Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Volkswagen Caravelle (T4, facelift 1996) Long 2.4 D (78 Hp)
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 164 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.7 l/100km). With a weight of 1800 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 137 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
2.4 D (78 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A robust, if unrefined, engine. Performance is leisurely, best suited for those prioritizing reliability and economy over speed.
Fuel Economy
Good fuel economy for its size, making it a cost-effective workhorse. Simpler mechanics often lead to lower maintenance.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 4 discussions
Read What Owners Say
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): | 2.4 D (78 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1996 |
| End of production: | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Van |
| Seats: | 6-9 |
| Doors: | 4-5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 78 Hp @ 3700 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 32.9 Hp/l [134mm more] |
| Torque: | 164 Nm @ 1800-2200 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | AAB More details about the engine 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 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 95.5 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 22.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 9.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 11.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.3 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 137 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 23.1 kg/Hp, 43.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 11 kg/Nm, 91.1 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1800 |
| Max. weight: | 2700-2800 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 900-1000 |
| 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 of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| 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 |
Was the Volkswagen Caravelle what you expected? Let us know!