The big three

After coming to the realization that the Solis Pocket would not work for us, primarily due to the inability to run the air conditioner without shore power, we moved on. But where next? As we also learned that the Ram Promaster was FWD, we investigated what other options offered 4×4 or AWD. That is where we discovered “the big 3” in the world of camper van conversions:

• Ram ProMaster
• Ford Transit
• Mercedes Sprinter

Model specifics

The details below are a general summary with approximate measurements – specifics will change with model year and conversions. Due to our preferences, we focused on shorter lengths and high roof if multiple lengths/heights were available.

	Ram ProMaster	Ford Transit	Mercedes Sprinter
Model	2024 2500 Cargo	2024 Cargo	2024 2500 Cargo
Drivetrain	FWD	RWD/AWD	RWD/AWD
Engine	3.6L V6	3.5L V6	2.0L 4 cylinder HO
Exterior Length	213″ (18 feet)	235″ (19.5 feet)	233.5 (19.5 feet)
Exterior Height	103″ (8.5 feet)	109″ (9 feet)	111″ (9 feet)
Fuel type	Gasoline	Gasoline	Diesel
Base cost	$ (~$50k)	$$ (~$51k)	$$$ (~$56k)
AWD addition	N/A	$4,190	$6,700

Our takeaways

• Length: ProMaster
  We’re hoping for a van that is easy to drive, easy to park, and know that the shorter option is going to be the best for us.
  
  
• Drivetrain: Transit and Sprinter
  Both of these are available in AWD. At this point, we haven’t identified it as an absolute necessity, but knowing that the option is available is a point in favor of these options.
  
  
• Fuel type: ProMaster and Transit
  Not a significant requirement, certainly, but gasoline prices are lower than diesel prices. In addition, we’ve definitely encountered gas stations that do not carry diesel.
  
  
• Cost: ProMaster
  The least expensive option plus relatively inexpensive to maintain.

We briefly explored additional ProMaster options – namely in the Winnebago line – but didn’t identify any that appealed to us. The Solis (larger version) did not have the open feel of the Pocket due to the wet bath, and it is also on the longer wheelbase. From here, we decided it was time to investigate the Ford Transit a bit more.