Is anyone using a Dodge Sprinter for a installation, service, or delivery vehicle?

I have heard that the Sprinter gets excellent mileage and it has a huge cargo area. It looks like a big box to drive, but the space sure looks handy. If not a Sprinter, what's a good vehicle for an installation crew? I have been using mini-vans, but sometimes they are a little cramped.

One of the primary reasons for the Sprinter is the tax write-0ff for this year. On a vehicle over 6000lbs., you can write off the first $25K 100% in 2004, plus 50% of the next $10K. I heard this is the last year that this deduction will be allowed.

I would appreciate any input on the Sprinter or other good choices. What's working well for you?

Hey, i did a thread on the sprinter. We are in eventually going to get one now. Great chose i think its 24 mpg. i don't remember. My uncle has a fleet of them for his oil/plumbing company they love them. Just one prob is they don't move very fast.

Lonny

I was in Germany on the autobahn doing 100mph with a Sprinter packed full of folks - not fast enough? :)

The MB diesels are about torque, not high revs, so driving takes a while to get used to. Acceleration whe fully loaded is at least on par with an Express or Econoline with the smaller V8's and outruns the 6 cyls pretty handily.

The fuel economy is the real reason that the Sprinter outshines either of those options these days, that and the reliability if you plan to keep them in the fleet for the long term.

PS. If you are in a metro area and have to deal with parking garages, be aware that the tall version usually WILL NOT fit and your crews working in the city will spend half their day looking for street parking.

the is the last year of the 30,000lb vehicle deduction, so if you're going to get one, you have three weeks!

I'm negotiating with the Army on a low mileage M1A Abrahms; does it have to be a new vehicle? :-)

I wouldn't argue with you!!!

That should take care of any "street parking"problems as well!!

Maybe my reference is a little obscure; the 30,000 lb. entry was obviously a typo......

I was just playing the typo as well :-)

Thanks for your input, guys. Does anyone know whether the model with the regular roof fits into parking garages? And, does the regular-height roof still provide more cargo space than the Express, Savana, or Econoline?

As for the question about new versus used, I believe the rule applies either way.

I have heard that the Sprinter makes the driver somewhat tired pre-maturely becuase the steering wheel is too vertical. Any input?

For you guys who have Chevys, Fords, or Dodge Vans, how is the gas mileage?

I rented an Express once with an 8-cylinder engine, which drove like a tall Caddilac, but I used a lot of gas. Could have been my heavy foot. Is 20mpg feasible?

One more thing, the Sprinter looks like it's good for a lot of sign space-- great advertising. I think the fact that it looks a little different also commands some attention.

,

We have 2 3500 Expresses and I drive a Savana 3500 the gas mileage in any of the three with Atlanta traffic is about 14 mpg, with normal driving (ie. no lead foots). They hold up well also minor maintenance and 1 express made it to 230K Miles and the other is rolling past 140K. Savana is at 57K and change the oil and put some new tires on them and they keep going.

Looked at Sprinters may be our next purchase love the fact they get such great gas milage, but what is not going to when its a Diesel. Very Very Roomy compared to our other 3 vans. IMHO rolling warehouse and workshop all in one. Great headroom for standing up in and hauling tall equipment. I like em!