"Volkswagen T4 Transporter": reviews, photos, characteristics

The fourth generation of low-tonnage vehicles "Volkswagen Transporter" first appeared in 1990. The model was so successful that they decided not to close the batch production. So, the car "Volkswagen Transporter T4" was produced until 2003. After that, it was replaced by the fifth generation of these small tonnage trucks. For which the motorists "Transporter T4", photo and car review are so fond - in our article.

Design

For 1990, this car looked very modern. Then in pride were sharp chopped forms. The design of the car did not have expressive and smooth lines. This is a simple workhorse, which must function reliably to carry small things and materials. The design did not stand in the first place, as it is now. The machine was actively used in city services in Germany. In old movies, by the way, you can see policemen and cash collectors "T4".

Also note that the car was produced in several versions of the body. There was a short and long version (see photo above). So, the length of the body was from 4.7 to 5.1 meters, and the height - from 1.94 to 2.43. The width of all modifications was unchanged - 184 centimeters. In total, six versions of the Volkswagen Transporter T4 were available. The machine was offered with a double or single cabin, with an onboard body or a platform for installing different elements. Equally popular were passenger minibuses "Volkswagen Transporter T4" with panoramic glazing. They received the name "Multivan" and were equipped with a separate motor, which we will mention in the course of the review.

Body geometry

Despite such angular shapes and rectangular optics, the car turned out to be very pretty and - most importantly - with the least coefficient of aerodynamic resistance. The geometry of the body is constructed in such a way that this parameter does not exceed 0.36 Cx. For cars of this class it was a kind of record. Are there any problems with the body of the vehicle "Transporter T4"? The owners' feedback denies that the metal is perfectly protected from corrosion. So, the manufacturer galvanized the panel of a bearing body, and filled the internal cavities (including the thresholds) with hot wax, which prevented the appearance of foci of corrosion. However, after twenty years rust began to show through in the places of "sandblasting". These are thresholds and wheel arches. Also, corrosion was between the second and third window. Nevertheless, there is not a through rot even on the bottom, and this is a big plus for a car with that age.

Salon

The inner part of the car "Volkswagen Transporter T4" was made simply and without any frills. Design - characteristic for that time. Simple angular shapes and minimum inserts. The owners' reviews mark one feature. Despite the fact that the car was manufactured in the 90th year, ergonomics are at the level of modernity. All buttons and controls are most convenient for the driver. Also inside there are many niches and drawers. Armchairs - moderately rigid and with good lateral support. Because of the convenience of these seats are often installed on domestic "GAZel" and "Soboli". Passenger modification was designed for 9 people, including the driver. As for the Volkswagen Transporter T4 truck, the load-carrying capacity was 1200 kilograms. This was quite enough for a car of this class. With the transportation of goods the car coped "perfectly well" - they noted the owners' feedback. By the way, in passenger versions the salon has the possibility of transformation. The seatbacks can be folded into a comfortable table. And when transporting large-sized things and completely dismantle them from the sled. The benefit is done very quickly.

Specifications

The fourth generation of the "Transporters" was manned by different engines. Among the petrol were units with a volume of 2 to 2.5 liters. They produced a power of 84-115 horsepower. But in most cases, the Volkswagen T4 Conveyor came with diesel engines. So, in the basic configuration it was equipped with a 68-strong unit with a working volume of 1.9 liters. But the most successful is the 2.5-liter diesel engine, which developed 110 power.

Multivan

Separately it is necessary to note the power unit for the passenger modification "Multivan". This "Volkswagen T4 Conveyor" was equipped with a petrol six-cylinder engine of 2.8 liters. The unit was characterized by a V-shaped arrangement of the cylinders and developed a power of 204 horsepower. These characteristics with a margin is sufficient even in modern operating conditions. Acceleration to a hundred took 11 and a half seconds. The maximum speed is 194 kilometers per hour.

Suspension

It uses a double-lever independent suspension. In the rear part - telescopic shock absorbers and helical springs (not on all versions). The disc brakes are arranged in a circle. The control mechanism is rack and pinion, additionally equipped with a hydraulic booster. The reviews indicate the presence of weak stabilization posts. Silentblocks and levers are sold as a bundle, and their replacement will cost a round sum (although it should be done once in 200 thousand kilometers). In the rest, the suspension does not require attention to itself and pleases with reliable work.

Transmission

In general, the Volkswagen T4 Transporter was equipped with a five-step "mechanics". However, in the lineup there was a 4-step "automatic". How reliable is the transmission in the vehicle "Transporter T4"? Repair of the box (partial) is required after 150 thousand kilometers. Over time, the fluoroplastic bushings of the link go out of action. Also on the secondary shaft "cuts off" the gear of the fifth gear, because of what the bearings fail. If the transmission was equipped with an intermediate suspension support, it is worth paying attention to the stuffing box. It can leak. As for the service, then, according to the manufacturer, the oil in the mechanical transmission is flooded for the entire service life. But since the car is more than 20 years old, motorists recommend nevertheless to replace the lubricant (it is better already for one hundred thousand). As for the automatic boxes (of which there are very few on the "Transports" 4), the oil should be replaced every 60 thousand here. Otherwise, the torque converter will fail.

Reviews

Motorists respond about the car "Volkswagen T4 Transporter" very positively. Despite its age, the machine continues to please its reliability. The fourth "Transporter" does an excellent job in the conditions of the Russian winter, does not require frequent repairs, has a sturdy body that does not rot. Thanks to the front drive the machine is easily operated, the suspension works well pits and irregularities. Sound insulation is performed at a decent level. Among the shortcomings, it should be noted the lack of new spare parts. If you can find the part, then only with disassembly (except consumables). The 1.9-liter engine is very weak dynamics. If you buy, it is a 2.5-liter unit. Another problem is the damping coupling. Its resource is large enough, but it needs replacement to 300-400 thousand. The price of damper coupling is 600-800 dollars. Also, for 20 years, the hinges of the doors are hanging.

Car price

At the moment the car is sold in the secondary market for 150-400 thousand rubles. The price strongly depends on the state, modification (as there were short and long versions) and technical "stuffing". However, after buying, you need to prepare for the fact that many details will go under the replacement. Only after qualitative repairs this car will again please its (already new) owner.

Conclusion

So, we found out what the "Volkswagen T4 Transporter" is. As you can see, this car is worthy of attention. However, if the budget allows, it is better to purchase the fifth generation of the "Transporter" with an updated line of engines and a modern design. Such a car will be less demanding of maintenance. Also, owners are skeptical about using an automatic box. It should not be on a truck transport.