W8 4.0 (BDN/BDP) vs 2.3 V5
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."
2.3 V5
"VW 2.3 narrow-angle five-cylinder (VR5), a VR6 with one cylinder less, in the Golf IV, Bora, New Beetle, Passat B5 and SEAT Toledo. 150 hp 10-valve (AGZ) to 2001, then 170 hp 20-valve (AQN/AZX). Smooth and torquey but thirsty. Coil packs and the mass airflow sensor are the usual faults; the two timing chains sit at the gearbox end and are an engine-out job when they wear. Rare engine, few specialists."