QUOTE(Roy @ Mar 15 2009, 03:24 PM)
Hiya fellas, I've got the unique opportunity of having two parts cars both with full A/C. One car has the VPC system and the other a DPD. Both systems look ok but I will likely send them out for refurbishment. So overall I'm wondering which system to go with? This will be in to a '73 2.0. I don't mind cutting up the car to fit the system as I will go about it much more gingerly than the dealers originally did and I will make sure to rust-proof my cuts. Are the differences mostly aesthetic? Does one system give more luggage space than the other? Does one cool better? Does one have a nicer install or require less cutting? Is one more 'correct' for a '73? This is not a question of whether I should or should not. My mind is made up and I have read enough posts to know that when in good working condition a 914 A/C system can make my girlfriend's important bits look 'perky' so please don't try to dissuade me. I am aware of the high horsepower consumption of the system and the availability of newer, more modern systems. I want a period correct, close to stock A/C system with the least possible modern upgrades for usefulness. A/C enthusiasts please reply!
Roy,
I've heard that there's a better aftermarket dual condenser AC system available from Auto Atlanta (I think), which I saw while searching the net for parts cars, etc. for my 73-2L repair/resto. It's supposed to be far more efficient, cools better & uses the new R-134 freon (I've converted my `85 BMW 325e & `88 Westfalia to R-134, but no air in the 914).
You might google & look at the likely suspects on-line.
The actual DPD or VPC full system would only be critical if you're doing concours stuff where they count/ding points for that stuff. Others on here are far better advisors for that than me! Although I've owned mine since 2/76, I'm more of a driver/admirer than a "show guy".
You could still use the interior parts for the right "look" & hook that "newer tech" system up to, in which case the DPD both looked better (controls and vents are more attuned to & in balance with the 914 dast/center consoles, and it's supposed to havemuch better air distribution.
That's my 2 cents - hope it helps!
Tom T
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