doc_z

All the stuff you listed is small, and I think 80# is BIG. Maybe something like alloy heads would contribute. It sounds like a trim problem, though. Move heavy components forward...including engine, if necessary. Shifting the engine a few inches fwd. might do it alone.

Some professional, smog licenses...Shade tree for a few years, it paid the rent, and maintenance since 1963. Built a number of cars to go faster, quicker, better more since then. I'm in the middle of a scary learning curve now, building up my 72 super beetle. It's a 2176 with everything trick and ChoMo. There are pics and details at: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/VwSuperBeetles/?yguid=163854191 Under photos: 72 super beetle project. After the engine is the xmsn and suspension, then interior and tunes. Then paint.