Throughout the van build you’ll be suffocated by indecision. There are just so many options and one of the first is which van should I get?
Here are some things we considered when weighing up whether to go for the ever so popular sprinter vs promaster. (Relay in Europe)
Sprinter vs Promaster head to head
Mercedes Sprinter
Pros:
- Larger headroom – 0.75 inches higher
- 325 pounds of torque
- Diesel engine – better fuel mileage
- Made in the United States
- Option to purchase completely raw
- Established community of Sprinter owners
- Rear wheel drive or 4×4 option
Cons:
- Costs of parts and repairs are generally higher
- Lower payload and towing capacity
Mercedes Sprinter Stats
Average Purchase Cost (National)
New 2019 models = $40,740
2014 Used Model in Excellent Condition = $29,552
Servicing/ Cost of Ownership
Calculating the average cost of ownership including taxes, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation, the average 5-year cost of ownership on a newly purchases Mercedes Sprinter is approximately $55,612.
Specs
Engine Options
161-hp, 2.1-liter I-4 (diesel) OR 188-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 (diesel)
Drivetrain
Rear-wheel drive; 7-speed automatic with overdrive and auto-shift manual transmission (2.1L Diesel) OR 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive (3.0L Diesel)
Fuel Capacity
22.0 gallons
Exterior
Size: 233.54 x 92.3 x 114.2 inches; Wheelbase of 144 inches
Protection from Rust and Corrosion: 60 month/100,000miles standard
Optional Accessories and Aftermarket Additions
There are several optional accessories when purchasing a new Mercedes Sprinter, these include:
- Comfort Overhead Control Panel
- Navigation
- Exterior Lighting Package
- Parking Package with Back Up Camera
- Comfort Package
- Comfort Plus Package
- Driver Convenience Package
- High-Performance Air Conditioning
- Parking Package W/360 Degree Camera
- Passenger Accessibility Package
- Premium Package
- Premium Plus Package
- Rear Comfort Package
- Stabilization Level II
- Painted Metallic Front & Rear Bumpers
- Security Alarm with Interior Motion Sensor
- Electrically Adjustable Driver Seat
- Electrically Adjustable Front Passenger Seat
- Wheels: 16″ X 6.5J Light-Alloy
Dodge Promaster
Pros:
- Powerful engine
- Increased payload and towing capacity
- More maneuverability
Cons:
- Smaller wheelbase
- Smaller cargo space (potential living space of 259.0 ft3)
Now that you have seen the pros and cons, let’s get into some of the specifics about the Dodge Promaster,
Average Purchase Cost (National)
New 2019 models = $29,180
2014 Used Model in Excellent Condition = $20,708
Servicing/ Cost of Ownership
Calculating the average cost of ownership including taxes, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation, the average 5-year cost of ownership on a newly purchases Mercedes Sprinter is approximately $51,509.
Specs
Engine Options
280-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 (regular gas) OR 174-hp, 3.0-liter I-4 (diesel)
Drivetrain
Front wheel drive, 6-speed auto-shift manual transmission with overdrive (3.6L) or 6-speed automatic with overdrive and 6-speed auto-shift manual transmission (3.0L Diesel)
Fuel Capacity
24.0 gallons
Exterior
Size: 195.4 x 97.6 x 91.7 inches; Wheelbase of 118 inches
Protection from Rust and Corrosion: 60 month/100,000miles standard
Optional Accessories and Aftermarket Additions
There are several optional accessories when purchasing a new Dodge Promaster, these include:
- Mopar Interior Cargo Rack Package
- Mopar Spray-On Floor Liner
- Mopar Remote Start System
- Mopar Trailer Tow Group
- Driver Swivel Seat
- Passenger Swivel Seat
| Category | Mercedes Sprinter | Dodge Promaster |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | 4x2 or 4x4 | Front Wheel Drive |
| Max Engine Size | 3.0L V6 Diesel | 3.6L V6 |
| Max Torque Capacity | 325 lbs./ft | 260 lbs./ft |
| Fuel Tank | 22 gallons | 24 gallons |
| Cargo Size | 319.1 ft3 | 259.0 ft3 |
| Head Room | 66.5 inches | 65.4 inches |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5000 lbs. | 5100 lbs. |
| 5-year Cost of Ownership** | $55,612 | $51,509 |
| Best for Low-Cost Camper | X | |
| Best for Off-Grid Camper | X | |
| Best for Modifications | X |
Some great examples you can see on Instagram
Sprinter Van Conversion Example or search #sprintervanconversion
Promaster Van Conversion Example or search #promastervanconversion
Verdict
Obviously, you are going to make your final decision based on your own personal needs and desires. However, when looked at from a purely analytically standpoint the clear numbers-based winner is the Mercedes Sprinter. Not only does the Sprinter offer more cargo space, but they have been using diesel engines in the Sprinter longer than it has been an option for the Promaster. As an added bonus, you can easily order a completely bare Sprinter so you eliminate the trouble of removing what you will not need.
Wrap Up
We’ve shown you the specifics now it is your turn to make the ultimate decision on which van you want to make into your very own home away from home. You can choose to do all of the modifications yourself or commission the work done by one of many custom shops. Thankfully, the rise in popularity of these types of conversions makes the availability of DIY kits and custom shops more abundant. When you have made your conversion, make sure to give us a peek at your new home. We look forward to seeing what you come up with.
