Club 80-90 Forums

Hi folks, after a failed attempt to buy an air-cooled T25 me and my Dad, who's not a VW specialist but a lifer as a mechanic (now retired) have our eyes on a project. I've yet to buy the base.

I'm assuming the way to go is to put a newish, reconditioned diesel engine in for power and efficiency.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Or are the petrol Passat's the way to go?

Thanks
 

Welcome.

Good time for you to read the wiki, lots of buying tips and engine swap options in there.

2.1 is where you need to be, it’s a petrol. Easy upgrade swap from a 1.9.

If you buy a diesel, the swap is golf AGG engine, but you’ll need an exhaust, wiring loom and shortened sump, more complex build.

Buy a Caravelle, manual, 2.1L

Panel vans are cool, but they’ll be 1.9L generally as they’re commercial vehicles.

All just my opinions, but I’m on my 3rd T25, so have some experience.

Good Luck.