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Volkswagen Caravelle (T4, facelift 1996) Long 2.5 (110 Hp) Syncro
Overall Rating
Volkswagen Caravelle:
Volkswagen Caravelle is the nameplate of a van based on the Volkswagen Transporter. For information about the Caravelle, refer to the regular Transporter articles:....(Read more on Wikipedia)
(T4, facelift 1996) Long Overview:
Volkswagen Caravelle ((T4, facelift 1996) Long). With 195 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1900 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. The top speed reaches 159 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
2.5 (110 Hp) Syncro Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Similar to the 115hp Syncro but with slightly less power. The Syncro system provides excellent grip in adverse conditions.
Fuel Economy
High fuel consumption due to the combination of petrol engine, lower power, and Syncro drivetrain. Not ideal for economy-focused buyers.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional versatility and spacious interior for passengers or cargo.
- • Robust and reliable build quality, leading to long lifespan.
- • Wide range of engine options, including efficient TDI diesels.
- • Good ride comfort for a van, especially in Caravelle trim.
- • Strong aftermarket support and community.
Cons:
- • Older petrol engines can be very thirsty.
- • Some lower-powered diesel engines feel underpowered when fully loaded.
- • Lack of modern safety features (no Euro NCAP rating).
- • Rust can be an issue on older, neglected models.
- • Interior plastics can feel dated compared to modern vehicles.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation((T4) Long: 1993 - 1995).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Volkswagen |
| Model: | Caravelle |
| Generation: | (T4, facelift 1996) Long |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.5 (110 Hp) Syncro |
| Start of production: | 1996 |
| End of production: | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Van |
| Seats: | 6-9 |
| Doors: | 4-5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 110 Hp @ 4500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 44.7 Hp/l [134mm more] |
| Torque: | 195 Nm @ 2200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | ACU, AEN, AEU More details about the engine ACU, AEN, AEU |
| Engine displacement: | 2461 |
| Number of cylinders: | 5 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 11.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 81 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 95.5 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.3 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 159 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 17.3 kg/Hp, 57.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 9.7 kg/Nm, 102.6 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1900 |
| Max. weight: | 2700-2800 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 800-900 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 6300 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 2000 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 700 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 100 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Wading depth: | 350 mm |
| Length: | 5189 mm mm [134mm more] |
| Width: | 1840 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1940 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 3320 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2175 mm |
| Front track: | 1589 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1554 mm |
| Front overhang: | 968 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 901 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 180 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 12.9 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Trailing arm |
What’s the best feature of the Volkswagen Caravelle? Tell us in the comments!