In rec.autos.makers.vw.watercooled, Joseph Meehan wrote:

>VW Golf Cart wrote:
>> What would be the result of not having a Catalytic Converter?
>>
>> More exhaust odor? Less Fuel economy?
>
> For the most part the result will be more pollution coming out the
>tailpipe. It also will not pass any mandated test. There are possibilities
>for some very minor increase or decrease in performance and a slight chance
>of damage to the engine.
>
>>
>> Mine was gutted from previous owner and I haven't had the money to
>> replace.
>
> When I hear that, I suspect it really means either "I have other things
>I want more." or "I really don't have enough money to own a car and likely
>don't have insurance." I hope that does not apply here. Never put off any
>safety related issue. Park the car first.

Catalytic converter is safety-related? Let's hear *that* reasoning.