Van Buying Guide • From a Builder

Best Van for Van Life: A Builder's Perspective

Sprinter vs Transit vs Promaster — Which One Should You Buy?

Every van conversion starts with a question: which van should I buy? The internet is full of opinions, most from people who own one van and think it's the best because it's what they have. Here's a different perspective — from a shop that's built out hundreds of Sprinters, Transits, and Promasters. We'll tell you what actually matters.

The Short Answer

All three vans — Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram Promaster — make excellent camper vans. The differences matter less than you think. Your build quality, electrical system, and layout matter more than which badge is on the front. Buy the one you can find in good condition at a fair price.

That said, there are real differences. Let's break them down.

Mercedes Sprinter

The Classic Choice

✓ Strengths

Resale value: Sprinters hold their value better than any other van. If you build it well, you'll get good money back when you sell.
Reputation: The "original" adventure van. Proven over decades. Parts and knowledge widely available.
Build quality: Solid construction, good materials, well-engineered.
AWD option: Factory AWD available (and actually good, unlike some competitors' 4WD systems).
Diesel efficiency: 18-22 MPG is realistic. The 3.0L diesel is proven and efficient.

✗ Weaknesses

Price: Most expensive to buy, both new and used. A comparable Sprinter costs $10-20K more than a Transit or Promaster.
Repair costs: Mercedes parts and labor are expensive. Finding a good independent diesel mechanic helps.
DEF system issues: The emissions system (AdBlue/DEF) on newer models can be problematic. Pre-2019 models avoided some of this.
Height: High roof Sprinters are tall — 9'4" to 9'6". Watch for parking garages and drive-throughs.

Best For:

People who want the proven choice and don't mind paying for it. Full-timers who value resale. Anyone prioritizing AWD capability.

Ford Transit

The Smart Money

✓ Strengths

Value: Significantly cheaper than a Sprinter for similar size and capability. The best bang for your buck.
Service network: Ford dealers everywhere. Any mechanic knows the 3.5L EcoBoost or gas V6. Parts are readily available.
Reliability: The EcoBoost engine is proven across millions of F-150s. It works.
Size options: Most variety in wheelbases and roof heights. Can get exactly the size you need.
AWD available: 2020+ models offer AWD. Works well.

✗ Weaknesses

Fuel economy: The gas engine gets 14-16 MPG. Diesel option discontinued in US. This adds up on long trips.
Interior width: Slightly narrower than Promaster at the widest point. Not a huge deal, but noticeable in some layouts.
Resale: Doesn't hold value quite as well as Sprinter (but nothing does).

Best For:

Most people, honestly. If you want quality without overpaying for a badge, the Transit is hard to beat. Great for weekenders and occasional full-timers who don't want Mercedes repair bills.

Ram Promaster

The Interior Space Champion

✓ Strengths

Width: Widest interior of any van — over 6 feet between wheel wells. Fits a full-size bed sideways. Big deal for layouts.
Low floor: Front-wheel drive means no driveshaft hump. Lower floor height makes the interior feel bigger and entry easier.
Price: Often the cheapest of the three, especially used. Good value.
Height: Slightly shorter than Sprinter high roof — fits in more parking structures.

✗ Weaknesses

FWD only: No AWD or 4WD option from the factory. Limits off-road capability. Aftermarket 4WD conversions exist but are expensive.
Ride quality: Can feel less refined on the highway than Transit or Sprinter.
Engine: The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is reliable but not exciting. Similar fuel economy to Transit.
Resale: Lowest resale value of the three. Not a big deal if you're keeping it.

Best For:

Couples who want maximum interior space. Anyone doing mostly highway and campground travel (where FWD limitation doesn't matter). Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize interior volume.

What Actually Matters More Than the Van

Condition When You Buy It

A well-maintained Transit will serve you better than an abused Sprinter. Get a pre-purchase inspection. Check service records. Rust matters more than brand.

Your Build Quality

The conversion matters more than the base vehicle. A properly designed electrical system, good insulation, and quality craftsmanship will determine your daily experience far more than which badge is on the front.

Your Actual Use Case

Weekend camping? Full-time living? Off-grid boondocking? City parking? Different uses favor different features. A city dweller might prioritize lower height. A boondocker needs AWD. Know how you'll actually use it.

Not Sure Which Van to Buy?

We've built out all three platforms hundreds of times. Tell us how you're planning to use your van, and we'll give you honest advice on which one makes the most sense — even if it means pointing you to a different builder who specializes in something we don't.

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Let's Get Started

Trying to figure out which van to buy? We can help. Tell us how you're planning to use it and we'll give you honest advice — no sales pitch, just real information.

ADDRESS:

6159 E Huntsville Rd, Fayetteville, AR 72701

PHONE:

(479) 326-9200

EMAIL:

info@ozkvans.com