The fourth generation of Volkswagen Transporter light-duty vehicles first appeared back in 1990. The model was so successful that the mass production decided not to close. So, the Volkswagen Transporter T4 car was produced until 2003. After that, he was replaced by the fifth generation of these light-duty trucks. For what motorists “Transporter T4” love so much, a photo and a review of the car are further in our article.
Design
For 1990, this car looked very modern. Then in honor were sharp chopped forms. The design of the car did not have expressive and smooth lines. This is a simple working “horse”, which should fulfill its function without fail - to transport small things and materials. Design did not come first, as it is now. The machine was actively used in urban services in Germany. In old films, by the way, you can see the police and collector T4.
Also note that the car was produced in several versions of the body. There was a short and elongated modification (see photo above). So, the length of the body ranged 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 cab, with an on-board body or platform for installing various elements. Volkswagen T4 transporter minibuses with panoramic glazing were in no less demand. They received the name "Multivan" and were equipped with a separate motor, which we will mention during the review.
Body geometry
Despite such angular shapes and rectangular optics, the car turned out to be very pretty and - not least - with the lowest coefficient of aerodynamic drag. The geometry of the body is built so that this parameter does not exceed 0.36 Cx. For cars of this class, this was a kind of record. Are there any problems with the body of the car "Transporter T4"? Responses of owners note that the metal is perfectly protected from corrosion. So, the manufacturer galvanized the panel of the supporting body, and filled the internal cavities (including thresholds) with hot wax, which prevented the appearance of foci of corrosion.
However, twenty years later, rust began to emerge in places "sandblasting." These are sills and wheel arches. Also, corrosion was between the second and third window. Nevertheless, there is no rot through even on the bottom, and this is a big plus for a car with this age.
Salon
The interior of the Volkswagen Transporter T4 car was made simply and without frills.
Design - characteristic for that time. Simple angular shapes and a minimum of inserts. Owner reviews point to one feature. Despite the fact that the car was produced in the 90th year, ergonomics are up to date. All buttons and control levers are as convenient as possible for the driver. Also inside there are many niches and drawers. Armchairs - moderately hard and with good lateral support. Because of the convenience, these seats are often installed on domestic GAZelles and Sables. The passenger modification was designed for 9 people, including the driver. As for the Volkswagen Transporter T4 truck, the carrying capacity was 1,200 kilograms. This was quite enough for a car of this class.
The car coped with the transportation of goods “perfectly” - say the reviews of the owners. By the way, in passenger versions, the cabin has the ability to transform. The seatbacks can be folded into a comfortable table. And when transporting bulky items and completely dismantle them from the sled. Fortunately, this is done very quickly.
Specifications
The fourth generation of "Transporters" was equipped with different engines. Among gasoline units were from 2 to 2.5 liters. They gave out power of 84-115 horsepower. But in most cases, the Volkswagen T4 Transporter came with diesel engines. So, in the basic configuration, it was equipped with a 68-horsepower unit with a displacement of 1.9 liters.
But the most successful is the 2.5-liter diesel engine, which developed 110 power.
Multivan
Separately, it is worth noting the power unit for the passenger modification "Multivan". This Volkswagen T4 Transporter was equipped with a 2.8-liter petrol six-cylinder engine. The unit was distinguished by a V-shaped arrangement of cylinders and developed a capacity of 204 horsepower. These characteristics are more than enough even in modern operating conditions. Acceleration to hundreds took 11 and a half seconds. The maximum speed is 194 kilometers per hour.
Suspension
It uses a double wishbone independent suspension. At the rear are telescopic shock absorbers and coil springs (not on all versions). In a circle mounted disc brakes. The control mechanism is rack and pinion, additionally equipped with a hydraulic booster. Reviews note the presence of weak stabilization racks. Silent blocks and levers are sold in the kit, and their replacement will cost a round sum (however, this must be done once every 200 thousand kilometers). The rest of the suspension does not require attention and pleases with reliable operation.
Transmission
Basically, the Volkswagen T4 Transporter was equipped with a five-speed “mechanics”. However, the lineup was a 4-speed automatic. How reliable is the transmission in the Transporter T4? Box repair (partial) is required after 150 thousand kilometers. Over time, the PTFE bushings of the backstage fail. Also on the secondary shaft "cuts" the fifth gear gear, due to which the bearings fail. If the transmission was equipped with an intermediate suspension support, it is worth paying attention to the gland. It can leak.
As for the service, according to the manufacturer, the oil in the mechanical transmission is filled for the entire period of operation. But since the car is more than 20 years old, motorists still recommend replacing the lubricant (better already a hundred thousand). As for automatic transmissions (of which there are very few generations on Transporters 4), oil change here should be done every 60 thousand. Otherwise, the torque converter will fail.
Reviews
Motorists respond to the car "Volkswagen T4 Transporter" very positively. Despite its age, the machine continues to delight with its reliability. The fourth "Transporter" copes with the conditions of the Russian winter, does not require frequent repairs, has a strong body that does not rot. Thanks to the front-wheel drive, the machine is easy to control, the suspension works well pits and bumps. Soundproofing is made at a decent level.
Among the shortcomings, the lack of new spare parts should be noted. If it is possible to find the part, then only from disassembly (with the exception of consumables). The 1.9-liter engine has very weak dynamics. If you buy, then it is a 2.5-liter unit. Another problem is the damper clutch. Its resource is quite large, but to 300-400 thousand it requires replacement. The price of the damper clutch is 600-800 dollars. Also, over 20 years, door hinges have sagged.
Car cost
At the moment, the car is sold in the secondary market for 150-400 thousand rubles. The price depends heavily on the condition, modification (since there were short and elongated versions) and the technical “stuffing”. However, after the purchase, you need to prepare for the fact that many parts will go under replacement. Only after a quality repair will this car 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 modern design. Such a car will be less demanding on maintenance. Owners are also skeptical about using an automatic box. It should not be in freight transport.