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Volkswagen

Volkswagen - Transporter (1997)

The 1997 Volkswagen Transporter – a decade‑old workhorse that still pulls the weight in today’s commercial fleet market. Even with its age, the thought of buying a Volkswagen Transporter 1997 price and wondering what is a 1997 Volkswagen Transporter worth is common among fleet managers and hobbyists alike. In this overview we’ll explore the key specs, how depreciation plays out over the years, what you can expect for a used Volkswagen Transporter price, and how this model stacks up against its peers.

Below is a detailed, dash‑ready snapshot of the 1997 Transporter, followed by deeper insights into value trends and market positioning.

  • Engine: 1.9 L I‑4 diesel (single‑cyl head) – 63 hp/120 Nm
  • Transmission: 5‑speed manual (standard) – optional 4‑speed automatic in some trims
  • Fuel type: Diesel (premium or unleaded, depending on market)
  • Torque: 120 Nm at 3 000 rpm – adequate for light to medium towing
  • Top speed: Approximately 125 km/h (78 mph)
  • Dimensions: Length: 4 640 mm / Width: 1 710 mm / Height: 1 660 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2 500 mm – contributes to a stable cabin feel
  • Payload: 800–950 kg depending on body‑style (standard van vs. pickup)
  • Seating: Fitted for 2‑9 passengers – variant dependent
  • Cargo Volume: 6–14 m³ – flexible for tools or cargo
  • Ride style: Semi‑rigid frame with a single‑wheel axle setup
  • Safety features: 3-point seat belt, front ABS (optional), rearview camera (later retrofit)
  • Origin: Volkswagen AG – German engineering, renowned for durability
  • Classification: Light commercial vehicle (LCV)
  • Notable variants: Vario, Quadra, and the extended Pullman M

All of the above data provide a baseline when you first open a vehicle’s door or browse a listing for a Volkswagen Transporter price. What remains next is understanding how the price changes as the vehicle ages—i.e. the Volkswagen Transporter depreciation curve, and how the 1997 model specifically holds its value.

Depreciation Insight – 1997 Volkswagen Transporter

While Volkswagen Transporter depreciation varies by market, condition, mileage, and body style, the following percentages are good rule‑of‑thumb figures for a 1997 Transports core to most European, North American, and Australian markets: