Mercedes-Benz » Vario
In 1996, the T2 model has been restyled and received the Vario name. The new trucks received the updated interior, new engines, restyled exterior design and other changes. The Vario is the most unusual model in the Mercedes-Benz model line-up, which combines good visibility, comfort, functionality, has a payload up tp 4.4 tons and a body volume up to 17.4 cubic meters. It can be fitted with a number of different bodies: van, minibus, chassis, chassis with a flatbed, dump truck, and chassis with a twin cab. There are standard or high roof versions. Gross vehicle weight is 3,5-8,2 tons, 4x2 or 4x4 wheel configurations and several types of wheelbase (3150-4800 mm). Firstly, there were two types of diesel engines - 5-cyliner OM602LA (2874 cm3) and 4 cylinder OM904LA (4250 cm3), turbocharged and intercooled. Since September 2000, the new Vario 618D/818D models are equipped with a 4.2-liter turbodiesel engine with intercooler and direct injection with an output of 136 or 150 hp and torque of 520 or 580 Nm, respectively. The most powerful is 177 hp, 675Nm engine. With the introduction of the Euro4 environmental standards, the Vario was began to equipped with OM904LA series BlueTec4 turbocharged and intercooled engine with working volume of 4250 cm3 and a power of 129, 156 or 177 hp. All 4x2 models are equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox, and later, as an option, was offered an automatic 5-speed transmission. For difficult road conditions the all-wheel drive version can be offered, which is equipped with a locking rear and center differentials and has smaller gear rations (model 814DA, and 815DA). All Mercedes-Benz Vario have a suspension on parabolic leaf springs, all ventilated disc brakes and steering booster. The trucks have double-circuit brake system with hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, with ABS and ALB systems. The interior of the cabin received new dashboard, adjustable in all directions driver's seat, Improved sound insulation, a new heating and ventilation systems, driver's airbag and three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
