Back in 1896, the Mercedes-Benz introduced what we might consider the first ‘van,’ but it wasn’t until 1956 that they released the L 319 model, which is a lot closer to today’s Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The L 319 was a real game-changer with its high payload capacity, making it perfect for construction or delivery workers who needed to haul large, heavy loads.
Fast forward to 2022, and the third generation of the Sprinter is offering more customization than ever before, with two roof heights, five weight classes, five different body configurations, and a slew of high-tech safety and luxury features.
ADF & The Mercedes Sprinter Van
Before founding ADF Sprinters, Ron Weaver worked extensively with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis immediately after it was released into the United States. Ron was responsible for designing and overseeing the production of ultra high-end, private jet-style interiors for A-list celebrities and C-level executives around the globe. During this time, Ron built a lasting relationship with Mercedes-Benz Vans engineers, and the Sprinter chassis was a quickly established favorite among customers.
Fast forward 18 years, and ADF Sprinters continues to focus their builds primarily around the Sprinter Chassis, emphasizing the best Sprinter van conversions, including adventure vans, mobile offices, tour buses, executive suites, and commercial solutions.
The Options Are Endless
What’s exciting about shopping for a Mercedes Sprinter Chassis is there are several options for you to choose from. There are 21 variations of the Sprinter Cargo van alone. This variety allows potential customers to select a model that will suit their needs exactly and not settle for a van that won’t provide the requirements of what they plan to use it for.
Mercedes continues to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to their clients and vehicles; everyone will need something different, and they continue to provide significant value.
4×4 & 2WD Drivetrains
The Mercedes Sprinter 4×4 drivetrain, introduced in 2015, quickly became the go-to choice for adventure and campervan enthusiasts. It’s unique as it’s the only full-size van that comes directly from the factory with a selectable 4×4 chassis.
Due to its immense popularity, acquiring a 4×4 Sprinter has become quite a challenge. Many potential buyers find themselves on long waitlists or even traveling great distances to find one. As a result of this high demand for the 4WD model, some have had to settle for the 2WD Sprinter, which is itself hard to come by.
In 2023, Mercedes further expanded its offerings by introducing an all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the Sprinter. This new option provides an additional choice for those seeking enhanced driving stability and performance in various conditions, promising to make the Sprinter even more appealing to a wider audience.
Diesel & Gas Engines
When choosing a Mercedes Sprinter van to convert, you also have the choice of a Gas or Diesel engine, which will both provide their specific benefits.
A gas sprinter will be most comparable to the average passenger vehicle, such as a sedan or compact SUV. They’re excellent engines for those in more urban areas who expect to be stopped frequently at red lights, stop signs, etc. However, if you know you will spend a great deal of time on highways and traveling long distances, a diesel engine would be more ideal!
Something to mention is how Diesel engines experience a turbo-lag on the initial acceleration but provide great strength and longevity over the life of the engine.
144, 170, 170” Extended Wheelbase
Determining the correct wheelbase for your conversion is essential, so ask yourself these questions:
- How do you want to use your conversion?
- How many people do you want to seat?
- How much storage space do you need?
- How do you like to organize your gear?
Mercedes-Benz continues to provide you with multiple solutions and offers three different wheelbases, the 144″, 170″, and 170″ Extended. The 144″ wheelbase will allow you to be the most agile if you want to explore remote locations and tackle challenging trails (make sure to get all terrain tires). But, if you’re a family of four, who loves to set up camp in established campgrounds, consider the 170″ or 170” Extended, as everyone will have ample space to lounge inside the conversion comfortably.
Read here to continue learning about wheelbases and which will suit your lifestyle the best.
When looking for a Sprinter van, there are two roof sizes, the Standard Roof and the High Roof. The High Roof is one of the most popular roof choices among van life as the 6’2” finished height allows almost anyone to stand and move around comfortably. If you choose this height, be aware of low-hanging bridges, garages, drive-thrus, and more, as your nearly 10 foot tall conversion will likely exceed the height limit for these areas.
The low-roof sprinter is an excellent choice if you prefer to camp in something more stealthy. While the standing height measures about 5’5″, there is always the option to add on a pop-top to extend your height and provide you with additional sleeping space. The standard roof option is limited to the 144” wheelbase van.
Re-Sale Value of the Mercedes Sprinter Van
Lastly, one of the most important benefits of a Mercedes Sprinter is its incredible resale value compared to its competitors when it comes time to sell your campervan. They’re reliable vehicles with a respectable reputation, so there will likely always be a buyer if your campervan was appropriately maintained!
Sourcing A Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
It’s easy to understand why the Mercedes Sprinter is the go-to vehicle for luxury campervan conversions. Some even refer to Mercedes as “the king of passenger and cargo vans” as they’re not only reliable but perform exceptionally well on established roads and remote trails. If you’re interested in learning more about Mercedes and why a Sprinter Van is suitable for your conversion, reach our team at [email protected].
We also have multiple Sprinter Van Chassis ready for purchase – Check out our Sprinter Vans For Sale Page.
