| 2017 Mercedes Benz Sprinter | VS | 2018 Ford Transit |
|---|---|---|
| 66.5 inches | Base Interior Standing Height | 56.9 inches |
| Standard | Color Display Screen | Optional |
| Standard | Daytime Running Lights | Optional |
| Standard | 270-Degree Opening Rear Doors | Feature Not Offered |
| 586.1 cubic feet | Max Cargo Volume | 542.2 cubic feet |
Convenience Features
The new Sprinter and Transit were designed first and foremost for utility. Taking a closer look, however, you'll notice that the Sprinter comes standard with several thoughtful features that are either optional or unavailable for the Transit. Some of these features include:
- Color Display:Â The standard central screen lets drivers manage handsfree calling, audio streaming, USB connection, and MP3 playback via a crisp, user-friendly interface.
- 270-Degree-Opening Rear Doors:Â Compared to the Transit Van's standard 180-degree-opening rear doors, the Sprinter Van's rear doors offer greater flexibility during loading and unloading.
- Interior Standing Height:Â While the regular wheelbase, low-roof Transit Van's cargo height measures in at 56.9 inches, the interior of the 144-inch wheelbase, standard-roof Sprinter Cargo Van is more accommodating at 66.5 inches.
- Daytime Running Lights:Â Daytime running lights-an optional feature for the Transit-increase the Sprinter Van's visibility to others on the road, boosting safety during daytime driving.
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Dimensions & Capacities
When it comes to cargo, payload, and towing capacities, both vans are among the top performers in their segment. Comparing the Ford Transit vs. Sprinter, however, showcases a clear winner:
- Cargo Area:Â In the Transit lineup, the max cargo volume-542.2 cubic feet- belongs to the extended-wheelbase, high-roof Transit Van with its front-passenger seat removed. The extended-wheelbase (170 inches), super-high-roof Sprinter Cargo Van brags a massive 586.1-cubic-foot cargo area and still seats up to three passengers.
- Payload:Â The Transit 350HD (148-inch extended with 3.5L engine) wows with its max payload capacity of 4,650 pounds. The Sprinter Cargo Van with a 170-inch wheelbase, high roof, 11,030-pound GVWR outdoes the Transit with a max payload capacity of 5,133 pounds.
- Towing:Â Depending on the configuration, the Ford Transit can tow up to 7,500 pounds. The Sprinter Cab Chassis matches the Transit Van's max towing capabilities.
| 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van 2500 with Standard-Roof/144-inch Wheelbase | VS | 2018 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van XL |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 pounds | Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds |
| 3,512 pounds | Payload Capacity | 1,270 pounds |
| Standard | Daytime Running Lights | Optional |
| Standard | Heated Rear Window | Optional |
Towing and Cargo Capacities
Built to accommodate your business's needs, the 2018 Ford Transit Connect Van has a peak towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. If you opt for the long wheelbase configuration, you'll enjoy 104.2 cubic feet of cargo space, as well as a payload capacity of 1,270 pounds. On the other hand, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van with a standard roof and 144-inch wheelbase tows up to 5,000 pounds without breaking a sweat. The upfitting-friendly cargo area expands to a whopping 319.1 cubic feet, and can haul as much as 3,512 pounds. While the Transit Connect Van's capabilities max out at its long wheelbase trim, the Sprinter Cargo Van's payload and cargo area capacities only increase as you move up the line.
Passenger Space and Comfort Features
If you're in the business of transportation, chances are you're looking for a vehicle that seats large groups yet doesn't skimp on comfort features. Capable of seating six passengers, the 2018 Ford Transit Connect Titanium Wagon comes equipped with air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo, keyless entry, power windows and locks, privacy glass, and optional navigation. Offering double the seating capacity and all of the above features, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Passenger Van is a shuttling extraordinaire. What's more, the Sprinter Passenger Van includes a variety of standard and optional features not available on the Transit Connect Wagon, including:
- 5.8-inch color display screen
- Sliding side door
- Tow hooks
- Optional trip computer
- Optional universal garage door opener
Standard and Optional Safety Features
As a commercial vehicle, the 2018 Ford Transit Connect keeps the safety of you, your passengers, and cargo in mind. For enhanced protection, the Transit Connect Vans and Wagons feature anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, a rack-and-pinion steering system, and an anti-theft system. As is typical of Mercedes-Benz, the Sprinter Vans cut no corners when it comes to safety. In addition to the above features, the Sprinter tacks on standard Daytime Running Lamps and a heated rear window. The Sprinter also offers the following optional safety systems - all of which are unavailable for the Transit Connect:
- Bi-Xenon headlamps with Highbeam Assist
- Headlamp cleaning system
- Mud and snow tires
- Lane Keeping Assist
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