W8 4.0 (BDN/BDP) vs 1.8 NA
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Specifications
Character
W8 4.0 (BDN/BDP)
"Volkswagen's 4.0 W8 (2001-2004), sold only in the Passat W8 4motion: two narrow-angle VR4 banks, 275 PS, three timing chains at the back of the engine. Smooth, but extremely complex. The plastic chain tensioners and guides wear and the camshaft adjusters fail (about EUR 4,000), and the chain drive and even the lambda sensors need the engine out. It is sensitive to overheating, which can scuff the cylinders. Ignition coils fail. Buy only with proof of chain work."
1.8 NA
"Simple 1.8-litre 8-valve petrol with single-point Mono-Motronic injection and hydraulic lifters, in the Golf III, Vento, Passat B3/B4, Polo 6N and Seat Ibiza, Cordoba and Toledo. Long-lived: an Auto Bild test car covered 261,724 km in seven years, and specialists quote about 300,000 km. Expect oil leaks from seals and the valve cover, tired lambda and coolant temperature sensors, and an unstable idle from a dirty or split throttle body. Keep the timing belt tensioned and changed on time: a slack belt can jump and wreck the engine."