Volkswagen Transporter (T4, facelift 1996) Kombi 2.4 D (78 Hp) L2H1


Overall Rating

7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 2.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 2.5 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 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, facelift 1996) Kombi Overview:

Volkswagen Transporter ((T4, facelift 1996) Kombi). With 164 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~10.1 l/100km). With a weight of 1705 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. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.4 D (78 Hp) L2H1 Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The 2.4 D provides a solid, if not exciting, performance for the L2H1 body. It's a reliable workhorse, capable of handling loads without feeling completely overwhelmed.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is respectable for a naturally aspirated diesel in this configuration, offering a good compromise between power and running costs for regular use.

Best Use Case: Work Van / Family Hauler

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional reliability and durability, known for high mileage.
  • • Highly versatile interior, easily configurable for cargo or passengers.
  • • Strong aftermarket support and community.
  • • Timeless, practical design.
  • • Good fuel tank capacity for long journeys.

Cons:

  • • Engines, especially the diesels, can feel underpowered by modern standards.
  • • Basic safety features compared to contemporary vehicles.
  • • Fuel economy, particularly for petrol variants, can be high.
  • • Road noise and refinement are typical of a commercial vehicle.
  • • Rust can be an issue on older, neglected examples.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation((T4) Panel Van: 1992 - 1995).

General:
Brand:Volkswagen
Model:Transporter
Generation:(T4, facelift 1996) Kombi
Modification (Engine):2.4 D (78 Hp) L2H1
Start of production:1996
End of production:1998
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Van
Seats:2-9
Doors:4-5
Engine:
Power:78 Hp @ 3700 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:32.9 Hp/l [52mm more]
Torque:164 Nm @ 1800-2500 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
Piston Stroke:95.5 mm
Compression ratio:22.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:10.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.2 l/100 km
Maximum speed:137 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:21.9 kg/Hp, 45.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:10.4 kg/Nm, 96.2 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1705
Max. weight:2700-2800
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:995-1095
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:5107 mm [52mm more]
Width:1840 mm [Same width.]
Height:1940 mm [460mm less]
Wheelbase:3320 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:2175 mm
Front track:1589 mm
Rear (Back) track:1554 mm
Front overhang:886 mm
Rear overhang:901 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 [above average]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/70 R15; 205/65 R15
Wheel rims size6J x 15
Front suspensionIndependent torsion bar, double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer
Rear suspensionIndependent coil spring, Trailing arm

Behind the wheel of the Volkswagen Transporter. How does it handle on the road?