If you’ve got people and passengers to move, commercial vans like the 2021 Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are always coming up with innovative new ways to help you get the job done. Which model should you choose? Our comparison guide will help you get to know each of these commercial vans.
Best Bottom Line: 2021 Ford Transit
Both commercial vans come in a wide variety of body styles, with various roof heights and wheelbase lengths. Each also offers cargo or passenger configurations, so you can either transport business supplies or ferry people around town.
However, it’s the 2021 Ford Transit that gives you the best deal on a commercial hauler. Its MSRP range starts at $35,020 and ranges upwards of $51,800, depending on configuration and equipment. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is comparatively more expensive, ranging from $36,355 to $57,450.
Powerful Performance: 2021 Ford Transit
On the road, the Ford Transit feels smooth and secure with plenty of power on tap for hauling heavy loads. Choose between a 3.5-liter V6 (275 horsepower, 262 pound-feet of torque) and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine (310 hp, 400 lb-ft). Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that powers the rear wheels. All-wheel drive is also available, perfect for maintaining precision on a slippery road.
For its size, the Mercedes-Benz is a little underpowered. Its base engine is a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (188 hp, 258 lb-ft). However, shoppers can — and should — consider two optional engines. A new turbo 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder (161 hp, 266 lb-ft) is available. Or, Sprinters with heftier weight ratings come with the turbo 3.0-liter diesel V6 (188 hp, 325 lb-ft).
Maximum Cargo Space: 2021 Ford Transit
The Ford Transit will also help you haul a few extra boxes. With the long wheelbase and high roof, the Transit provides up to 536.4 cubic feet of cargo space. In the Sprinter cargo van’s roomiest configuration, it offers up to 532.6 cubes.
Maximum Passenger Space: It’s a Tie!
Both the 2021 Ford Transit and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offer a variety of seating arrangements. Thanks to their height, length, and width options, you can configure either passenger van to suit up to 15 passengers. You can outfit the Transit to seat 2, 5, 8, 10, 12, 14 or 15 people, and you can arrange the Sprinter to offer up to 2, 5, 12, or 15 seats.
Choose Your Cargo Van
In the end, the 2021 Ford Transit gives you more features at a lower price, and isn’t that what’s best for business? Whether you need to haul lots of passengers or cargo, choosing the Transit will pay off in the end.