Learn all about this popular and practical luxury full-size conversion van
When you hear “Mercedes Benz,” you probably don’t associate the luxury automaker with the utility of a full-sized conversion van. The Mercedes Sprinter may sound extravagant or over-the-top as far as conversion vans go, but don’t be fooled by the three-pointed star on the grill. While the Sprinter is no doubt luxurious, it has also been engineered with the reliability, practicality and power of other conversion vans.
While the price tag of the Mercedes Benz Sprinter is slightly higher than other conversion vans, such as the Ford Transit, Nissan NV, Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana, the Sprinter sets the example for all other conversion vans in terms of luxury. It is this combination of luxury, technology and performance that earns the Sprinter its nickname – “a private jet on wheels.”
Continue reading to find out if the Mercedes Sprinter 4×4 is the best conversion van for you:
Mercedes Power
The Mercedes Sprinter, formerly known as the “Freightliner,” was conceived by the German automaker with performance and reliability at its core. The Sprinter comes with the choice of two engines: a turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel generating 161 HP and a 266-lb. per feet of torque with a 7-speed automatic transmission; or a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel V6 rated at 188 HP and 325-pound per feet of torque paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Both engine options have an impressive 5,000-lb. towing capacity. The cargo van chassis has an impressive payload from 2,973 pounds to 3,513 pounds.
Sprinter 4×4 Performance
While you’re probably not associating speed with a full-sized van, the Sprinter boasts impressive performance. The Mercedes Sprinter can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in under 12 seconds, and zero to 100 in under 19 seconds. The Sprinter tops out at 82 mph.
Mercedes Conversion Economy
The Mercedes Benz Sprinter 4×4 is equipped with cutting-edge BlueTec, clean diesel technology. BlueTec offers some of the lowest emissions and highest fuel economy of any vehicles. The Sprinter 4×4 has an estimated 26.7 mpg.
Sprinter Safety
The Mercedes name is synonymous with high safety standards. Every 2016 model comes with traction and stability control. Lane Keeping Assist and Crosswind technology gives the van added security when traveling over 50 mph. Front side and front side curtain airbags are standard.
Mercedes Sprinter Dimensions
The Sprinter is spacious, with an impressive wheelbase of 144.3 inches. The van is 79.7 inches wide and an impressive 124.0 inches tall. With 7 feet of interior clearance, the Sprinter is incredibly comfortable for road trips, work transportation and driving around the family.
Mercedes Van Style
Much like other Mercedes vehicles, the Sprinter’s sleek and luxurious exterior commands attention. There are many different finishes and trims available with the Sprinter 4×4. You can start basic with factory wheels and running boards, or upgrade to having your outside bumpers and trim matching the body color.
So much is possible when you build your very own Sprinter with a conversion van company like Classic Vans. There are so many amenities and customizations you can have made to order, including:
- color coordinated door panels
- stainless steel fiber optics ceiling
- swivel captain’s chairs
- beverage and snack refrigeration
- state-of-the-art entertainment systems
- color keyed driver compartment
- luxurious leather and hand stitched seating
- heat and massage features built into chairs
- premium carpeting and vinyl flooring
- fold out tray tables built into the wall.
Customizing Your Mercedes Sprinter
Since Mercedes Sprinters are available as “bare bones” cargo vans, the possibilities for upgrades are nearly endless. If you plan on using your Sprinter strictly for hauling equipment, the interior space is efficient enough for any endeavor.
Mercedes Sprinters can be used for a variety of purposes. Custom Sprinters can serve as family vehicles, camper vans (class B motorhomes), cargo vans, passenger vans, tailgate vehicles, limousines, office/work vans, church vans, golf vans, wheelchair accessible vans, commercial vans and more.
The Sprinter is also a fantastic luxury transport vehicle. With more interior space and the ability to stand up, the Sprinter is number one in luxury travel – even above the traditional limousine.
If you plan on using your van for personal use such as a family vehicle, outdoor recreation or a spacious everyday ride, the sky’s the limit when it comes to additional features!
Comparing the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster
The Mercedes name and attention to detail is going to cost you a bit more than its conversion van competitors. The Ford Transit and Dodge Ram ProMaster, for instance, have a lower base price range that starts at around six grand less than the Mercedes Sprinter; however, they fall short compared to the Sprinter in certain areas. Also, neither the Transit nor the ProMaster offer 4×4 drivetrains.
Car and Driver took bare bones chassis of the Dodge Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter and compared the three. Some of the notable differences are below:
| Dodge Ram ProMaster | Ford Transit | Mercedes Sprinter |
| Poor handling, single-clutch automated transmission, loose steering system | Quality handling, 3.2 Liter inline-five produces impressive power and torque | Comfortable driving position, seating and steering. Drives like a sedan |
| Slow acceleration | Quickest acceleration time | Strong acceleration, smooth shifting 7-speed automatic transmission |
| Longest distance to stop from 70 mph | Stable and comfortable stops | Stable and comfortable stops |
| Loud, bumpy ride, received a 4 out of 10 for driver comfort | Smooth ride, received an 8 out of 10 for driver comfort | Smooth ride, received an 8 out of 10 for driver comfort |
| MSRP: $31,265- $39,665* | MSRP: $32,805- $44,565 | MSRP: $33,490- $57,085* |
*Prices based on 2016 cargo van chassis. Dodge Ram Promaster, Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter prices are likely to be higher in passenger van models.
Continue reading: Compare and Contrast Full Size Vans
Shop Mercedes Sprinters for Sale
At Classic Vans, located in the San Francisco Bay area, we have the nation’s best selection of new and used Mercedes vans, including the full-size Sprinter and Metris minivan. Contact us today to ask about getting your custom van built and delivered to you in several weeks. Nationwide delivery is low-cost!