Deciding to convert a van into a camper is an exciting venture, but the first hurdle is choosing the right van itself. For many, the choice boils down to two titans in the van world: the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Ford Transit. Both are incredibly popular platforms for van conversions, but the recent release of the 2023 Ford Transit Trail, directly targeting the adventure and DIY conversion market, has intensified the comparison.
On one side, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter boasts a long-standing reputation as the premium choice for van conversions, known for its robust build and European engineering. The 2023 Sprinter introduces a new all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter diesel engine, further enhancing its appeal. On the other side, the Ford Transit, traditionally seen as a more budget-friendly option, steps up its game with the 2023 Transit Trail. This model offers standard all-wheel drive, increased ride height, and off-road-ready features right from the factory.
The Ram Promaster is often mentioned in the van conversion conversation, but for those prioritizing all-wheel drive, the Sprinter and Transit Trail naturally rise to the top. This article dives deep into a head-to-head comparison of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the 2023 Ford Transit Trail to help you determine which van is the best foundation for your dream camper van conversion.
Ford Transit Trail: The New Contender
The Ford Transit has been a popular van for commercial use for years, and its increasing popularity in the van conversion community is undeniable. The introduction of the 2023 Transit Trail marks Ford’s direct entry into the recreational van market. This new trim is specifically designed with van lifers and converters in mind, offering features that directly address the needs of this growing community.
However, the initial excitement surrounding the Transit Trail was met with a dose of reality for many prospective buyers. Ford’s announcement of the Transit Trail coincided with the closure of their order banks for the year. This created a scramble for those wanting to get their hands on this new model. Finding a Transit Trail in late 2022 and early 2023 meant relying on dealer stock or pre-existing orders that could be modified – a challenging and often frustrating experience for eager buyers. The limited availability added an unexpected layer of complexity to acquiring the Transit Trail, despite its appealing features.
Ford Transit Trail build sheet
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: The Established Leader
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has long been considered the benchmark for van conversions. Its reputation for quality, durability, and a wide range of configurations has made it a favorite among both DIY converters and professional van conversion companies. While often perceived as a more expensive option compared to the Transit, the Sprinter’s robust build and premium features justify the investment for many.
Initially, when starting the van search, the Ford Transit seemed like an attractive, more budget-conscious alternative. However, delving deeper into the features and options necessary for a comfortable and capable camper van, the Sprinter’s appeal became increasingly clear. While the base Sprinter cargo van starts at a competitive price point, adding essential features like a high roof and all-wheel drive significantly increases the overall cost. The perception of the Sprinter as expensive is indeed valid, particularly when opting for desired upgrades.
Similar to the Transit Trail, the 2023 AWD Sprinter also faced limited availability due to order bank closures. Finding a 2023 AWD Sprinter that met specific requirements involved extensive searching and communication with dealerships across multiple states. Furthermore, many dealerships were selling Sprinters above the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), sometimes with substantial markups, reflecting the high demand and limited supply.
A side view of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, showcasing its iconic design and robust build quality, popular for camper van conversions.
Head-to-Head: AWD Sprinter vs. Transit Trail
When comparing the 2023 AWD Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the 2023 Ford Transit Trail for van conversions, several key factors come into play. While both vans are excellent platforms, their strengths and weaknesses cater to different priorities and needs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the pros of each van:
2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Advantages
- Diesel Engine Longevity: Sprinter’s diesel engine, while potentially more expensive for maintenance and fuel, is renowned for its longevity. Diesel engines are generally expected to outlast gasoline engines significantly, potentially offsetting higher maintenance costs over the long lifespan of a conversion van. This durability is a major draw for those planning long-term van life adventures.
- Extensive Aftermarket Support: As the long-reigning champion of van conversions, the Sprinter boasts a vast and mature aftermarket ecosystem. A wide array of accessories, parts, and specialized components are readily available, designed specifically for Sprinter conversions. While the Transit’s aftermarket is growing, the Sprinter still holds a considerable advantage in terms of readily available and diverse options.
- Premium Interior Features: The Sprinter offers luxury features that enhance comfort and convenience, particularly desirable for full-time van living. The option for both powered and heated swivel seats is a prime example. In the Transit, choosing swivel seats means forgoing powered and heated functionalities, a compromise not necessary with the Sprinter.
- Superior Ground Clearance: Off-road capability is a crucial consideration for many van converters. Despite the Transit Trail’s increased ride height, the Sprinter still provides 1.3 inches (3.3 cm) more ground clearance. This difference, though seemingly small, can be significant when navigating uneven terrain and accessing more remote campsites.
- Modern Connectivity with USB-C: A minor but forward-thinking detail is the Sprinter’s inclusion of three USB-C ports. As USB-C becomes the industry standard for charging and data transfer, this modern connectivity is a convenient feature for tech-savvy van lifers.
2023 Ford Transit Trail: Advantages
- Larger Fuel Tank Option: Range anxiety can be a concern when exploring remote areas. The Transit Trail offers an optional extended-range 31-gallon fuel tank, surpassing the Sprinter’s 25-gallon capacity. This larger tank provides greater freedom for extended off-grid adventures and reduces the frequency of fuel stops.
- Wider Service Network: Ford’s extensive network of dealerships and service centers across North America is a significant advantage. Finding qualified mechanics for gasoline-powered Transits is generally easier and more accessible than locating Mercedes-Benz dealerships and technicians specialized in diesel Sprinters. This widespread service availability provides peace of mind, especially for travelers venturing far from urban centers.
- Larger Infotainment Screen: In-cabin technology is increasingly important for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information. The Transit Trail offers a larger 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system compared to the Sprinter’s 10-inch screen. Many find the Ford system more visually appealing and user-friendly, although both systems offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- Increased Headroom: For taller individuals, interior headroom is a critical factor in van comfort. The high-roof Ford Transit offers slightly more headroom than the high-roof Sprinter. While both vans provide ample standing room for people around 5’10” (179 cm), those closer to or exceeding 6 feet might find the Transit’s extra headroom more comfortable.
Conclusion: Your Van Conversion Journey
Ultimately, both the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD and the 2023 Ford Transit Trail are excellent choices for van conversions. The decision hinges on individual priorities and intended use. The author’s personal journey led them to choose the Sprinter, primarily due to the appeal of the diesel engine, the slightly superior ground clearance, and the availability of premium features like powered swivel seats. However, the near-equal pricing of the two vans in the current market landscape was a surprising factor, narrowing the decision down to feature preference rather than budget alone.
The “best” van truly depends on your specific needs and vision for your camper van. Consider your priorities: Is long-term engine durability paramount? Is off-road capability a must-have? Or is a larger fuel tank and readily available service network more crucial? Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each van against your personal requirements to make an informed decision and embark on your exciting van conversion adventure.
What are your thoughts? Which van would you choose for your conversion and why? Share your comments and questions below!
