Transit Vs Sprinter: a Side-by-Side Comparison
Choosing the best vehicle for van life is an important decision that should include research, test-driving, and extensive thought.
If you’re thinking about diving into van life, whether part-time or full-time, you’ll want to make sure you choose a vehicle that’s right for you. There are an abundance of van options, but in this blog post I’m going to be comparing the Ford Transit to the Mercedes Sprinter. I’ve been living on the road full-time for over 3 years and recently made the switch from Sprinter to Transit. My partner and I just purchased a 2016 148″ WB Ford Transit High Roof with 20,000 miles on it. My previous van (that I still own and am renting out on Outdoorsy), is a 2016 144″ WB Mercedes-Benz Sprinter High Roof with 100,000 miles on it. So, here is my opinion as an owner of both vans, regarding the ongoing debate of Transit vs Sprinter.
A few things to think about when you're deciding what kind of van you want to get:
- BUDGET: How much are you able to spend on your vehicle? Would you rather pay more up front for the cost of a newer vehicle or more on fixing up an older vehicle? Also, consider the make of the car and where you’ll need to get it serviced or worked on. Dealerships/specialty engines require specialty mechanics and cost more.
- HEIGHT: How tall are you? Interior standing height of a high roof Transit is 4 inches taller than the interior standing height of a high roof Sprinter. You’ll want about 2 inches (at least) for ceiling and floor insulation/installation, so if you’re over 6’2″, consider the Transit.
- LIFESPAN: How long do you plan on having your van? Do you plan to sell it after you’re done using it? Sprinters are usually diesel (years 2019-2020 are now available in gas too) while Transits are usually gas (year 2020 is now available in diesel too). Diesel vehicles have a much longer lifespan than gas vehicles. This adds to Sprinters having a much higher resale value, if you plan to sell yours down the line.
- NEW VS USED: This is a big one. Buying new is obviously more expensive and you will have to eat the depreciation cost. BUT you’ll also have a reliable car under warranty and have an easier job financing it (if you need a loan). Buying a lightly used van is ideal, something with low mileage and a clean history, that still has its warranty. I bought my first van (Sprinter) brand new, which was a great option for me since I ended up traveling in it as a solo female for years. However, my second van (Transit) I bought lightly used, with the warranty still in tact and under 20,000 miles.
- USAGE: What do you plan to use your van for? Chase snow for mountain sports? Then consider a 4×4. If you plan to chase warm weather, 4×4 is fairly unnecessary and an easy cost to cut. If you plan to stealth, you’ll want to go with a more discrete, potentially compact van. Lose the exterior accessories if you’re worried about going unnoticed. Figure out your “why” and that will help you decide which van is best for you.
Ford Transit
