Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter?
The debate between these two vans is a classic one in the van community, and for good reason. The truth is, you can't go wrong with either. The best choice ultimately comes down to your personal needs and preferences.
Mercedes Sprinter
When you think of van life, chances are you're picturing a Sprinter. This iconic van comes in a couple of sizes. The 144-inch wheelbase is perfect if you're building a compact, two-person camper that's easy to drive and park. But if you need space for a family of four, you'll want to step up to the 170-inch wheelbase, like the one we use for our builds at Moon Wolf Vans. At 23 feet long, this extended version gives you a ton of room for activities and feels incredibly stable on the highway—a key advantage over the Transit. And while Mercedes' diesel engines are known for lasting for hundreds of thousands of miles, you'll find that with 210 horsepower, the current models aren't exactly quick when merging onto the highway.
Ford Transit
While the Transit may not have the same iconic status as the Sprinter, it's an exceptional van in its own right. The Ford Transit 148" wheelbase, extended length model is comparable to the Sprinter in overall length, but its shorter wheelbase gives it a distinct advantage. You'll immediately notice the superior handling in tight city spaces and parking lots—it's nearly as nimble as the smaller Sprinter 144.
When it comes to power, the Transit is in a class of its own. All of our vans are equipped with the twin-turbo V6 engine, which delivers a robust 310 horsepower—a full 100 horsepower more than the Sprinter. This power makes a huge difference when merging onto a highway or tackling steep grades.
Inside, the Transit's SYNC 4 infotainment system is a standout feature. Its 12-inch touchscreen has a familiar, tablet-like form factor that makes using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto a more intuitive and enjoyable experience compared to the Sprinter's wide, short display.
A consultation is a great place to start when you need a little more information or you are ready to make the jump and put down your deposit. We can answer any of your questions and set up your build slot.
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