The RAM ProMaster and Mercedes Sprinter are nearly identical in most aspects crucial for Class B living,
including interior space, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability.
The Sprinter's main selling point is its unusually high ground clearance (up to 9.5 inches vs ProMaster's 6.9 inches) and available all-wheel drive. While this makes it a go-to for off-road enthusiasts, it also increases the price tag by 20–30%.
However, the ProMaster provides a stronger value in almost every other metric that matters for day-to-day van life; particularly when it comes to parts availability and conversion-ready interior space. (The boxed-out interior makes a cleaner fit for appliances and furnishings).
The RAM ProMaster and Mercedes Sprinter offer distinct advantages in their specifications. The ProMaster, with its front-wheel drive and lower ground clearance, is optimized for urban and light off-road use. It offers impressive cargo space and payload capacity for its size, making it an excellent choice for van conversions focused on maximizing interior living space.
The Sprinter, available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, boasts superior ground clearance and towing capacity. Its diesel engine option provides better fuel efficiency for long-distance travel, albeit at a higher initial and maintenance cost. The Sprinter's larger size options and higher payload capacity make it suitable for more extensive builds and heavier loads.
Both vans offer comparable warranties, but the Sprinter's diesel engine warranty extends to 100,000 miles. In terms of safety, the Sprinter edges ahead with more advanced standard features, though both can be equipped with modern driver assistance technologies.
The RAM ProMaster offers a more budget-friendly entry point, with base models starting around $38,000 compared to the Sprinter's $45,000 starting price. This initial price difference becomes more pronounced when considering conversion costs. ProMaster conversions typically range from $30,000 to $80,000, while Sprinter conversions can run from $50,000 to $150,000 or more for luxury builds.
Financing options are available for both vehicles, with monthly payments for a converted ProMaster generally falling between $800 and $1,500, while a Sprinter might range from $1,000 to $2,500 or higher. Over a five-year period, the total cost of ownership for a ProMaster-based camper van is estimated at $80,000 to $150,000, whereas a Sprinter-based van could cost between $120,000 and $250,000.
It's important to note that Sprinters tend to have higher maintenance costs, especially for diesel models. However, they also typically retain their value better, which can offset some of the higher upfront and ongoing costs if you plan to sell in the future. The ProMaster, while having a lower resale value, offers significant savings over time, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious van lifers.
Certainly. Here's the pros/cons and FAQ section for the RAM ProMaster vs Mercedes Sprinter comparison:
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