Volkswagen Transporter (T4) Panel Van 1.9 TD (68 Hp) L1H1


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 1520 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 132 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) L1H1 Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

The turbo diesel offers a good balance of low-end torque and efficiency, making it a capable engine for the smaller L1H1 body.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy data is missing, but this engine is generally known for good efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice.

Best Use Case: Urban and suburban deliveries, light to medium loads, offering better drivability than naturally aspirated diesels.

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) L1H1
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 [405mm less]
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:132 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:22.4 kg/Hp, 44.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:10.9 kg/Nm, 92.1 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1520
Max. weight:2320-2700
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:800-1180
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:5400 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:4650 mm [405mm less]
Width:1840 mm [Same width.]
Height:1940 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2920 mm [400mm less]
Front track:1575 mm
Rear (Back) track:1540 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):180 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.7 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

Your first impression of the Volkswagen Transporter in one word? Go!