Tuning Volkswagen Transporter t3 - Fresh ideas for the classics of the automotive industry! The history of the development of the Volkswagen Transporter lineup Volkswagen Transporter T5 generation.

This Volkswagen T3 model is known in various markets under different names, including Transporter or Caravelle in Europe, Microbus in South Africa and Vanagon in the Americas or T25 in the United Kingdom.

VW T3 still had the Type2 index. But at the same time it was a different car. The wheelbase of the VW T3 has increased by 60 millimeters. The minibus has become 12.5 centimeters wider than the VW T2 and weighed 60 kilograms more (1365 kg) than its predecessor. The engine in it, as in earlier models, was located at the rear, which was already considered an outdated solution in the late 1970s, but it provided an ideal weight distribution of the car along the axes in the proportion of 50x50. A first for this vehicle class Volkswagen offers for T3 model as additional equipment power windows, electric door mirror adjustment, tachometer, central locking, heated seats, headlight cleaning system, rear wiper, retractable steps for sliding side doors, and since 1985 air conditioning and four-wheel drive.

Syncro/ Caravelle Carat/ Multivan

In 1985, several important events take place at once in the history of VW minibuses and the T3 model in particular:

Under the Transporter Syncro brand, an all-wheel drive Volkswagen was put into mass production, the development of which began back in 1971. The Austrian Pinzgauer military van, which had been produced by that time since 1965, was taken as the basis for its chassis. Therefore, the parts of the minibus were produced in Hannover, and the final assembly took place at Steyr Deimler Puig in Graz, Austria. It was a commercial vehicle with high performance even on bad roads. His new elastic clutches transmitted the engine's tractive effort to front axle considering the situation on the road. Permanent four-wheel drive is carried out through a visco-clutch. The design was distinguished by reliability and ease of operation, which ensured its long life on a variety of vehicles. produced by Volkswagen. It was a complete independent replacement for the intermediate differential, which automatically created an almost 100% blocking effect when needed. Later, Syncro receives a self-locking limited slip differential, which, together with other units, completely independent suspension and a 50/50 weight distribution along the axes, made the T3 Syncro one of the best all-wheel drive cars of its time. The Transporter Syncro has been acclaimed by off-road fans and has taken part in a large number of motor races around the world.

In 1985, VW T3 minibuses began to be equipped with air conditioning. In particular, it was installed on the luxury Caravelle Carat, a car focused on the level of comfort for business customers. Busik got understated ground clearance due to faster wheels with low profile tires, alloy wheels, folding table, illuminated footpegs, suede trim, hi-fi audio system, seat armrests. 180° rotating second row seats were also offered.

In the same year, the first generation VW Multivan was introduced - a version of the T3 for universal family use. The concept of "Multivan" (multi-purpose passenger car) blurs the line between business and leisure - this was the birth of a universal passenger minivan.

During the 1980s, US Army infantry and air force bases stationed in Germany used "te-thirds" as conventional (non-tactical) Vehicle. At the same time, the military used its nomenclature model designation - “light commercial truck / light truck, commercial”

Porsche has created a limited edition version of the VW T3 codenamed B32. The minibus was equipped with a 3.2-liter engine from the Porsche Carrera / Porsche Carrera and this version was originally designed to support the Porsche 959 in the Paris-Dakar / Paris-Dakar races.

Some versions for the North American market

The simplest versions of the US Vanagon had vinyl seat upholstery and a rather spartan interior. The Vanagon L already had fabric-wrapped seating, higher-quality interior trim, and optional air-conditioning in the dashboard. Vanagon GL was produced with a Westfalia roof and an extended list of options: a built-in kitchen and a folding bed. For regular versions with a high roof "Weekender", which did not have a gas stove, a stationary sink and a built-in refrigerator in the basic equipment as in full versions camper, a compact portable "cabinet" was offered, which included a 12-volt refrigerator and a stand-alone version of the sink. The Wolfsburg Edition of the "Weekender" version had rear-facing second-row seats and a drop-down table attached to the side wall. These pre-equipments were originally manufactured in Westfalia factories.

Production in South Africa

After 1991, production of the VW T3 continued in South Africa until 2002. For the local market in South Africa, VW renamed the T3 model to Microbus. Here she underwent a homologation - a slight "facelift", which included large windows in a circle (their size was increased compared to models made for other markets) and a slightly modified dashboard. The European wasserboxer engines were replaced with 5-cylinder engines from Audi and updated 4-cylinder engines from VW. Added 5-speed gearbox and 15" wheel disks standard on all versions. To more effectively match the onslaught of the 5-cylinder engine, large ventilated front disc brakes appeared. By the time the production of the model was completed, exclusive versions similar to the European Multivan with a second row of seats turned 180 degrees and a folding table appeared on sale.

Dates in the history of VW-T3

1979

Released new Volkswagen transporter. In addition to many technical improvements to the chassis and engine, he received a new body design. T3 was a revolution in car design: the computer partially "calculated" the frame under the body using the finite element method, and the car received increased rigidity. T3 failed to achieve phenomenal success at the start. This was due technical parameters car.

The horizontal four-cylinder air-cooled engine had a significant dead weight - 1385 kg. A smaller engine (1584 cc) would mean that it could hardly reach speeds in excess of 110 km/h. And even larger engine allowed to accelerate the car on the freeway only to a speed of 127 km / h: three kilometers per hour less than its predecessor. As a result, it was not easy at first to convince international customers of the benefits of the new technology. Only with the advent of the horizontal four-cylinder water-cooled engine and the diesel engine with the best performance and more power Volkswagen Transporter the third generation won success. The body width has increased by 125 mm, which made it possible to place three fully independent seats in the driver's cab; gauge and wheelbase became larger, and the turning radius decreased. The interior space has become more spacious and modern. Crash tests have helped in the development of elements that absorb energy from front and side impacts, the so-called crumple zones. A concealed roll bar was installed on the front of the driver's cab at knee level, and strong sectional profiles were integrated into the doors to provide side impact protection.

1981

25th anniversary of the Volkswagen plant in Hannover. Since the factory opened, more than five million commercial vehicles have rolled off assembly lines. Horizontal four-cylinder water-cooled engine and modified diesel engine The Golf provided the necessary breakthrough for the Transporter. It is very likely that at that time the specialists in Hannover had absolutely no idea that the diesel engine had opened absolutely new page in the Volkswagen success story.

Production of diesel-powered Volkswagen Transporters began at the Hannover plant.

Volkswagen Transporter received horizontal four-cylinder water-cooled engines new design 60 and 78 hp to replace previous generations of air-cooled engines.

1983

Presentation of the Caravelle model - a minivan designed as a "passenger luxury". The Bully was a versatile, versatile vehicle that provided the ideal platform for limitless options – an everyday family car, a great travel companion, offering living space on wheels and freedom of movement.

1985

Launch of serial production of all-wheel drive Volkswagen under the Transporter Syncro brand, Caravelle Carat modifications and the first VW Multivan appear.

A turbocharged diesel engine enters production and new engine with high power fuel injection (112 hp).

In July, the annual general meeting approves the company's name change to "Volkswagen AG".

1986

It became possible to install ABS.

1988

Launch of mass production of the Volkswagen California travel van. The Volkswagen plant in Braunschweig, Germany, celebrated its 50th anniversary.

1990

The production of T3 at the plant in Hannover is stopped. In 1992, production was also stopped at a plant in Austria. Thus, since 1993, the T3 has been finally replaced in the European and North American market by the T4 model (Eurovan in the US market). By that time, the T3 remained the last rear-engined Volkswagen car in Europe, so true connoisseurs consider T3 as the last "real Bull". Starting in 1992, production was transferred to a plant in South Africa, which, having slightly changed the design and equipment, produced the T3 for the local market. Production continued until the summer of 2003.

In 2009, the 30th anniversary of T3 was celebrated.

The Volkswagen Museum (Wolfsburg) held a thematic exhibition dedicated to the T3.

Other exhibits of the exhibition:

What cars can you say without exaggeration that they are "cult"? Of course, about Volkswagen vans with a rear engine. In particular, about T3. Prices for well-maintained specimens are rising, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to restore running cars. Today you can find exclusive offers worth over 1,000,000 rubles! But you can find a good option for 150-200 thousand rubles.

The basic versions of the Volkswagen T3 worked at construction sites, served in the police and in the ambulance. Most of them were beaten to death long before the model had a cult following. Special versions of the Caravelle and Multivan, even in wealthy Germany, could only be afforded by wealthy buyers. And exclusive options could be seen near elegant villas or in the parking lots of luxury hotels.

The latter were more likely to keep a good shape than those who worked for someone else's benefit. When looking for a Volkswagen T3, you need to understand that the car is far from new. Therefore, do not be surprised by abundant corrosion. It affects mainly welds. Abundant foci can also be found under plastic overlays. In addition, rust attacks the bottom edge of window frames. And water, penetrating inside, destroys electrical equipment.

Thus, body repair will be needed for sure. After restoration, it is necessary to additionally protect against corrosion. Experienced owners advise spraying a penetrating anti-corrosion material into the body cavity. In some places, you will have to drill holes for this.

Another important element is sliding doors. If they move, and the handle is not broken, then everything is very good. Body parts are readily available, but prices are starting to rise.

The front panel is very simple - nothing distracts the driver. It sits in front of the front axle, so maneuvering is an unusual experience compared to passenger cars.

Gaskets

Petrol versions (50-112 hp) are of the greatest interest to collectors. This is the last Volkswagen equipped with gasoline boxer motors. Until 1982, the engines were air-cooled, and after - liquid. The first ones turned out to be more reliable, although they suffered from oil leaks. It is worth noting that in cars with air-cooled engines, it is never warm in the cabin in winter.

Cars with liquid-cooled engines can be recognized by the additional grille that appeared right above the front bumper. Unfortunately, in units of this type, the cylinder head bolts often corroded, and the cylinder head gaskets burned out. In addition, the radiator is located in front, and the "pipes" often leak. IN worst case problems arose long before 100,000 km. Daily inspection of the cooling system is a mandatory ritual.

Reliable 2.1-liter boxer with electronic injection and water cooling. Consumption of 14-16 liters in the city is the norm, not the exception. With good care, he is able to stretch 250-300 thousand km. The rules are the same as for turbo engines: after loading, do not turn off immediately, but let it run for 1-2 minutes.

For serious purposes, it is better to consider options with diesel engines. They are well suited for overcoming long-distance routes, although they work much louder. By the way, diesels have the usual in-line arrangement of cylinders. The market has the most offers with 1.7 D and 1.6 TD engines. Turbodiesel with a volume of 1.6 liters and a return of 70 hp. too weak. In addition, it is not very reliable. Chronic weakness is shown by the cylinder head, and with age not in best condition turns out to be a turbine.

At one time, many owners installed 1.9 TD or even 1.9 TDI instead of these units. With such a power source, the Volkswagen T3 is bouncier, more reliable, and burns almost the same amount of fuel. True, in order to introduce a 1.9-liter turbodiesel, you have to cut out part of the metal. The engine just won't fit. Some even installed engines from Subaru.

Chassis

The T3 has a surprisingly comfortable suspension with good handling. And the chassis itself seems eternal.

In order to place the engine in the stern, the engineers had to work on rear suspension. To do this, they developed a shiny and outrageously expensive diagonal arm with spaced springs and dampers. The front suspension is fully independent with coil springs and double wishbones. Steering rack type.

On vacation

Will the VW T3 allow you to comfortably spend time in long trip? Quite if it turns out to be a version of Caravelle or even better Caravelle Carat. Large and roomy interior, velor upholstery, improved sound insulation, six comfortable separate seats. At the back, a 2.1-liter water-cooled boxer gurgles imperceptibly. With a deeper press on the gas pedal, it sounds almost as beautiful as Porsche engine 911. Although this car definitely lacks temperament. But this unit is perhaps the fastest.

The Carat version is intended primarily for lovers of good equipment. At the turn of the late 80s and early 90s, the minivan received power steering, air conditioning, power windows and an audio system. More simple modifications could not boast of something like this.

The limited edition Multivan Whitestar Carat looks no less luxurious: twin headlights, alloy wheels and large body-coloured plastic bumpers. Here the interior is more practical - equipped with a folding sofa bed and a coffee table. Such a car made it possible to save money on a hotel, and in the middle of the week courageously solved everyday tasks.

Westfalia is designed for picnic trips. Inside there is a gas oven, a refrigerator and a folding roof with canvas walls. The model is easily recognizable by the superstructure on the roof. In addition to these modifications, versions were offered: Joker, California and Atlantica.

Another interesting option appeared in 1984 - Syncro. This is an all-wheel drive minivan. Its vulnerable elements: viscous coupling and blocking rear axle. They required very costly repairs after 200,000 km.

Conclusion

The undoubted advantage of the Volkswagen T3 is its simple design. If necessary, any mechanic can repair it. Due to the fact that old "vans" rust faster than they wear out mechanically, there is a fairly rich assortment of used spare parts on the market.

Model History

1982, September - transition to gasoline engines liquid-cooled 60 and 78 hp

1985, February - restyling. There was an all-wheel drive version of Syncro and a 1.6-liter turbodiesel (70 hp). Petrol unit 1.9 l / 90 hp changed 2.1 l / 95 and 112 hp

1987 - ABS was offered as an option. There was a special version of Magnum.

Volkswagen T3 was produced in Graz, Austria. After production was completed, the model was assembled in South Africa until 2003.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Corrosion attacks body welds and window frames.

Jamming sliding doors and broken handles.

Oil leaks from gasoline engines.

Fuel tank leaks.

Problems with the block head and its gasket in petrol units liquid cooled.

Inoperative indicators on the dashboard.

Difficulties with the inclusion of gears: grabs the bracket socket. It should be lubricated periodically.

The box often required repair after 100-200 thousand km.

Faulty heating system: either cold or too hot.

In the long rods of the gear selection mechanism, a noticeable play develops over time.

Specifications Volkswagen T3 (1979-1991)

Version		Caravelle Carat	Multivan	Westfalia	Multivan Syncro
Engine
				turbodis	turbodis
Cylinders / valves / camshafts
Timing drive	gears	gears	gears
Working volume
Power
Torque
Dynamics
Max speed
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
Average fuel consumption, l/100 km

Tuning Volkswagen Transporter T3 is an opportunity to create a unique version of the legendary minibus, which is known to motorists around the world. The car has a discreet and truly folk design, which allows various tuners to completely remake it to fit their style or carry out a classic upgrade of the body, interior and other components.

1

Model shown, along with hatchback Volkswagen Golf 2 is one of the most mass-produced production versions of Volkswagen. The car has been produced since 1979, when the updated T3 conveyor with a four-cylinder gasoline engine, reinforced suspension and a rigid frame structure first rolled off the assembly line. Over the years, the engineers of the German concern improved this car and supplemented it with new body parts, technical parts, and interior. Known and all-wheel drive models T3, and passenger Caravelle, Multivan, California.

Volkswagen Transporter t3

And few of these cars remain in good condition, so tuning a Transporter T3 is often a voluminous job. It starts with a rework of the body (removal of rust, painting, replacement of wings, doors) and ends with a serious technical modernization of the engine and various components of the car. Further in the article we will consider options for modernizing the body and interior of this model, we will talk about technical options improvements and the possibility of software upgrades (on models after 1987 release).

If speak about external changes, then for the T3 model of any model year, you can find interesting accessories of original or third-party production that can significantly increase the attractiveness, modernize and refresh this legendary car. Among these accessories are:

new bumpers and pads on them;
sets of aerodynamic body kits;
thresholds and tuning options for radiator grilles;
spoilers on the front bumper or trunk lid;
modern front and rear optics;
hood deflectors, doors, various cilia on the headlights.

In addition to the presented accessories, those who remake the Volkswagen Transporter T3 model are in demand for complete or partial painting of the car, installation of wheel arch extensions, body airbrushing, installation, rims bigger size, new door handles "under the classics", tinted. Modernization is often subjected to the suspension of the car and elements of the engine system, as well as the unit itself.

2

There are many options for upgrading the interior, each of those wishing to carry out tuning chooses based on the budget and the desired comfort. But the main criterion is to increase safety and comfort. To achieve this, it is not necessary to completely redo any elements, you can only change the main parts, for example, install a new steering wheel. For this model of car, the steering wheel from the Passat B3 model is almost ideal, which can be purchased at dismantling sites for no more than 2000 rubles.

Salon Volkswagen Transporter t3 after modernization

To install it, you only need a special adapter sleeve when connecting the steering wheel to the column, which, as a rule, is sold there or in specialized stores. The steering wheel becomes standard mounts, while you can additionally connect a hydraulic booster (for models before 1983 that were not equipped with such an option).

In addition, you can choose new seats and connect heating or electric adjustment. Considering that the Volkswagen T3 is a "purebred" German with a small base, seats from various models are suitable for this model. passenger cars, such as Volkswagen Passat, Mercedes W124, BMW 5 Series. Installing new seats will not take much time, while the comfort in the car will increase significantly. At the same time, you can also replace door cards, leather options will look especially interesting.

In addition to the above, you can improve the interior of the T3 with options such as:

installation of chrome inserts on the dashboard;
installation of driver and passenger footwell lighting,
high-quality sound insulation of the cabin.

All these changes will improve the comfort of the car, especially with regard to sound insulation. Due to its age, the car is very noisy on rough roads, both in the cargo and passenger versions, as evidenced by the numerous reviews of the owners.

3

IN technical equipment The Transporter T3 noticeably loses to all modern models, various suspension units wear out over time, and the motor requires constant intervention. Competent suspension tuning begins with the installation of a new set of shock absorbers on both sides. In addition, it is better to replace all brake system in a circle, instead of standard drum brakes, install disc options with a complete replacement of units. As a "donor" you can use spare parts from various models, especially the BMW 5 series in the E34 body.

Volkswagen Transporter t3 after tuning

Stabilizer struts, bearings, bushings, silent blocks are also being replaced. Some options involve overstating the body using special lift kits that are sold in huge quantities. Such a procedure will be effective with constant off-road driving, in urban conditions it will be enough standard replacement suspension and chassis elements to more modern counterparts, with all connections and connections.

Improvements to the technical part include reworking or complete replacement exhaust system, especially on diesel versions engines 1.6 D.

There are a lot of options for changes, given the age of these cars, from complete replacement before the partial modernization of the motor. As a simple do-it-yourself solution for diesel engines with or without a turbine, we advise you to manually cut off part of the manifold (you will have to use welding), or replace the resonator with a smaller part. The easiest option is to install an accessory in the form of a lining on the muffler. In technical terms, this will not give anything, but coupled with changes appearance will look organic. Sometimes it is advisable to sort out the gearbox, change the oil. Consider putting on T3 PPC from models Vito or newer versions Transporter.

4

As for the engine, best solution cylinder bore will become (relevant for all versions Motor Transporter T3), but this will require the intervention of specialists. For some models, a chip tuning option is available, in which the factory ECU settings are reset and various parameters are calibrated. With the right approach, a small increase in power is guaranteed, while the engine will be "fresh" and fuel consumption will decrease.

Volkswagen Transporter t3 engine before tuning

For diesel (1.9TDI), even without a chip tuning procedure, it is important to turn off the EGR (gas regeneration) system, which, in the general solenoid valve system, along with a vacuum pump, does not add power and, as practice shows, only creates additional problems. To do this, you need to purchase special plugs. They can be picked up from the original Volksvagen manufacturer by the number on the valve itself, or you can make them yourself. A plate in the form of an inlet valve with a thickness of 3 mm and a special paronite gasket are sufficient.

It is necessary to muffle the USR using the program and mechanically. Remove the manifold and clean it of soot. Next, calibrate the ignition and injection parameters on the computer (using the VAGCOM program or other analogues). Such changes will increase engine power and speed during acceleration, however, with a sharply pressed gas pedal, the flow rate will increase by 0.5-1 liter. In addition to the APC plug, the air flow valve can also be disabled, thus modernizing the operation of the turbine on T3, but also increasing the flow rate.

VW T3 still had the Type2 index. But at the same time it was a different car. The wheelbase of the VW T3 has increased by 60 millimeters. The minibus has become 12.5 centimeters wider than the VW T2 and weighed 60 kilograms more (1365 kg) than its predecessor. The engine in it, as in earlier models, was located at the rear, which was already considered an outdated solution in the late 1970s, but it provided an ideal weight distribution of the car along the axes in the proportion of 50x50. For the first time in this class of vehicle, Volkswagen offers power windows, electric door mirror adjustment, tachometer, central locking, heated seats, headlight cleaning, rear wiper, retractable steps for sliding side doors, and starting since 1985 air conditioning and four-wheel drive.

Syncro/ Caravelle Carat/ Multivan

In 1985, several important events take place at once in the history of VW minibuses and the T3 model in particular:

Under the Transporter Syncro brand, an all-wheel drive Volkswagen was put into mass production, the development of which began back in 1971. The Austrian Pinzgauer military van, which had been produced by that time since 1965, was taken as the basis for its chassis. Therefore, the parts of the minibus were produced in Hannover, and the final assembly took place at Steyr Deimler Puig in Graz, Austria. It was a commercial vehicle with high performance even on bad roads. Its new elastic clutches transferred engine power to the front axle, taking into account the situation on the road. Permanent four-wheel drive is carried out through a visco-clutch. The design was reliable and easy to operate, which ensured its long life on a variety of Volkswagen vehicles. It was a complete independent replacement for the intermediate differential, which automatically created an almost 100% blocking effect when needed. Syncro later received a self-locking limited slip differential, which, together with other units, a fully independent suspension and a 50/50 weight distribution along the axles, made the T3 Syncro one of the best all-wheel drive cars of its time. The Transporter Syncro has been acclaimed by off-road fans and has taken part in a large number of motor races around the world.

In 1985, VW T3 minibuses began to be equipped with air conditioning. In particular, it was installed on the luxury Caravelle Carat, a car focused on the level of comfort for business customers. The busik received a lower ground clearance due to faster wheels with low-profile tires, alloy wheels, a folding table, footrest lighting, suede trim, a hi-fi audio system, and seat armrests. 180° rotating second row seats were also offered.

In the same year, the first generation VW Multivan was introduced - a version of the T3 for universal family use. The concept of the "Multivan" (multi-purpose passenger car) blurs the line between business and leisure - this was the birth of the versatile passenger minivan.

During the 1980s, US Army infantry and air force bases stationed in Germany used te-thirds as conventional (non-tactical) vehicles. At the same time, the military used its nomenclature model designation - “light commercial truck / light truck, commercial”

Some versions for the North American market

The simplest versions of the US Vanagon had vinyl seat upholstery and a rather spartan interior. The Vanagon L already had fabric-wrapped seating, higher-quality interior trim, and optional air-conditioning in the dashboard. Vanagon GL was produced with a Westfalia roof and an extended list of options: a built-in kitchen and a folding bed. For the regular high-roof "Weekender" versions, which did not have a gas stove, a stationary sink and a built-in refrigerator in the basic equipment of the full camper versions, a compact portable "cabinet" was offered, which included a 12-volt refrigerator and a stand-alone version of the sink. "Weekender" versions featured rear-facing second-row seats and a fold-down table attached to the side wall.These pre-equipments were originally built in Westfalia's factories.

Production in South Africa

After 1991, production of the VW T3 continued in South Africa until 2002. For the local market in South Africa, VW renamed the T3 model to Microbus. Here she received a homologation - a slight "facelift", which included large windows in a circle (their size was increased compared to models made for other markets) and a slightly modified dashboard. The European wasserboxer engines were replaced with 5-cylinder engines from Audi and updated 4-cylinder engines from VW. A 5-speed gearbox and 15" wheels were added as standard on all versions. Large ventilated front disc brakes appeared to better match the onslaught of the 5-cylinder engine. By the time the model was completed, exclusive versions similar to the European Multivan with a second row of seats were on sale turned 180 degrees and a folding table.

Dates in the history of VW-T3

1979

The new Volkswagen Transporter has been released. In addition to many technical improvements to the chassis and engine, he received a new body design. T3 was a revolution in car design: the computer partially "calculated" the frame under the body using the finite element method, and the car received increased rigidity. T3 failed to achieve phenomenal success at the start. This was due to the technical parameters of the car.

The horizontal four-cylinder air-cooled engine had a significant dead weight - 1385 kg. A smaller engine (1584 cc) would mean that it could hardly reach speeds in excess of 110 km/h. And even the bigger engine allowed the car to accelerate on the motorway only to a speed of 127 km / h: three kilometers per hour less than its predecessor. As a result, it was not easy at first to convince international customers of the benefits of the new technology. It was only with the advent of a horizontal four-cylinder water-cooled engine and a diesel engine with better performance and more power that the third generation Volkswagen Transporter achieved success. The body width has increased by 125 mm, which made it possible to place three fully independent seats in the driver's cab; the track and wheelbase became longer, and the turning radius decreased. The interior space has become more spacious and modern. Crash tests have helped in the development of elements that absorb energy from front and side impacts, the so-called crumple zones. A concealed roll bar was installed on the front of the driver's cab at knee level, and strong sectional profiles were integrated into the doors to provide side impact protection.

1981

25th anniversary of the Volkswagen plant in Hannover. Since the factory opened, more than five million commercial vehicles have rolled off assembly lines. A water-cooled horizontal four-cylinder engine and a modified Golf diesel engine gave the Transporter the breakthrough it needed. It is very likely that at that time the experts in Hannover were completely unaware that the diesel engine opened a completely new page in the Volkswagen success story.

Production of diesel-powered Volkswagen Transporters began at the Hannover plant.

Volkswagen Transporter received horizontal four-cylinder water-cooled engines of a new design with a capacity of 60 and 78 hp. to replace previous generations of air-cooled engines.

1983

1985

Launch of serial production of all-wheel drive Volkswagen under the Transporter Syncro brand, Caravelle Carat modifications and the first VW Multivan appear.

A turbocharged diesel engine and a new high-power fuel-injected engine (112 hp) enter production.

In July, the annual general meeting approves the company's name change to "Volkswagen AG".

1986

It became possible to install ABS.

1988

Launch of mass production of the Volkswagen California travel van. The Volkswagen plant in Braunschweig, Germany, celebrated its 50th anniversary.

1990

The production of T3 at the plant in Hannover is stopped. In 1992, production was also stopped at a plant in Austria. Thus, since 1993, the T3 has been finally replaced in the European and North American market by the T4 model (Eurovan in the US market). By that time, the T3 was the last rear-engined Volkswagen car in Europe, so true connoisseurs regard the T3 as the last "real Bull". Starting in 1992, production was transferred to a plant in South Africa, which, having slightly changed the design and equipment, produced the T3 for the local market. Production continued until the summer of 2003.

In 2009, the 30th anniversary of T3 was celebrated.

The Volkswagen Museum (Wolfsburg) held a thematic exhibition dedicated to the T3.

Other exhibits of the exhibition:

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