Volkswagen LT 31D
Built: 1979-1985 · Series: LT
More machines from model year 1979
Not the right version? The data comes from vehicle registers holding many near-identical versions side by side. Photograph the data plate — we read make and type from it. Open the scanner e-mail address required
VW LT — Lasten-Transporter, and the number is the weight: LT 28 to LT 35 from 2.8 to 3.5 tonnes, a first generation from 1975 and a second, Sprinter-related generation from 1996
LT stands for Lasten-Transporter (load carrier), and the two-digit number gives the permissible gross weight: LT 28 means 2.8 tonnes, LT 31 means 3.1, LT 35 accordingly 3.5 tonnes. The designation is therefore immediately readable — unlike many competitors, no internal series number hides behind it, just a plain figure.
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In 1975 Volkswagen extended its transporter range upwards with the LT, making it a forerunner of today's widespread 3.5-tonne class. It was offered in several body styles: panel van, combi, flatbed and chassis, plus two wheelbases and two roof heights — the basis for its reputation as a space wonder and for its large following among camper converters to this day.
In 1996 the second generation arrived, developed jointly with Mercedes-Benz and largely identical to the Sprinter. The LT2 offered three wheelbases (3,000, 3,550 and 4,025 mm) and two roof heights. Anyone assessing a vehicle should therefore establish the generation first: between LT1 and LT2 lies not a facelift but a joint redesign with another manufacturer.
For spare parts that is good news. A vehicle closely related to the Sprinter stays supplied longer and more widely than a one-off design.
Within the 2.8 to 3.5-tonne gross weight range covered here, the LT can be driven throughout on a category B licence and is exempt from the Sunday and public-holiday driving ban for lorries; chassis versions of the LT2 with a double cab or extended frame for special bodywork, however, were offered up to a gross weight of 4.6 tonnes, already placing them in the higher N2 class.
Sources: SpecCodex register, model data: Volkswagen Transporter LT, Volkswagen
Technical data
Engine
| Cylinders | 6correct |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,355 cm³correct |
Dimensions and weights
| Length | 4,880 mmcorrect |
|---|---|
| Width | 2,140 mmcorrect |
| Wheelbase | 2,970 mmcorrect |
| Unladen weight | 1,900 kgcorrect |
| Gross vehicle weight | 3,220 kgcorrect |
Drivetrain and chassis
| Wheels | 4correct |
|---|---|
| Top speed | 110 km/hcorrect |
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Volkswagen LT 31D weigh?
The unladen weight is 1,900 kg.
What is the gross vehicle weight of the Volkswagen LT 31D?
3,220 kg.
What engine does the Volkswagen LT 31D have?
6 cylinders, 2,355 cm³ displacement.
How fast does the Volkswagen LT 31D go?
Top speed is 110 km/h.
What are the dimensions of the Volkswagen LT 31D?
4,880 mm × 2,140 mm.
When was the Volkswagen LT 31D built?
Production years: 1979-1985.
What to check before buying
- Check the hour meter against the service records — a replaced instrument is the most common gap.
- Compare the data plate and chassis number with the papers.
- Check the weights in the papers against the figures here — attachments change them.
- Ask about parts availability for this build year — the running costs hang on it.
A general list for this type of machine — no substitute for an inspection or an appraiser.
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This page carries 11 individual figures for this model. They come from 1 recorded source; every figure can be traced there. What we cannot document is not here — we leave gaps open rather than estimate them.
The technical data on this page comes from official vehicle registration records (RDW/Traficom), not from the manufacturer.
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Other models in this series
LT 26 1.6
LT 28
LT 28 116 KW TDI
LT 28 61 KW TDI
LT 28 61 KW TDI VERH. DAK
LT 28 66 KW TDI
LT 28 66 KW TDI V.D.
LT 28 70 KW TDI
LT 28 70 KW TDI D.C.
LT 28 70 KW TDI VERH. DAK
LT 28 70 KW TDI VERH. DAK D.C.
LT 28 80 KW TDI
Sources: RDW — Dutch national vehicle register (retrieved August 2026) · How we check the data
Van in 3D section
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