Volkswagen Transporter (T4) Panel Van 1.9 TD (68 Hp) 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 140 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1620 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 126 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.9 TD (68 Hp) L2H2 Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The turbocharger provides a noticeable improvement in torque and drivability over naturally aspirated diesels, making it more capable for varied tasks.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy data is missing, but this engine is generally known for good efficiency, especially for a van of its size.

Best Use Case: Light to medium duty, mixed urban and occasional highway driving, where a balance of power and economy is desired.

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:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation((T4) Panel Van: 1990 - 1995).

General:
Brand:Volkswagen
Model:Transporter
Generation:(T4) Panel Van
Modification (Engine):1.9 TD (68 Hp) L2H2
Start of production:1992
End of production:1995
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Van
Seats:2
Doors:4-5
Engine:
Power:68 Hp @ 3700 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:35.9 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:140 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:ABL More details about the engine ABL
Engine displacement:1896
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:SOHC
Engine oil capacity: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
Maximum speed:126 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:23.8 kg/Hp, 42 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:11.6 kg/Nm, 86.4 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1620
Max. weight:2565-2750
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:945-1130
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 [Same length.]
Width:1840 mm [Same width.]
Height:2400 mm [460mm more]
Wheelbase:3320 mm [Same wheelbase.]
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 [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
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?