TDI Passat 35i Syncro: Did it exist?

The title asks the question: Was there ever a TDI engine in a Passat 35i that had a Syncro all-wheel-drive system?

Best regards, WarLord.

As far as I know, that didn't exist; it was only available with the VR6 engine and the 116 hp gasoline engine. However, I'm not 100% sure!

Normally available as a 115 hp, 160 hp G60, and VR6 gasoline engine.

What do you think: Could a 4Motion all-wheel-drive system be installed in this Passat? I'm currently thinking about putting a 180 hp V6 TDI engine with all-wheel drive into a Passat 35i 3A5.

Best regards, WarLord.

Theoretically, yes, but only with a car that has a synchronized chassis. Otherwise, you'll be missing the center tunnel. I have no idea how it would fit space-wise.

What's different about the Syncro body? Is there somewhere I can see pictures of it?

Best regards, WarLord.

I'm only familiar with the 4Motion or Syncro body style from the Golf. If you look in the trunk of a car like that, you'll notice it's only half the size it should be, because the entire structure is higher due to the different axle.

I'm unsure about the clearance of the center tunnel. For example, if you were to get under your car, say, under a Golf, and then under a 4Motion, there would be space... aside from the exhaust and the other axle.

"At least with the 2er models, the Syncro versions have a different center tunnel, which is, for example, much higher. This is noticeable in the interior as well. You can imagine it's similar to a BMW, where practically only two people can sit because the center tunnel is so large. The Syncro is similar, but not quite as big. I can't imagine that it's different with the Passat."

Could the V6 TDI fit? I'm not sure how it's installed in the 3B or 3BG models.

Best regards, WarLord.

Well, if I'm not mistaken, the engine in the 35i is mounted transversely, while the older 32/33 and the new 3B Passat have engines mounted longitudinally, like in an Audi. I think that would mean it wouldn't fit easily. The engine bay might simply not be deep enough for it, but that would need to be checked.

Wow, you really don't want to go through with that, do you? For that money, you could easily get a new car... Search for the thread with the link where someone 'just' converted from a 1Z to an AFN.

Well, those were two different vehicles. Regarding the engine's orientation: the 35i engine is mounted transversely, which is correct. That would require a different transmission (which I need anyway) and a different clutch, right? However, that would then create problems with the engine mounts. Another option would be the 150 hp PD TDI engine from the Golf, but it's not known for its longevity or reliability, and the PD injectors are also very expensive. Another possibility would be to install an AFN engine into the current Passat (including the transmission and clutch) and simply swap the engine control unit. Apparently, according to someone on this forum, it's possible to do that without changing the wiring harness.

Best regards, WarLord.

V6 TDi is being [or will be]

'without extensive body modifications.'

It is not possible. A VR6 engine fits in the engine bay, but a V6 engine does not.
Back then, when we were converting the Corrado to a TDI, we looked into that topic, but we quickly dismissed it and opted for the 4-cylinder TDI instead.

Why not a 150 hp ARL engine? It probably won't fail if it's not tuned... (We know someone with a Seat Leon Top Sport with over 100,000 km on the original engine). The Syncro system is a tricky thing... Instead, consider buying a Passat Syncro with an engine problem or a faulty supercharger. A VP TDI (110 hp) would LIKELY fit the drive shafts without too much trouble. Then, you could have around 140 all-wheel-drive horsepower within a reasonable budget, even when tuned.

Regards,
arne

I converted my Golf 3 from a 1Z engine to an AFN engine. Besides the engine, engine control unit, and the turbocharger control valve, I haven't changed anything. The wiring harness is the same. The transmission and drive shafts are also the same.
'Still, the V6 would be a challenge. But it will be expensive if it fits. The ARL would probably be a much simpler option in that case.'
But even a chipped AFN engine isn't much slower than an ARL or V6 TDI, and it's reliable!

Are the transmission and drive shafts the same? I seem to recall a rumor that the AFN's transmission has a shorter 5th gear ratio. So, in terms of torque, do you think the clutch and transmission would be able to handle it? Did you just install the engine, plug in the connectors, and connect the new control unit? Then just the valve, and it was done? That sounds pretty straightforward. I'm not interested in chipping; I want a durable engine. The thing is, I'd end up with a unique Passat with the V6 TDI. The downside of the V6 TDI is the noise, and the downside of the PD engines is the high cost of the PD elements, which can also wear out.

Best regards, WarLord.

Stimmt. Das AFN Getriebe ist etwas kürzer. Habe ganz vergessen, daß ich auch noch die Kupplung vom AFN übernommen hab. Und das Zweimassenschwungrad. Das vom 1Z hätte aber auch gepasst. Ist echt einfach auf AFN umzurüsten. KabeThe tree is the same.
I thought it was about having something unique. I once considered getting a 3D print made, but it was too expensive two years ago, and I didn't have the time for it.
You've probably heard about the 'Mecki' website and the conversion from a 1Z engine to an AFN engine. I'm not sure what problems people have had with that conversion, and why. For me, everything worked fine. You just need to find an engine where the components and attachments are exactly the same as yours. The AFN engines vary quite a bit. Some cars have different wiring harnesses, others have different engine control units, or the intake manifold might point in the wrong direction. You need to do your research beforehand. Otherwise, you'll end up buying all the parts new from VW, and they're expensive.