I love our 245's. They've served us very well and continue to. But face it, the parts supply is going to gradually get weaker. Sooner or later, it's gonna get tough to keep these babies going. Further, every so often, we find new components that quit on us, like stuff that dies after 15 years. What stops working after 20-25 years?? - we'll find out soon! (Sorry for the cyniciszm)

So what to drive next?? Toyotas, Subarus, Hondas, even Detroit Iron RWD pickups have all been suggested. None fill the bill as none is a brick. Though maybe Subarus comes close, being kinda unusual with their longitudinal 4WD and boxer engines.

Maybe true bricks can be built and sold in Mexico. The Beetle had a long life there, which I believe was designed in the '30's. Give the Mexico Brick a good modern A/C and a bigger radiator, all metal. It would take a beating and keep on ticking. I can just see them, with bus seats bolted to the roof, and subwoofers screwed to the spare tire well. Oh yeah, and make them US-regulations compliant, so we can bring them here.
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[aka Sophie's Maintainer] Sven: '89 245, IPD sways, E-fan conversion, 28+ mpg - auto tranny. 850 mi/week commute.