Body Modifications- rear spoiler, custom air scoop, euro tail light extensions.
Interior Modifications- Corbeau seats using 911 seat tracks, 911 3 spoke steering wheel, white face gauges, 7k rpm tach, vdo boost gauge.
