FAQ
TL;DR: “1.9 D burns about 8 l/100 km” [Elektroda, T5, post #9077806]; “1.9 TD is cheaper to use” [Elektroda, inginio, post #9077518] Pick 1.9 TD if you carry tools; choose 2.4 D only for heavier trailers.
Why it matters: Fuel, parts and downtime costs quickly outweigh the van’s purchase price.
Quick Facts
• 1.9 D / 1.9 TD: 6.5–8 l / 100 km in mixed driving [Elektroda, damians85, #9140047; T5, #9077806]
• 2.4 D: 7–8 l / 100 km; cam-shaft break reports [Elektroda, damians85, #9140047; T5, #9077806]
• Real-world top speed 1.9 D: 140 km/h unloaded [Elektroda, T5, post #9077806]
• Timing-belt kit (DIY): approx. €120 parts + €130 labour [Autodoc 2023]
• Gearbox for 1.9 TD costs ~€350 used; noted weak point [Elektroda, monter79, post #9077837]
Which VW T4 diesel is most economical for city electricians?
The 1.9 TD wins. Owners log 7–8 l / 100 km while hauling ladders and cables [Elektroda, damians85, post #9140047] It weighs less, uses one fewer cylinder, and glow-plug or timing jobs take half the time compared with 2.4 D [Elektroda, inginio, post #9077518]
How do the three engines compare on fuel consumption?
Owner averages: 1.9 D 8 l / 100 km, 1.9 TD 7–8 l, 2.4 D 7.8–8 l [Elektroda, damians85, #9140047; T5, #9077806]. The gap shrinks on highways but grows in stop-start work.
Is there a factory 1.9 TDI in a T4?
No standard 1.9 TDI was sold. Drivers confuse 1.9 TD with TDI. “Show me 1.9 TDI in this car” challenged one mechanic [Elektroda, T5, post #9077806]
Does a passenger-car 1.9 engine bolt into a T4?
The block fits, but accessories, sump and mounts differ. One swapper replaced dipstick tube, manifolds, and engine feet to succeed [Elektroda, damians85, post #9140047] Others warn it’s “a disservice” to claim drop-in fitment [Elektroda, trans-serwis, post #9085063]
3-step How-To: swapping a Golf/Seat 1.9 into a T4
- Remove T4 ancillaries: sump, brackets, manifolds.
- Transfer T4-specific parts to donor block; drill dipstick port if absent.
- Re-tilt engine 15° and refit with T4 mounts.
Follow with ECU or pump coding when turbo added. [Elektroda, damians85, post #9140047]
What common failures hit the 2.4 D?
Drivers report cracked heads after overheating and occasional cam-shaft breaks [Elektroda, T5, #9077806; qwertyuiop1000, #9085017]. Overheating often starts with a leaking oil-cooler radiator, flooding coolant with oil [Elektroda, kama723, post #9297812]
Is maintenance simpler on 1.9 engines?
Yes. Access is easier because of four cylinders. Glow-plug or timing-belt jobs take under 2 hours versus over 3 hours on 2.4 D [Elektroda, inginio, post #9077518] Parts are cheaper and shared with Golf/Audi lines [Elektroda, artur-55, post #9081573]
How fast can each engine cruise comfortably?
1.9 TD holds 100 km/h at 3,000 rpm; gearbox limits top speed more than power [Elektroda, monter79, post #9077837] 2.4 D reaches 110–120 km/h at the same revs and can touch 140 km/h empty [Elektroda, monter79, #9077837; T5, #9077806].
What about turbo life on 1.9 TD?
Turbochargers are the weak link. One courier replaced three units in five years despite gentle driving [Elektroda, hello1982, post #9089598] Regular 5,000 km oil changes and 30-second idle cooldowns extend life.
Which engine is better for towing an 800 kg boat?
Choose 2.4 D if you tow weekly; its extra 39 Nm torque improves hill starts [Elektroda, kkknc, post #9085479] For occasional towing, 1.9 TD suffices and saves fuel.
Does the pre-1996 T4 body really rust badly?
After 18 years any van shows rust. Look under windscreen and sliding-door step; fresh paint can hide rot [Elektroda, artur-55, post #10172046] Treat small blisters early to avoid yearly welding.
Are insurance and running costs higher for 2.4 D?
Yes. Five cylinders mean more oil (7 L vs 4.5 L) and a longer timing belt. Annual insurance can be 10 % higher due to larger displacement [PZU Tariff 2023].
What mileage can these engines realistically reach?
Well-maintained 2.4 D units exceed 700,000 km without rebuilds [Elektroda, 1970Kris, post #9447408] 1.9 TD can match this if its turbo survives; gearbox often needs replacement first [Elektroda, monter79, post #9077837]
Should I choose a Peugeot Expert instead?
T4 parts cost less and are easier to source. One owner says his T4 “beats the Frenchman above all” in durability and suspension strength [Elektroda, hello1982, post #9153099] Buy an Expert only if you need car-like ride and lower loading height.
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