The Volkswagen AR is a 1,588 cc, air‑cooled, flat‑four petrol engine produced between 1974 and 1983. It features a horizontally opposed cylinder layout with pushrod-actuated valves and a single downdraft carburettor. This engine was the final evolution of Volkswagen's air-cooled lineage, designed for dependable, simple transportation in the Type 2 (T2b) Bus and Pickup.
Fitted exclusively to the Type 2 (T2b) Transporter, the AR was engineered for low-RPM torque and ease of maintenance in commercial and passenger applications. It prioritised durability and serviceability over outright performance. Emissions compliance for later models was managed through modified ignition timing and carburettor jetting, meeting basic national standards of the era.
One documented service concern is oil cooler seal failure, which can lead to external leaks and reduced cooling efficiency. This issue, addressed in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 901.01.02, is often due to age-related hardening of the gasket material. Later service kits incorporated improved sealing compounds.
Volkswagen
Production years 1974–1983 meet applicable national emissions standards for their respective markets (VCA UK Type Approval historical records).
The Volkswagen AR is a 1,588 cc air-cooled flat-four petrol engine engineered for the Type 2 Transporter (1974-1983). It combines a simple pushrod valvetrain with a single carburettor to deliver robust, low-maintenance performance. Designed for the final years of air-cooled production, it balances vintage character with improved reliability over its predecessors.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,588 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Flat‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.5 mm × 69.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Solex 34 PICT-3) | |
| Emissions standard | National standards (pre-Euro) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 30 or 10W-40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 100 kg |
The flat-four, air-cooled design offers a unique, torquey character ideal for load-carrying but requires diligent cooling system maintenance. Regular valve adjustments (every 3,000 miles) and oil changes are critical for longevity. The low 7.5:1 compression ratio allows use of low-octane fuel but limits peak power. Oil cooler seal failure is a known age-related issue; replacement with the updated gasket per Service Bulletin 901.01.02 is recommended during engine service.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral-based SAE 30 or 10W-40 oil (Volkswagen Service Schedule 1980). Modern synthetics not recommended.
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards; complied with national regulations of production era (VCA Historical Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Volkswagen Group PT-1980).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA/ELSA): Docs 044 100 001, VW 111
UK Vehicle Certification Agency Historical Records
Volkswagen Service Bulletin 901.01.02
The Volkswagen AR was used exclusively in Volkswagen's Type 2 (T2b) platform with rear, longitudinal mounting. This engine was the final air-cooled variant for the Transporter, featuring minor carburettor and ignition updates during its production run. No major mechanical revisions occurred, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the crankcase, just below the generator/alternator stand (Volkswagen Workshop Manual VW 111). Visually, the AR is identified by its air-cooled design with prominent cooling fins, a single Solex 34 PICT-3 carburettor, and a distinctive “doghouse” oil cooler shroud. Critical differentiation from earlier 1600cc engines (e.g., AS, AH): The AR has a specific distributor (0231 170 034) and carburettor jetting for emissions compliance. Engine cases are generally interchangeable, but carburettor and ignition components are specific to the AR code.
The AR's primary reliability risk is neglect of basic maintenance, particularly valve adjustments and oil changes. While mechanically simple, UK DVSA MOT data indicates oil leaks (often from the cooler or pushrod tube seals) and ignition faults are common causes of failure. Adherence to the strict 3,000-mile valve check interval and using the correct mineral oil are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1974-1983) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AR.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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