I have owned an Honda Odyssey and have driven stock beach rental dune buggies many years ago. I have a 470 acre property in central Texas that is mostly wooded, but also has miles of dirt roads. There are also several miles of single track trail just wide enough for a four wheeler.

I presently own four dirt bikes and two four wheelers but would like to add a buggy to the mix. I am torn between buying a new mini sand rail from Sean at http://www.minisandrail.net/ or just buying a used good condition modified VW buggy like the one here http://dallas.craigslist.org/ftw/rvs/783108930.html

It seems like all the Chinese buggies have to be modified so much to be reliable. But then I wonder whether a 1600cc buggy has way better suspension, better handling, and better acceleration than am equivalent priced used VW buggy.

I don't need a super nimble buggy like an Odyssey. I want great suspension (no rocks at all but lots of dry creek crossings), great acceleration (top speed of 65-70 mph ok), and good enough handling to be able to drift turns without worrying about flipping easily.

Do I want a brand new 1600cc mini sand rail or a used quality VW based buggy?
Bill

I was very happy with my 1100 from Sean....However, I was not at all impressed with the 1600 I saw....Not gunna hold up for hitting those crossings....My 1100 held up MUCH better....

I would suggest the VW with IRS, I don't like the early swingarm rears....The IRS buggies can be made to ride very well with proper shocks and parts are everywhere.....You can also upgrade the VW engine easier.........

Or get something like this e-ticket ride....I know a couple were Texas off road adapted....

http://lasvegas.craigslist.org/rvs/756621803.html

Good luck either way

Don't know if found a rail or not but I've been looking for a rail or buggy along those lines. Here are a couple that I have found. Not much info on them. I'm going to look at them next month and can let you know of the quallity if you'd like. Price on the 2 I'm looking at are $14500 for the VW and $18000 for the 2.0L. They are both long travel (14"-18")entry level as I've been calling them.

who is the manufacturer of BAJA?