Volkswagen Transporter (T4) Panel Van 2.4 D (78 Hp) Automatic L2H2


Overall Rating

7.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 2.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Volkswagen Transporter:

The Volkswagen Transporter, based on the Volkswagen Group's T platform, now in its seventh generation, refers to a series of vans produced for over 70 years and marketed worldwide.
The T series is now considered an official Volkswagen Group automotive platform. and generations are sequentially named T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T7. Pre-dating the T platform designations, the first three generations were named Type 2, indicating their relative position to the Type 1, or Beetle. As part of the T platform, the first three generations are retroactively named T1, T2 and T3....(Read more on Wikipedia)

(T4) Panel Van Overview:

Volkswagen Transporter ((T4) Panel Van). With 164 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1725 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 127 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.4 D (78 Hp) Automatic L2H2 Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The 78 Hp diesel with an automatic in the largest L2H2 body will be slow, prioritizing durability and economy over brisk performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption of 11.9 l/100 km is higher than other 2.4 D automatics, likely due to the larger body and increased drag/weight.

Best Use Case: Heavy, bulky loads in urban settings where low-speed maneuverability and reliability are key, and fuel economy is still a concern.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Legendary reliability and durability, known to cover high mileages.
  • • Highly versatile and spacious cargo area, available in various lengths and heights.
  • • Strong aftermarket support and readily available parts.
  • • Simple, robust mechanicals make for easier maintenance and repairs.
  • • Excellent resale value for a commercial vehicle of its age.

Cons:

  • • Dated safety features compared to modern vans, lacking advanced driver aids.
  • • Petrol engines can be very thirsty, leading to high running costs.
  • • Lower-powered diesel engines offer very modest performance, especially when loaded.
  • • Basic interior comfort and amenities, typical for a 90s commercial vehicle.
  • • Prone to rust, particularly in older models if not well-maintained.

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Volkswagen
Model:Transporter
Generation:(T4) Panel Van
Modification (Engine):2.4 D (78 Hp) Automatic L2H2
Start of production:1990
End of production:1995
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Van
Seats:2
Doors:4-5
Engine:
Power:78 Hp @ 3700 rpm.
Power per litre:32.9 Hp/l
Torque:164 Nm @ 1800-2200 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:AAB
Engine displacement:2370
Number of cylinders:5
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:SOHC
Engine oil capacity:5.5 l
Coolant:9 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:79.5 mm
Piston Stroke:95.5 mm
Compression ratio:22.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:11.9 l/100 km
Maximum speed:127 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:22.1 kg/Hp, 45.2 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:10.5 kg/Nm, 95.1 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1725
Max. weight:2640-2800
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:915-1075
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:7800 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:
Length:5055 mm
Width:1840 mm
Height:2400 mm
Wheelbase:3320 mm
Front track:1575 mm
Rear (Back) track:1540 mm
Front overhang:860 mm
Rear overhang:875 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):180 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):12.9 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDrum
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/70 R15; 205/65 R15; 215/65 R15
Wheel rims size6J x 15; 7J x 15
Front suspensionIndependent torsion bar, double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent coil spring, Trailing arm

If you could change one thing about the Volkswagen Transporter, what would it be?