Posted by Charlie on September 01, 1998 at 19:29:23:
In Reply to: V8 Conversion for WDX posted by Harry Davis on September 01, 1998 at 14:18:51:
I share your sentiments re gas V8s, ESPECIALLY with automatics. But I strongly disagree with the inference that the PW, as a work vehicle, "cannot be improved upon". A (4 cylinder direct injection, 3.6-4.1L) diesel, manual 5 speed with ~6:1 1st gear but overdrive, perhaps 4.89 gears depending on percentage of intended road use (if the motor provides sufficient additional torque), front disk brakes and perhaps power steering: all these are improvements that enhance the intended function of the vehicle. If they were "industry standard" in 1946, they would have been available. And if the US Army had "gone diesel" in 1940, instead of 1980, you can bet the WCs, PWs, and M37s would have come with a cute little 4 cyl or 6 cyl diesel. Mine do, and I am not ashamed of the fact. After driving these rigs with both types of motor, there's no question which I prefer (the diesel that goes 70 mph top speed, gets 18 mpg, starts effortlessly, never fouls plugs, never needs tuneups, and has massive - much superior to the flathead - low end torque).
Charlie