Do I have to compro...
 

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[Closed] Do I have to compromise?

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 Kip
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Ok, I know this is a popular type of post but I still have questions.
We want to buy a van. We cannot afford to buy new or a VW transporter of the quality we would like.
We can afford a Transit or Trafic/Vivaro. We know that Pre-04 the Trafic/Vivaro has major gear box/mechanical issues and that Transits have rust issues.
We would like to spend 5 1/2K max inc vat and have less than 80-90K miles on it.
Do we have to compromise on the style and comfort and go for a Transit but avoid potential mechanical issues, or get good bodywork and styling etc but risk major mechanical failings on the 05 onwards Trafic/Vivaro?
Please help. What have you found? Any other options except Hiace (Love one but none available round here in good nick!) or Vito (cost).


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 2:54 pm
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sell everything you own, buy an old gypsy caravan and a couple of horses, you know it makes sense.


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 2:57 pm
 Kip
Posts: 147
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Oh, don't joke...right now that's fast becoming an option. The question is - Shire or Clydesdale? Which has better fuel economy and less breakdowns?


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:03 pm
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Why not look for an older transporter in great nick? A late T4 that has been owned privately from new will cost less than 5.5K. Also look at Caravelles - basically a van, but with windows/carpets removable seats and all the toys.


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:07 pm
 Kip
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Ah yes, the mythical older T4 in great nick. We live in the south west, they don't exist anymore. They did cos my mate has one, alas they are no more...unless you know of one?


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:14 pm
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Plenty for sale in the classified section of www.vwt4forum.co.uk (you have to register to see 'em)


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:19 pm
 Kip
Posts: 147
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Cheers, will look but still want opinions on the Transit or trafic/Vivaro debate. There are other reasons for looking at other vans, mainly size and Value For Money.


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:24 pm
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Paid less than that for my T5, took a few months of hunting to find the right one, aircon, mileage, windows seats etc. Actually couldn't find a kombi with aircon for the right money so I ended up converting a panel van.

Keep looking, something will come up... commercial vehicle auctions might be worth a look


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:25 pm
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Paid less than that for my T5

Private i presume ?

I am hunting for a T5 at the mo, Kombi's are a pain to find, how much did it cost you to convert ?

Sorry hijack over !!


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:29 pm
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Yes private, and £1100 for a conversion with Genuine VW parts, could be done cheaper with non VW bits or less seats. I now have 3 in the front and a triple folding bench in the back.

[url= http://www.flickr.com/photos/wickedandlazy/sets/72157621653151015/ ]Couple of pics on Flickr[/url]

Next step.. chequer plate flooring, insulation and a bed that folds out over the folded bench seat


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:45 pm
 hora
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WAIT. Patience and buy a Hiace PRIVATELY. Be prepared to travel upto 100miles IMO. Better patience and buy one happily.


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:47 pm
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Filthy

Looks good, who did the conversion ?

If i could find the right van i would do a conversion too, not many 130's with tailgate and Air Con knocking around !!


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 3:53 pm
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Specialist Vehicles in Preston did the conversion, cant find a link at the moment. I'll try and dig the reciept out later if you need a number.


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 4:00 pm
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Kip the nche caravanner uses Suffolk Punches as any fule kno!


 
Posted : 26/10/2009 4:10 pm

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