Volks 13-130 v1.0
The Volkswagen 13-130 is a classic medium-duty truck that holds a significant place in the history of Volkswagen in Brazil. It was one of the first trucks produced by Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus after the company acquired Chrysler do Brasil’s truck division in 1981.
Key Features and Specifications
* **Engine:** The 13-130 was equipped with a robust **MWM 229-6 diesel engine**, a 6-cylinder in-line unit with a displacement of 5,883 cc. This engine produced a maximum power of 130 horsepower and a torque of 358.9 Nm.
* **Transmission:** It featured a manual transmission, typically a **Clark 5-speed**, which was known for its durability.
* **Design:** A notable feature of the 13-130 was its **tilting cab**, which was a first for a Brazilian truck in its segment. This cab, with its distinctive “face” and advanced design for the time, was derived from the German Volkswagen Transporter van. It provided much easier access to the engine for maintenance.
* **Payload:** The number “13” in its name refers to its Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 13,000 kg, or 13 tons, which was its technical capacity.
Market Impact and Legacy
The VW 13-130 was a game-changer for Volkswagen. It was designed in Germany but developed and tested extensively in Brazil, making it a product uniquely suited to the local market. It was a reliable, medium-duty truck suitable for a wide range of applications, from urban deliveries to short-haul transport.
Because of its durability and ease of maintenance, the 13-130 quickly became a popular choice and is still seen on the roads today. Its launch marked the definitive entry of Volkswagen into the commercial vehicle market, laying the groundwork for its successful line of trucks that followed.
Common Characteristics and Considerations
* **Maintenance:** The MWM 229-6 engine is widely praised for being simple and easy to maintain, which is a major reason why many of these trucks are still in operation.
* **Cab Rust:** A known issue with these older models is the tendency for the cab to rust over time. It’s not uncommon to find models that have required significant bodywork to address this problem.
* **Spare Parts:** While many mechanical parts are still available due to the popularity of the MWM engine, finding original body and trim parts can be a challenge.
* **Historical Significance:** The 13-130 is considered a classic truck and is highly regarded by enthusiasts. It represents a pivotal moment in the history of Volkswagen in Brazil, as it was the vehicle that established the brand’s presence in the heavy-duty commercial sector.
