Unveiling the truth: ford transit lwb vs mercedes sprinter head-to-head

In the realm of commercial vans, the Ford Transit LWB and Mercedes Sprinter stand out as formidable contenders. These full-size vans offer exceptional cargo capacity, versatility, and performance. However, choosing between them can be a daunting task, as both have their strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Ford Transit LWB and Mercedes Sprinter to help you make an informed decision.

Power and Performance

Engine Options:

• Ford Transit LWB: 3.5L V6 gas engine (275 hp, 420 lb-ft) or 3.5L Power Stroke V6 diesel engine (250 hp, 410 lb-ft)
• Mercedes Sprinter: 2.0L inline-4 turbo diesel engine (188 hp, 325 lb-ft) or 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine (250 hp, 442 lb-ft)

Transmission:

• Ford Transit LWB: 10-speed automatic transmission
• Mercedes Sprinter: 7-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission

Performance:

The Mercedes Sprinter offers a wider range of engine options, including a more powerful V6 diesel engine. However, the Ford Transit LWB’s V6 gas engine provides comparable power and torque, making it a suitable choice for most applications.

Cargo Capacity and Versatility

Cargo Volume:

• Ford Transit LWB: 487.3 cu. ft.
• Mercedes Sprinter: 530.8 cu. ft.

Cargo Dimensions:

• Ford Transit LWB:
• Length: 144.6 in.
• Width: 76.3 in.
• Height: 81.3 in.
• Mercedes Sprinter:
• Length: 144.8 in.
• Width: 76.3 in.
• Height: 82.7 in.

Cargo Features:

• Ford Transit LWB: Available with side and rear cargo doors, tie-down points, and bulkheads
• Mercedes Sprinter: Similar cargo features, including optional side access doors and a load-through partition

The Mercedes Sprinter offers slightly more cargo volume, while the Ford Transit LWB provides a comparable cargo area. Both vans offer a range of cargo features to enhance versatility.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety Features:

• Ford Transit LWB: Standard with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring
• Mercedes Sprinter: Standard with similar safety features, plus optional adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist

Driver Assistance Features:

• Ford Transit LWB: Optional with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams
• Mercedes Sprinter: Optional with a wider range of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency steering, traffic sign recognition, and crosswind assist

The Mercedes Sprinter offers a more comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features, providing enhanced protection and convenience for drivers.

Fuel Economy and Emissions

Fuel Economy:

• Ford Transit LWB:
• Gas engine: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
• Diesel engine: 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
• Mercedes Sprinter:
• 2.0L diesel engine: 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
• 3.0L diesel engine: 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway

Emissions:

• Ford Transit LWB: Meets EPA Tier 3 emissions standards
• Mercedes Sprinter: Meets EPA Tier 4 emissions standards

The Mercedes Sprinter offers slightly better fuel economy, while the Ford Transit LWB has lower emissions.

Interior Comfort and Convenience

Cabin Space:

• Ford Transit LWB: Spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom
• Mercedes Sprinter: Similar cabin space, with available leather seats and a panoramic sunroof

Amenities:

• Ford Transit LWB: Available with heated seats, a SYNC 3 infotainment system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot
• Mercedes Sprinter: Similar amenities, plus optional navigation and a rear-seat entertainment system

Both vans offer comfortable cabins with a range of amenities to enhance driver and passenger experience.

Ownership Costs and Maintenance

Purchase Price:

• Ford Transit LWB: Starting at around $35,000
• Mercedes Sprinter: Starting at around $40,000

Maintenance Costs:

• Ford Transit LWB: Estimated annual maintenance costs of around $800-$1,200
• Mercedes Sprinter: Estimated annual maintenance costs of around $1,000-$1,500

The Mercedes Sprinter has a higher purchase price but also offers more standard features and a more comprehensive warranty. The Ford Transit LWB has lower maintenance costs but may require more frequent repairs.

Final Verdict: Ford Transit LWB vs Mercedes Sprinter

The Ford Transit LWB and Mercedes Sprinter are both excellent full-size vans with their own strengths and weaknesses. For buyers seeking a powerful and versatile van with a competitive price and lower maintenance costs, the Ford Transit LWB is a solid choice. However, for those who prioritize fuel economy, safety, and a more luxurious experience, the Mercedes Sprinter is the better option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.

FAQs

Q1: Which van has a better warranty?
A: The Mercedes Sprinter has a longer warranty (3 years / 36,000 miles) compared to the Ford Transit LWB (3 years / 36,000 miles basic, 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain).

Q2: Is the Ford Transit LWB available in all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, the Ford Transit LWB is available with all-wheel drive as an option.

Q3: Can I customize the cargo area of the Mercedes Sprinter?
A: Yes, the Mercedes Sprinter offers a range of customization options for the cargo area, including shelving, racks, and partitions.

Q4: Which van has a higher payload capacity?
A: The Mercedes Sprinter has a higher payload capacity (3,500 lbs.) compared to the Ford Transit LWB (2,800 lbs.).

Q5: Is the Ford Transit LWB available with a passenger van configuration?
A: Yes, the Ford Transit LWB is available in a passenger van configuration with seating for up to 15 passengers.