Volkswagen T3 is all about mators. The history of the development of the Volkswagen Transporter model range. Prices for Transporter T3

The Volkswagen Transporter is one of the most reliable vehicles in the minivan class. The model is considered a successor of the Kafer machine, previously produced by the German concern. Thanks to its thoughtful design and unique technical characteristics, the Volkswagen Transporter has become extremely popular all over the world. This car has undergone relatively minor changes and practically did not succumb to temporary influence. VW Transporter is the largest member of the Volkswagen family. The model was also offered in Multivan, California and Caravelle versions.

Model history and purpose

The debut of the first generation of the minivan took place back in 1950. Then the Volkswagen Transporter could boast of a large carrying capacity - about 860 kg. Its design featured a huge company logo and a stylized 2-piece windshield.

Volkswagen Transporter T2 generation

The second generation, which appeared in 1967, became a landmark for the model. The developers have kept the basic approaches in terms of design and chassis. Volkswagen Transporter T2 was extremely popular (almost 70% of cars were exported). The car was distinguished by a more comfortable cabin with an undivided front glass, a powerful unit and an improved suspension. Sliding side doors complemented the picture. In 1979, the production of the model ended. However, in 1997, the production of the second Volkswagen Transporter reopened in Mexico and Brazil. The model finally left the market only in 2013.

Volkswagen Transporter T3 generation

In the late 1970s, it was time for the third generation of the minivan. The Volkswagen Transporter T3 has many innovations, and the wheelbase has grown by 60 mm. At the same time, the width increased by 125 mm, and the weight by 60 kg. The power plant was again placed at the back, although at that time the design was already considered outdated. This did not prevent the model from becoming incredibly popular in the USSR, Germany and Austria. The Volkswagen Transporter 3 had a wide range of additional equipment: tachometer, electric mirrors, power windows, heated seats, headlight cleaning function, central locking and windshield wipers. Later, the model was equipped with air conditioning and all-wheel drive. The main problem of the VW Transporter T3 was the poor anti-corrosion coating. Some parts were covered with rust rather quickly. The car was Volkswagen's last European rear-engined product. By the early 1990s, the design of the model was seriously outdated, and the brand began developing a replacement for it.

Volkswagen Transporter T4 generation

VW Transporter T4 turned out to be a real "bomb". The model received changes in style and design (completely redesigned transmission). The manufacturer finally abandoned the rear-wheel drive, replacing it with a front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive modifications also appeared. The car was produced with several types of bodies. The basic version is with an unglazed cargo body. The simple passenger modification is called the Caravelle. It was distinguished by good plastic, 3 rows of quick-detachable seats with various types of upholstery, 2 heaters and plastic interior trim. In the Multivan version, the salon received seats placed to each other. The interior is complemented by a sliding table. The flagship of the family was the Vestfalia / California variation - a model with a lifting roof and a lot of equipment. In the late 90s, the Volkswagen Transporter 4 was updated with redesigned front fenders, a hood, a longer front end and beveled headlights.

Volkswagen Transporter T5 generation

The debut of the VW Transporter T5 took place in 2003. Like its predecessor, the car received a front transverse arrangement of the unit. More top-end versions (Multivan, Caravelle, California) differed from the classic modification in chrome stripes on the body. In the fifth Volkswagen Transporter, several technical innovations appeared. So, all diesel units were equipped with a turbocharger, unit injector and direct injection. The expensive variations now have four-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. VW Transporter T5 became the first generation of the minivan, which has ceased to be exported to America. Additionally, a premium version of the GP has appeared. Volkswagen Transporter is currently being manufactured at a plant in Kaluga (Russia).

Volkswagen Transporter T6 generation

In August last year, the sixth generation Volkswagen Transporter was released. Russian sales of the model began a little later. The car got to dealers in van, minivan and chassis bodies. In comparison with its predecessor, there were not so many changes in the T6. The base for it was the T5 platform. The model has got new foglights, headlights, bumpers and a revised grille. LED lights appeared at the back. Also, the Volkswagen Transporter was equipped with rectangular turn signal repeaters, an enlarged rear window and new fenders. Inside, there are improved seats with 12-way adjustment, advanced multimedia with a large display, a navigator, a progressive panel, a tailgate closer and a functional steering wheel. The sixth Volkswagen Transporter has become more modern and respectable, but retained the outlines and individual qualities of the T4 and T5 versions.

Engine

The current generation of the minivan is characterized by a wide range of engines with high technical capabilities. The petrol units used in the VW Transporter T5 are distinguished by high tightness of the systems. According to this indicator, they are among the leaders, although in the fourth generation it was this characteristic that was considered the most problematic.

Diesel engines cannot be called the strong point of the minivan. However, some experts still call them among the most successful. It is diesel modifications that remain the most demanded. The units are famous for their unpretentiousness and low fuel consumption. Volkswagen Transporter diesels are built very simply and therefore rarely break down. They are also repairable and have a high degree of wear resistance.

Characteristics of VW Transporter T5 units:

1.19-liter TDI (in-line):

• power - 63 (86) kW (hp);
• torque - 200 Nm;
• maximum speed - 146 km / h;
• acceleration to 100 km / h - 23.6 seconds;
• fuel consumption - 7.6 l / 100 km.

2.19-liter TDI (in-line):

• power - 77 (105) kW (hp);
• torque - 250 Nm;
• maximum speed - 159 km / h;
• acceleration to 100 km / h - 18.4 seconds;
• fuel consumption - 7.7 l / 100 km.

3. 2.5-liter TDI (in-line):

• power - 96 (130) kW (hp);
• torque - 340 Nm;
• maximum speed - 168 km / h;
• acceleration to 100 km / h - 15.3 seconds;
• fuel consumption - 8 l / 100 km.

4. 2.5-liter TDI (in-line):

• power - 128 (174) kW (hp);
• torque - 400 Nm;
• maximum speed - 188 km / h;
• acceleration to 100 km / h - 12.2 seconds;
• fuel consumption - 8 l / 100 km.

5.2 liter petrol unit (in-line):

• power - 85 (115) kW (hp);
• torque - 170 Nm;
• maximum speed - 163 km / h;
• acceleration to 100 km / h - 17.8 seconds;
• fuel consumption - 11 l / 100 km.

6. 3.2-liter gasoline unit (in-line):

• power - 173 (235) kW (hp);
• torque - 315 Nm;
• maximum speed - 205 km / h;
• acceleration to 100 km / h - 10.5 seconds;
• fuel consumption - 12.4 l / 100 km.

The line of power plants Volkswagen Transporter T6:

1. 2-liter TSI petrol engine - 150 hp;
2. 2-liter TSI DSG petrol engine - 204 hp;
3. 2-liter TDI diesel - 102 hp;
4. 2-liter TDI diesel - 140 hp;
5. 2 Liter TDI Diesel - 180 HP

Device

The advent of the Volkswagen Transporter T4 (and then the T5 and T6) broke with the tradition of rear-engine and rear-wheel drive minivans. The all-wheel drive modification received another feature - the torque was distributed between the axle shafts of the driving wheels by means of a viscous clutch. The transmission of the drive to the wheels was carried out by means of "automatic" or "mechanics".

The changes that appeared in the Volkswagen Transporter 5 were revolutionary. They also allowed the sixth generation to remain in the segment leaders. According to the technical characteristics, the models look perfect. In reality, these cars have their drawbacks. Particular vigilance should be exercised when buying a used Volkswagen Transporter T4 (in the latest generation, most of the problems of the predecessor have been eliminated).

In terms of design, the latest modifications to the minivan rarely cause inconvenience. But they are very susceptible to corrosion. Poor storage conditions accelerate this process. Another weakness is leaks appearing in the power steering system. The T4 generation often fails with steering rods, oil seals, stabilizer struts, shock absorbers and ball joints. In Russian models, wheel bearings also wear out quickly.

There are also problems with the Volkswagen Transporter engines. Old diesel engines often suffer from pump failure and rapid loss of fuel fluid. Plugs and glow control system fail regularly. In more recent TDI versions, the most common problems are related to the flow meter, turbocharger and fuel injection system. Gasoline units are much more reliable. They are less prone to breakage than diesel options. True, in terms of fuel consumption, they are noticeably inferior to them. At the same time, their long-term service cannot be fully guaranteed, and most often ignition coils, a starter, sensors and a generator break down in gasoline engines.

Despite the problems described above, the Volkswagen Transporter remains one of the most reliable models in its segment. With proper care, the latest generations of the minivan will serve and perform their functions for a very long time.

The price of a new and used Volkswagen Transporter

The price tags for the new Volkswagen Transporter depend on the configuration:

• “Minimal salary” with a short base - from 1.633-1.913 million rubles;
• Kasten with a long base - from 2.262 million rubles;
• Kombi with a short base - from 1,789-2,158 million rubles;
• Kombi with a long base - from 1.882-2.402 million rubles;
• Chassis / Pritsche Eka with a long base - from 1,466-1,569 million rubles.

There are quite a few used versions of the Volkswagen Transporter on the Russian market, because their cost varies greatly.

The third generation (1986-1989) on the go will cost 70,000-150,000 rubles. Volkswagen Transporter T4 (1993-1996) in normal condition will cost 190,000-270000 rubles, Volkswagen Transporter T5 (2006-2008) - 500,000-800,000 rubles, Volkswagen Transporter T5 (2010-2013) - 1.1- 1.3 million rubles.

Analogs

Among the competitors of the Volkswagen Transporter, we should highlight the cars Peugeot Partner VU, Citroen Jumpy Fourgon and Mercedes-Benz Vito.

The Volkswagen Transporter T3 is a minibus that was produced between 1979 and 1992. Its distinctive feature is rear-wheel drive. The vehicle is available in several body versions and provides a high seating position for all passengers in the cabin. The car is suitable for family trips, long-distance travel with friends.

History of creation

The first minibus from Volkswagen with excellent driving performance was developed in the first half of 1979. Unlike its predecessors, this vehicle was more spacious. Depending on the modification, the dimensions of the T3 Transporter had different indicators. In particular, the parameters of the Caravelle T3 are as follows: 1844 × 4569 × 1928 mm.

Since the mid-1980s. air conditioning began to be installed on minibuses, which will create comfortable conditions for passengers in the cabin. From this time period on the Syncro model there was a four-wheel drive. The car was equipped with electric windows. It was possible to automatically adjust the exterior mirrors. It should be noted that there are wipers. The installation of an anti-lock braking system has been introduced since 1986, which increases the degree of safety when maneuvering. Thanks to technical improvements, an impressive smoothness of the car began to be noted.

Modifications

Initially, potential car owners were offered a choice of models with different body types. Modifications:

• Volkswagen Transporter T3 245 type - a truck with a platform and sides and an open body;
• Type 247 - flatbed truck with a short, closed body;
• Type 251 - closed box van;
• Type 253 - minibus with a closed body;
• Type 255 - 9-seat closed-body bus.

Each type of transport has a different number of seats. A van and a truck with an open body, a minibus with 9 seats are designed for 3 people.

The four-wheel drive vehicle Syncro is suitable for commercial transport. The luxury version of the Caravelle Carat has alloy wheels, low ground clearance, and an audio system in the cabin. Westfalia Camper is equipped with a timing belt drive, turbodiesel power plant.

A full-fledged family minibus is the VW Multivan generation. It is distinguished by good cargo and passenger capabilities. It is designed for 6 seats. The car's engine is installed at the rear.

Cabin interior

The developers paid maximum attention to the interior design. The Caravelle Carat has velor single seats with easy-care armrests. It should be noted that the car has wide tires. The installed mirrors provide the required level of passive safety.

The Multivan Whitestar Carat passenger minivan features large plastic bumpers. The frame is securely fixed and has an optimal degree of rigidity. There is a folding sofa bed in the salon. Motor transport is suitable for family trips outside the city. Optics and mirrors Volkswagen Transporter T3 cope with their functions. Thanks to the high seating position, all passengers will be accommodated in comfort.

The lifting capacity depends on the model (may exceed 850 liters).

Thus, the salons are diverse. It seems possible to find an option with a lifting roof. At the same time, inside the car there may be a gas stove, a washbasin, a refrigerator, and a place for rest.

Engine and gearbox

Initially, an air-cooled motor was installed on vehicles, which is distinguished by a simple design and a long working life. In the early 1980s. appeared generation of cars with water cooling, which quickly warms up at startup, is less noisy in operation.

The car can be equipped with a turbodiesel and gasoline engine. The first version of the power plant is found on the Westfalia, Multivan Syncro, and the second on the Kombi, Caravelle Carat, Multivan models.

The turbocharged engine increases power. Cars Westfalia, Multivan Syncro develop the same power (70 horsepower). Average fuel consumption in the range of 10.5-13 liters. Similar power is provided by the two-liter gasoline engine on the Kombi model, but the fuel consumption exceeds 14 liters per 100 km.

The Caravelle Carat is equipped with a 2.1 liter power unit that develops power up to 95 hp. The Multivan model spends on average about 11.5 liters during travel, while the power is equal to 112 hp. The engine resource can exceed 300,000 km of run.

Minivan with 1.6 liter diesel engine. produces 50 horsepower. Its fuel tank capacity is 60 liters. A version of the Volkswagen Transporter T3 with a 1.7 liter power plant can also work on a diesel engine, the power of which reaches 57 hp.

Self-care of the engine and transmission may involve changing the fuel. Suitable for the motor is the use of a semi-synthetic oil that has a viscosity of 10W-40, for example, Total Quartz, Mannol Diesel Extra. Replacement frequency - 10,000 km. Under difficult operating conditions, the procedure is carried out earlier.

As a transmission, an automatic transmission is installed on the car, designed for 3 speeds, manual transmission (4 or 5 st.). "Mechanics" ensures efficient movement of Volkswagen regardless of the set speed limit. It is recommended to fill it with SAE 80W90 fluid of API GL4 class. Dextron ATF oil is used for automatic transmissions.

Chassis Transporter T3

The motor transport is equipped with a toothed steering rack, which has a decent margin of safety. In the early 1990s, the Carat version began to be equipped with a power steering, which greatly facilitates movement. All mechanisms related to the steering are distinguished by the quality of workmanship. Due to the fact that Volkswagen began to be equipped with a power steering system, maneuvers on the road began to be carried out easier and more efficiently.

The suspension provides an optimal level of cross-country ability on the roadway. The front axle includes double wishbones (triangular) with coil springs. On the rear axle there are slanting levers with springs. The suspension copes well with increased loads. Shock absorbers Volkswagen Transporter T3 with springs dampen vibrations, minimize vibration and shaking that occurs during the trip. The car behaves steadily on the road. The running gears installed on the foreign car provide decent running dynamics.

Disc mechanisms can be installed on the front axle, and drum mechanisms on the rear axle. They meet all safety standards and are highly durable.

Malfunctions

If you stick to an aggressive driving style, deformation of the pads or discs may occur, resulting in an increase in stopping distance. The surface of the brake elements must be free from corrosion, chips, etc. Hoses should be checked for leaks and integrity, if damaged, brake fluid will leak.

Sign up for a steering system diagnosis in the following cases:

• Stiffness of the steering wheel;
• After parking the car on the asphalt, oil smudges began to appear;
• Deterioration in handling;
• There were knocks at the front of the car.

As a rule, these symptoms indicate the presence of a broken steering rack, there may be torn anthers that must be replaced. Regular checking of the power steering system helps to reduce the risk of an emergency.

Despite the fact that the car has a standard factory anti-corrosion coating, over time, the car owner may encounter body corrosion at the welds.

The average resource of the Volkswagen Transporter T3 gearbox is 15,000,000 km. By this time, its main components wear out, as a result, the difficulty of switching speeds, jerks (noises) will be noted. Repair of the gearbox is necessary if oil starts to leak. Also, it is necessary to monitor the level of the filled fuel. Do not forget about the timely replacement of spark plugs and filters.

With prolonged use of the car, condensation or dullness may form inside the optics on the outside, which will interfere with the lighting. In this case, the headlight needs to be replaced.

Prices for Transporter T3

Owners are offered a choice of buying a car with rear-wheel drive, the average price of which is in the range of 150,000-300,000 rubles. Used, worn out cars are about 3-4 times cheaper. The price of a transport with front-wheel drive can exceed 500,000 rubles, and for exclusive models - 1 million rubles.

Thus, it is a maneuverable form of transport, on which working mechanisms are installed, of high quality performance. The suspension allows you to quickly bypass any unevenness in the road, creates optimal conditions for all passengers in the cabin. The car is characterized by high reliability. Late generations of the Volkswagen Transporter T3 could be equipped with an automatic transmission, an ABS system, and an air conditioner. It is suitable for family trips, groups of friends on vacation, for organizing excursions.

Video

The Transporter became the first minivan of the Volkswagen company. The first copy was released in 1950, the model is still being produced today (4th and 5th generation), as well as Volkswagen T2 parts. The first generation proved to be very successful, but in 1967 it was replaced by the Transporter T2. The car retains the main concept of the T1 in the field of chassis and design.

How to purchase spare parts Volkswagen T2

The salon in T2 was distinguished by great comfort, the rear suspension was improved in the car and a more powerful engine was installed. In a short time, the Volkswagen Transporter-2 has won the respect of these users. The main advantages of transport:

• Increased reliability, spare parts for T2 rarely needed to be purchased.
• Economical fuel consumption.
• Unpretentiousness even in harsh operating conditions.

The demand for the Volkswagen T2 was due to the fact that the model proved that its use is the most practical and profitable solution to transport problems. In 1979, production of the model in West Germany ceased. T2 was replaced by T3. But in Russian cities, many motorists continue to use them.

Since the production of the vehicle has been stopped, the owners of this model are interested in whether it is possible to purchase spare parts for the Volkswagen Transporter 2, as well as consumables. Over time, problems appear with the engine, suspension, bodywork, etc.

But although the model was no longer produced in West Germany since 1979, the T2 continued to be produced in Brazil. Kombi Standart and Kombi Furgao vehicles were produced in Brazilian factories until 2013. The models were improved, they had a more powerful engine. At the end of 2005, the car was restyled.

The Typ2 production was discontinued in 2013, despite the demand for the car. The reason - in Brazil, there was a requirement for a mandatory crash test. The old model was unable to pass it.

Owners of the Transporter-2 should not worry that in the event of a breakdown they will not be able to get the necessary Volkswagen T2 parts. Indeed, in this case, you will have to buy a new vehicle. Components continue to be produced, and you can buy them even in Moscow. In our online store "VWBUS", "native" auto parts are always available. Therefore, you should not buy non-original spare parts, which can lead to even greater problems.

You can purchase T2 parts that meet the requirements for reliability and durability. At the same time, they will be relatively inexpensive.

The first model range of the Volkswagen Transporter is the prototype of modern minibuses, family minivans and commercial vehicles. The new type of transport, designed in Germany, quickly gained its recognition thanks to:

• increased number of seats;
• the possibility of removing additional passenger seats.

The mass import of this transport to Russia began in 2002, so the most recognizable models are the Volkswagen Transporter T3. Modern modifications of minivans are well known throughout the post-Soviet space due to their use as a commercial (for the transportation of small loads), family cars and minibuses.

The history of the creation of the Volkswagen Transporter

The Dutchman Ben Pon can be considered the author of this invention. Visiting a manufacturing plant in Wolfsburg in 1947 and seeing a car platform, he soon offered his own sketches. Already in 1949, the car was presented at a conference, and less than a year later, in 1950, the serial production of the Volkswagen Transporter T1 began.

In the post-war years, for the revival of the country's economy, he became an indispensable worker, so the creators did not stop producing it, analogues of the Volkswagen Transporter appeared.

Volkswagen Transporter T1

Produced in 1950-1967. During this period, production was established in Brazil, where the first modification was produced until 1975 and was intended for the domestic market.

The Beetle model was taken for the supporting structure with numerous changes: the frame with the central tunnel was replaced by a body with a multi-link frame support. The transmission was taken from the VW Beetle, some components and appearance have undergone changes: the windshield is double, the door is sliding.

The first models were equipped with engines from the "Beetle" 25 hp. with., and the carrying capacity was 860 kg. In cars produced since 1954, they began to install power units with a capacity of 30-44 liters. with., which, with a slight modification of the design, made it possible to increase the permissible weight for transportation up to 930 kg.

Volkswagen Transporter T2

The first model was replaced by the Volkswagen Transporter T2, which was produced from 1967 to 1979. In the second model, much remains of its predecessor in terms of chassis and powertrain. The design was slightly changed: a one-piece windshield was installed, the cab became more ergonomic and spacious.

During the entire production time, the chassis was also modernized:

• Since 1968, a 2-circuit braking system has appeared.
• In 1970, brakes were installed on the front axle.
• 1972 - installed a V-1.7 l 66 hp power unit. with., which allowed the use of a 3-speed automatic transmission.
• 1975 - models are produced with engines W 50 and 70 HP. with. V-1.6 and 2 liters.

Volkswagen Transporter T3

Years of release - 1979-1992, after which the production of this model was established in South Africa. If the first 2 modifications have a lot in common, then T3 included a lot of new developments, the appearance was changed as much as possible:

• a steeper roof slope appeared;
• a black plastic radiator grill was used;
• the wheelbase has increased by 60 mm, the width - by 120 mm.

European manufacturers pay a lot of attention to the comfort of both the driver and passengers. Therefore, automation innovations were proposed:

• windows;
• adjustment of external mirrors;
• headlight cleaning;
• rear wipers;
• heated seats;
• air conditioning;
• central locking.

Four-wheel drive has been installed on the Volkswagen Transporter since 1985. A year later, the installation of an ABS system was offered for an additional fee.

Another version of the T3 appeared as the Transporter Syncro: the interior was completely VW-like, while the exterior was borrowed from a 1965 military van. The development of this model, which began in 1971, ended only in 1985, a permanent drive based on a viscous coupling, which is used in all modern cars, was installed in it.

The exterior and interior of the car have been improved, which has determined the division of models into business classes. This is the last modification with the engine still in the back.

Volkswagen Transporter T4

Years of production - 1990-2003. In 1991, they began to install motors with a volume of 1.8; 2.0; 2.5 liters. To increase the tractive power, diesel engines with a volume of 1.9 and 2.4 liters went into circulation. A year later, the installation of a 1.8 L carburetor engine was discontinued, it was replaced by 4- (1.9; 2.0 L) and 5-cylinder (2.4; 2.5 L) engines. By 1996, the power of the motors was increased:

• gasoline - 2.8 VR6;
• diesel - 2.5 TDI.

A color indicator system was even developed to indicate the power: at the end of the TDI marking, the letter I changed color, indicating:

• blue - 88 liters. with.;
• gray - 102 l. with.;
• red - 151 liters. with.

Body modifications also appeared:

1. The basic model is a closed cab with an open body.
2. Glazed back door, slamming shut.
3. The back door is hinged.
4. Cargo-passenger model with 2 x 2 seats + covered body.

The passenger version was produced in 2 modifications:

• Budget - Caravelle. There are 3 folding rows of seats, sliding doors. The rear seats are quick-detachable, allowing you to transform the body into a cargo compartment.
• Business - Multivan. 1 and 2 rows of rear seats are turned towards each other, between them a folding table. Seats 2 rows not only move, but also rotate around their axis. The highest quality plastic is used. There is a possibility of installing a refrigerator.
• Comfort - Vestfalia / California. It is a dwelling house on wheels. Equipped with a lifting roof, gas stove, refrigerator, wardrobes, dry closet, etc. There are several modifications in this series.

Against the background of economical fuel consumption (6-7 l / 100 km), the volume of the Volkswagen Transporter tank is 80 liters.

Volkswagen Transporter T5

Modern cars that are still being produced. Start of production - 2003. Technically, the model has been improved:

• Diesel engines are equipped with pump injectors.
• An exhaust gas afterburning system was developed, a turbocharger was installed, which increased the efficiency and degree of gas purification.
• 5 and 6-cylinder engines work with automatic transmission.
• In 2007 models, the wheelbase was increased to 5.29 meters.

Thanks to the new engine design and integrated neutralization catalysts, the T5 and all subsequent models comply with the EURO-5 emission standard for environmental friendliness.

Volkswagen Transporter T6

The interior has changed, in addition to the characteristic features of the shape, a chrome finish has appeared, the shape of small parts has changed, making them more ergonomic. But the most important advantage of the Volkswagen Transporter T6 is the automated system, which to a greater extent determines the comfort and, accordingly, the cost of the car.

The new models are no longer equipped with engines of 1.9 and 2.4 liters, they are successfully replaced by 2.0 liter units, which allows to reduce fuel consumption of Volkswagen Transporters (diesel corresponds to 84-180 hp, thanks to the turbocharging system, which increases efficiency). For motors 180 hp with. a double turbine is installed.

Throughout the entire production cycle, the developers strived to make the machine economical. Fuel consumption rates of the Volkswagen Transporter vary depending on the model and type of engine. For gasoline type with volume:

• 2.0 l 85 l. with. - 11.1 l / 100 km in the city and 8 l / 100 on the highway;
• 2.5 l 115 l. with. - 12.5 l / 100 km in the city and 7.8 l / 100 km on the highway;
• 2.8 l 140 (204) l. with. - 13.2 l / 100 km in the city and 8.5-9 l / 100 km on the highway.

While diesel models are more efficient and economical, modern modifications with a capacity of 140-180 hp. with. consume 7.7 l / 100 km in urban mode and 5.8 l / 100 km on the highway.

Conclusion

The design and weight distribution of the first car was very successful, which has been preserved in all subsequent modifications. The loading platform is located between the axles, the uniform weight distribution of the vehicle relative to the axles provides an equal load both with a loaded and empty vehicle.

On the basis of the Volkswagen Transporter 4 x 4, the following are manufactured:

• trucks with a covered cab and an open body;
• ambulances;
• fire brigade vehicles;
• vans;
• campers with imitation of household equipment;
• comfortable buses with seats for passengers from 9 pcs.

In fact, the Volkswagen Transporter with a body became the ancestor of commercial vehicles.

Video: The History of the Volkswagen Transporter - Documentary

What cars can you say without exaggeration that they are "cult"? Of course, about Volkswagen vans with a rear engine. In particular, about T3. Prices for well-groomed cars are rising, and it is becoming more and more difficult to restore running machines. Today you can find exclusive offers worth over 1,000,000 rubles! But you can find a good option for 150-200 thousand rubles.

Basic versions of the Volkswagen T3 worked on construction sites, served in the police and in the ambulance. Most of them were worn to death long before the model became a cult. Special versions of Caravelle and Multivan, even in rich Germany, could only be afforded by wealthy customers. And exclusive options could be seen near elegant villas or in the parking lots of luxury hotels.

The latter were more likely to maintain good shape than those who worked for someone else's good. When looking for a Volkswagen T3, you need to understand that the car is far from new. Therefore, do not be surprised by the abundant corrosion. It mainly affects the welded seams. Abundant lesions can also be found under the plastic pads. In addition, rust attacks the bottom edge of the window frames. And water, penetrating inside, destroys electrical equipment.

Thus, body repairs will be needed for sure. After restoration, it is necessary to additionally protect against corrosion. Experienced owners are advised to spray a penetrating anti-corrosion material into the body cavity. In some places, this will require drilling holes.

Another important element is sliding doors. If they move and the handle is not broken, then everything is very good. Body parts are readily available, but prices are starting to rise.

The front panel is very simple - nothing distracts the driver. It sits in front of the front axle, so maneuvering is an unusual experience compared to passenger cars.

Gaskets

Petrol versions (50-112 hp) are of the greatest interest to collectors. This is the last Volkswagen to be equipped with gasoline boxer engines. Until 1982, the engines were air-cooled, and after that they were liquid-cooled. The first ones turned out to be more reliable, although they suffered from oil leaks. It should be noted that in cars with air-cooled engines, the interior is never warm in winter.

Cars with liquid-cooled motors can be recognized by the additional radiator grille that appears just above the front bumper. Unfortunately, in units of this type, the cylinder head bolts often corroded, and the cylinder head gaskets burned out. In addition, the radiator is located at the front, and the "pipes" often leak. In the worst case, problems arose long before 100,000 km. Daily inspection of the cooling system is a must.

Reliable water-cooled 2.1-liter electronically-injected boxer. Consumption of 14-16 liters in the city is the norm, not the exception. With good care, it can stretch 250-300 thousand km. The rules are the same as for turbo engines: after loading, do not turn off immediately, but let it run for 1-2 minutes.

For serious purposes, it is better to consider options with diesel engines. They are good for long-distance routes, although they are much louder. By the way, diesels have the usual in-line arrangement of cylinders. Most of the offers on the market are with 1.7 D and 1.6 TD engines. Turbo diesel with a volume of 1.6 liters and a return of 70 hp. too weak. Moreover, it is not highly reliable. Chronic weakness is manifested by the cylinder head, and with age, the turbine turns out to be not in the best condition.

At one time, many owners installed 1.9 TD or even 1.9 TDI instead of these units. With such a source of traction, the Volkswagen T3 is more vigorous, more reliable, and burns almost the same amount of fuel. True, in order to introduce a 1.9-liter turbodiesel, some of the metal has to be cut out. The engine just doesn't fit. Some even installed engines from Subaru.

Undercarriage

The T3 has good handling and a surprisingly comfortable suspension. And the chassis itself seems to be eternal.

In order to place the engine aft, the engineers had to work on the rear suspension. To do this, they developed a shiny and ruinously expensive diagonal arm with spaced springs and shock absorbers. Front suspension is fully independent with springs and double wishbones. Rack and pinion steering.

On vacation

Will VW T3 allow you to comfortably spend time on a long trip? Quite if it turns out to be a version of Caravelle, or better yet, Caravelle Carat. Large and roomy interior, velor upholstery, improved sound insulation, six comfortable separate armchairs. At the rear, a water-cooled 2.1-liter boxer gurgles imperceptibly. When you press the gas pedal deeper, it sounds almost as beautiful as a Porsche 911 engine. Although this car definitely lacks temperament. But this unit is perhaps the fastest.

The Carat version is intended primarily for those who love good equipment. At the turn of the late 80s and early 90s, the minivan received power steering, air conditioning, power windows and an audio system. Simpler modifications could not boast of something like that.

The limited edition Multivan Whitestar Carat looks just as luxurious: twin headlights, alloy wheels and large plastic bumpers, painted in body color. Here the interior is more practical - it is equipped with a folding sofa bed and a coffee table. Such a car made it possible to save money on the hotel, and in the middle of the week it courageously solved everyday tasks.

Westfalia is for picnic outings. Inside you will find a gas oven, refrigerator and a folding roof with canvas walls. The model is easily recognizable by the superstructure on the roof. In addition to these modifications, versions were offered: Joker, California and Atlantica.

Another interesting option appeared in 1984 - Syncro. This is a minivan with four-wheel drive. Its vulnerable elements: viscous coupling and rear axle blocking. They required very costly repairs after 200,000 km.

Conclusion

The undoubted advantage of the Volkswagen T3 is its simple design. Any mechanic can repair it if necessary. Due to the fact that old "minibuses" rust faster than they wear out mechanically, there is a fairly rich assortment of used spare parts on the market.

Model history

1982, September - transition to 60 and 78 hp liquid-cooled gasoline engines.

1985, February - restyling. There was an all-wheel drive version of the Syncro and a 1.6-liter turbodiesel (70 hp). Gasoline unit 1.9 l / 90 HP replaced 2.1 l / 95 and 112 hp

1987 - ABS was offered as an option. A special version of the Magnum has appeared.

Volkswagen T3 was produced in the Austrian Graz. After completion of production, the model was assembled in South Africa until 2003.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Corrosion affects body welds and window frames.

Sticking sliding doors and broken handles.

Oil leaks from gasoline engines.

Fuel tank leaks.

Problems with the block head and its gasket in liquid-cooled gasoline units.

Broken pointers on the dashboard.

Difficulty shifting gears: grabs the bracket socket. It should be lubricated periodically.

The box often required repair after 100-200 thousand km.

Defective heating system: either cold or too hot.

In the long rods of the gear selection mechanism, a noticeable backlash occurs over time.

Specifications Volkswagen T3 (1979-1991)