The VW Transporter T4 and T5 are two generations of Volkswagen's iconic vans, which have always been known for their reliability and practicality. The T4 and T5 have their own unique characteristics. Do you know the differences between these two models?
VW Transporter T4
| VW Transporter T4 | |
| Manufactured | Manufactured between 1990 and 2003, the T4 replaced the Type 2 or T3 model. It was the first Volkswagen van to have a water-cooled engine mounted at the front rather than at the rear. |
| Body Styles | The T4 was available in a variety of body styles, including vans, Kombis, Caravelle/Multivans, single and double cab pickups, and a "Razorback" tipper rear body. |
| Wheelbase and Roof Options | There are two wheelbase lengths, a short wheelbase with a wheelbase of 2920 mm and a long wheelbase with a wheelbase of 3320 mm. The van version is also available with a standard roof height of 1940 mm and a 'high roof' version with a height of 2430 mm. |
| Rear Door Style | The T4 features either dual side-opening 'barn doors' or a single roof-hinged tailgate. |
| Engine Options | The T4 is available with a wide range of engine options including 2.0, 2.5 and 2.8 VR6 petrol engines, 1.9 and five-cylinder 2.4 D non-turbo diesels, and turbo diesel options including the 1.9 indirect injection and 2.5 five-cylinder direct injection units. |
| VW Transporter T5 | |
| Manufactured | The T5 began production in 2003 and continued until it was replaced by the T6 in 2015. |
| Body Styles | Similar to the T4, the T5 is available in a variety of configurations including standard van, semi-van, high roof van, pickup, crew cab pickup, Kombis and a minibus called the Shuttle. |
| Design | The T5 features more modern styling and a 4-piece front grille, differentiating it from the T4. |
| Facelift T5.1 |
Launched in 2010, the T5.1 is a facelifted version of the T5 with a sleeker front end and a different shape, mainly featuring the headlights and hood shape. |
In summary, the main differences between the Volkswagen T4 and T5 are their design, engine options and available range of configurations. The T4, with its retro looks and multiple engine options, was a major step forward for Volkswagen in van design, while the T5 brings a more modern aesthetic and continues the tradition of versatility and adaptability in its body style and range of configurations.
The choice between the T4 and T5 is ultimately a personal choice based on the owner's personal preferences and the purpose of the car.