Volkswagen Transporter 1990–2004 car dimensions: 4707 mm long, 1840 mm wide and 1940 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,565 kg. Braked towing is 2,000 kg.
The cabin is straightforward and work-focused with basic heating as standard. Air conditioning comes as an option in manual form or as Climatronic automatic control for the cab and passenger area on higher setups. Cruise control is an available option operated via the indicator stalk. No advanced electronic driver aids appear in the equipment lists for this generation.
Load volume reaches 5400 litres on short-wheelbase models with seats folded or removed, rising to 6300 litres on long-wheelbase standard roof and 7800 litres with high roof. The low load floor and near-vertical sides suit bulky items, with modest wheelarch intrusion.
Nominal payloads sit in the 800 to 1200 kg classes depending on wheelbase and configuration, with actual figures often near 900 to 1000 kg once fuel and driver are accounted for. Reinforced suspension options support the higher payload variants. Braked towing capacity is 2000 kg and unbraked 700 kg across typical models, making it suitable for light trailers in daily work use.
The cabin feels car-like with supportive seats that adjust for height, reach, rake and lumbar support. Entry is easy via a low step and flat floor. Controls sit clearly laid out. Materials stay practical and simple to clean. Passenger versions offer good space and variability with optional turning front seats.
Fuel tank holds 80 litres.
Oil and filter change every 10,000 km or 15,000 km or 1 year by engine and year.
ABS available as option from early production. standard later on higher grades.
Driver and passenger airbags available from 1995. standard on Caravelle and Multivan from 1996.
Independent suspension all round.
Engines run on petrol or diesel across a range of sizes. The tank holds 80 litres for decent range on mixed use.
Service the oil and filter at the stated interval for the engine code and year. Change the cambelt and water pump together at the recommended mileage or time. Later models show service needs on the dash display.
Safety kit starts basic. ABS and dual front airbags arrive as options then become more common. Three-point belts and head restraints cover the seats. Handling stays stable thanks to the independent setup.
The body uses galvanised steel for long life. Keep on top of rust checks on early short-nose examples and stick to regular fluid changes to keep it reliable.
Length 4707 mm, Width 1840 mm, Height 1940 mm, Wheelbase 2920 mm (Transporter 1990–2004)
Sources: manufacturer data, Wikipedia and vandimensions.com, automoli.com and vehiclesizes.com.