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Volkswagen1982 Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1982 |
| Production Years: | 1981 - 1992 discontinued in 1992 |
Precise measurements of the 1982 Volkswagen Caravelle, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4600 mm181.1 in15.1 ft |
| Width: | 1845 mm72.6 in6.1 ft |
| Height: | 1950 - 2020 mm76.8 - 79.5 in6.4 - 6.6 ft |
| Ground Clearance: | 190 - 218 mm7.5 - 8.6 in0.6 - 0.7 ft |
| Trunk Capacity: | 1700 liter60.0 cu ft |
| Trunk Capacity (Max): | 2930 liter103.5 cu ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 1480 - 1690 kg3263 - 3726 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 2360 - 2500 kg5203 - 5512 lbs |
| Roof Load: | 100 kg220 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Sizes: | 5.5J x 14, 6J x 14, 5.5J x 16 |
| Tire Sizes: | 185/80 R14 (W:185 | H:80 | D:14) 205/70 R14 (W:205 | H:70 | D:14) 195/80 R16 (W:195 | H:80 | D:16) 205/80 R16 (W:205 | H:80 | D:16) 205/80 R14 (W:205 | H:80 | D:14) |
The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3), produced between 1981 and 1992 with the 1982 model year marking one of its early versions, is a versatile van that blends classic design with practical dimensions. Measuring 4600 mm (181.1 inches) in length and 1845 mm (72.6 inches) in width, this van offers a substantial road presence without compromising maneuverability. Its height ranges from 1950 mm to 2020 mm (76.8 to 79.5 inches), providing ample headroom inside as well as considerable cargo volume.
The curb weight of the Caravelle (T3) spans from 1480 kg to 1690 kg (3262 to 3725 pounds), while its maximum allowable weight ranges between 2360 kg and 2500 kg (5209 to 5512 pounds), demonstrating its robust chassis and suspension capable of handling heavy loads. With a generous luggage capacity of 1700 liters (60 cubic feet) and an expanded volume of 2930 liters (103.5 cubic feet) when rear seats are folded, it stands out as an excellent choice for both commercial and personal use.
Ground clearance varies from 190 mm to 218 mm (7.5 to 8.6 inches), which aids in navigating a variety of terrains while maintaining stability and comfort. The roof load capacity is rated at 100 kg (220 lbs), allowing for additional storage options such as roof boxes or racks.
The Caravelle (T3) supports multiple rim sizes ranging from 5.5J x 14 up to 6J x 16 inches, with compatible tire sizes including 185/80 R14, 205/70 R14, 195/80 R16, 205/80 R16, and 205/80 R14. These tire and rim options provide flexibility for different driving requirements and terrain challenges.
Overall, the Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) from the early 1980s is a well-sized van that offers ample cargo space, comfortable ride height, and durable construction, making it a reliable and practical vehicle for transporting people and goods alike.
Discover the standout features that make the 1982 Volkswagen Caravelle a leader in its class
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The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) has an overall length of 4600 mm (181.1 inches), a width of 1845 mm (72.6 inches), and a height ranging from 1950 mm to 2020 mm (76.8 to 79.5 inches), depending on the specific version. These dimensions make it a sizable van designed to maximize interior space while maintaining manageable external proportions for its class and period.
The curb weight of the Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) ranges between 1480 kg and 1690 kg (3261 to 3724 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment level. The maximum permissible gross vehicle weight (GVW) ranges from 2360 kg to 2500 kg (5207 to 5512 lbs). This indicates that the vehicle is capable of carrying a substantial payload, including passengers and cargo, reflecting its utilitarian van design.
The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) provides a luggage capacity of approximately 1700 liters (60 cubic feet) with all rear seats in place, making it practical for family or group travel. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity increases significantly to about 2930 liters (103.5 cubic feet). This ample storage space is one of the key features of the Caravelle (T3), allowing it to function efficiently for both passenger transport and cargo.
The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) has a ride height or ground clearance ranging from 190 mm to 218 mm (7.5 to 8.6 inches). This moderate clearance level is suitable for van use, offering good road handling with enough height to manage urban and light off-road conditions without risking undercarriage damage under normal driving scenarios.
The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3), with its length of 4600 mm (181.1 inches), width of 1845 mm (72.6 inches), and height up to 2020 mm (79.5 inches), may be a tight fit in some standard home garages, especially considering modern garage door widths and ceiling heights. Typical single-car garages often have door widths around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) and ceiling heights approximately 2100 mm (82.7 inches). While width and length are manageable, the height near 2 meters means you should measure your garage clearance to ensure comfortable entry, especially with roof racks or additional accessories.
Compared to its predecessor, the Volkswagen T2, the Caravelle (T3) is generally more angular and slightly larger in dimensions. The T2 was shorter and narrower; typically, the T2's length was around 4505 mm (177.4 inches) and width about 1770 mm (69.7 inches), making the T3 longer by about 95 mm (3.7 inches) and wider by 75 mm (3 inches). The T3's increased height and boxier design translate to more interior volume and improved cargo capacity, reflecting an evolution aimed at greater functionality and comfort.
Dimensionally, the Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) is comparable to other mid-sized vans from the 1980s, such as the Ford Transit Mk2 and the Toyota Hiace of that period. While specific measurements may vary, the Caravelle’s length of 4600 mm places it slightly shorter than some Transit variants but wider than competitors like the Hiace. Its height is also competitive, allowing it to maintain a spacious interior without being excessively tall. The Caravelle's balance of size, weight, and cargo volume made it a strong competitor for both passenger and commercial applications.
The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) was commonly equipped with rims sized 5.5J x 14, 6J x 14, 5.5J x 14, and 6J x 16. The tire sizes corresponded accordingly and included 185/80 R14, 205/70 R14, 195/80 R16, 205/80 R16, and 205/80 R14. These variations allowed owners to select tires optimized for load capacity, road conditions, and ride comfort, supporting the versatile usage of the Caravelle as both a passenger and cargo van.
The roof load capacity of the Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) is rated at 100 kg (220 lbs). This means that any roof racks, cargo boxes, or additional equipment installed on the roof should not exceed this weight limit to avoid compromising vehicle stability or structural integrity. It's important to evenly distribute the load and ensure it is securely fastened to maintain safe handling, especially given the van’s relatively high center of gravity.
The Volkswagen Caravelle (T3) features a factory ride height or ground clearance between 190 mm and 218 mm (7.5 to 8.6 inches). While standard models had fixed suspension setups, some variants and aftermarket modifications allowed adjustments for load or terrain. The available clearance offered a good balance for urban driving and occasional light off-road use. However, the Caravelle was primarily designed for paved roads and light load conditions, and significant suspension modifications would be necessary for more extreme terrain adaptability.
