The nomadic lifestyle has become massively popular in recent years, with many people abandoning traditional home-living for a life on the road in self-sufficient vans. As of this post, #vanlife has nearly 11 million posts on Instagram. A crucial step toward van life involves the van conversion: gutting a camper van and customizing it with all the comforts of home. Here we dive into van life with a Sprinter Van.
Why Is Van Life So Popular?
Vans offer several advantages over traditional RVs. Perhaps the most important benefit is their smaller size: vans can fit into a regular parking space and can access more remote destinations. Because of their lighter weight, they are more fuel-efficient, easier to maintain, and far more affordable.
The psychological reasons for why van life is so popular are more difficult to unravel. But humans have always been drawn to both the comforts of home and the excitement of adventure, and vans are a great way to connect the two. In a converted van, you are home wherever you go.
Which Van is the Best to Convert?
Selecting the right van for your DIY conversion project can seem daunting. There are many options to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. One of the most popular vans to convert is the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van. With its sleek look, customizability, and length options, this is the go-to van for first time converters.
Mercedes offers three different configurations for its Sprinter Vans: Cargo, Crew, and Passenger. Each has different capabilities and sizing, which allows you to select an option that addresses your spacing requirements.
capacity is also the highest at 7500 lbs.
Crew vans are also a great choice, especially if you are in the market for a lighter option. They have a slightly lower cargo volume of 259.4 cubic feet and a towing capacity of 5000 lbs.
configurations come in wheelbase lengths of 144 to 170 inches; the Cargo also has a 170 inch “extended” option available.
Check Out Our Specials On Sprinter Vans
Are Mercedes Sprinter Vans Comfortable?
option, which leaves plenty of room for added amenities and customization. The high-roof option is 6 feet 3 inches, which means the average person can stand upright comfortably.
The notion of not having to stoop in your van is, in itself, a high selling point. However, even the shorter and lower versions are perfectly comfortable to move around in. The 148” wheelbase and 5 foot 3 inch ceiling is more than adequate for 2 people, which is why many young couples have opted for this version when undertaking their first van renovation.
Do Sprinters Get Good Gas Mileage?
Sprinter Vans have a diesel engine. This means they not only get better gas mileage, they also allow you to integrate sophisticated heating systems, such as Espar or Webasto. These systems require diesel to operate. In a gasoline-fueled van, you would need to install an auxiliary diesel tank to run them, which is expensive and adds to the weight of your vehicle.
Are There Any Drawbacks to the Mercedes Sprinter Vans?
The main factors that may be considered drawbacks are the price and the diesel engine. Again, while Sprinters are more expensive initially, they maintain their value for longer and re-sell at a higher price.
The diesel engine is typically going to be an advantage when it comes to mileage and durability. However, you will want to keep in mind that diesel fueling stations are not as readily available in certain areas. If you intend to travel to countries farther south, for example, you may be better off with a gasoline-fueled van.
Does Mercedes Benz of Littleton Sell Sprinter Vans?
also offer servicing specials and genuine parts to keep your van in top shape. Visit us today for a tune up or a test drive. And look to our Sprinter Vans for Sale page
Get the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter & Metris Vans now at Mercedes-Benz of Littleton!
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