A new and more extensive 2014 Cargo Van Comparison is available!
Only a few popular cargo van models are utilized for a RV conversion. The massive shift in the American automobile industry left us with the disappearance of the Dodge B-Series and a shaky start of the Dodge/MB Sprinter. The current replacement of the Ford E-Series by the new Ford Transit in 2013 will add to the buyers uncertainty. We can still count on the proven Chevy Express.
Popular models
| Chevy Express 2500 | Ford E-Series E-250 | MB Sprinter | Ford Transit ¹ ² | Dodge B-Series B-250 ³ | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| wheelbase | 135” | 155” | 138” | 144” | 170” | 130” | 148” | 128” | |
| overall width | 79.2” | 79.4” | 79.7” | 77.7” | 79.8” | ||||
| overall length | 224” | 244” | 217” | 236” | 233” | 273” | 206” | 224” | 205” |
| overall height | 81.5” | 82″ | 85” | 96.3/107.5″ | 81.4” | 94.4” | 79.9” | ||
| cargo volume/ft³ | 270 | 314 | 279 | 319 | 318 | 494 | – | 247 | |
| width between wheelhousing | 52.7” | 52.5” | 53.1” | 54.7” | 50” | ||||
| curb weight/lbs | 5291 | 5505 | 5230 | 5376 | 5081 | 5545 | 4004 | 4642 | – |
| gvwr/lbs | 8600 | 9500 | 8550 | 6215 | 7810 | 6400 | |||
| gcwr/lbs | 13000 | – | 13550 | 11495 | 12100 | – | |||
| max.payload/lbs | 3309 | 3095 | 3630 | 3480 | 3469 | 3005 | 2211 | 3168 | – |
| max.trailering capacity/lbs | 10000 | 10000 | 5000 | 4400 | 6050 | – | |||
| est. fuel economy | 15/20 mpg | 12/16 mpg | -/22 mpg | 32 mpg | 12/17 mpg | ||||
| msrp | 26,590 | 28,450 | 27,985 | 29,340 | 35,995 | 40,990 | n/a | n/a | |
¹launch in 2013 ²indicative values based on Australian data ³production ended 2003
Considerations
Besides the fact that the Ford Econoline will be phased out, the relatively short wheelbase on the extended version makes the Chevy Express a better choice for a comfortable ride if you have the need for a longer version.
The new cargo vans that are coming to the market, like the MB Sprinter and the 2013 Ford Transit offer elevated roof lines with standing room interiors. No need for after-market Hi-Top installation. However, be aware that these vehicles don’t fit in your standard 7Ft high garage.
The mileage rating is improving on the new models, but probably will be largely offset by higher retail prices; only with high annual mileage and long term ownership, this should be a consideration. These lower fuel consumption vans, like the new 2013 Ford Transit, achieve that by lowering their overall weight and at the same time, their payload capacity.