Scotty - Long time viewer here in PA. I run a field service group and we are shopping for Cargo Vans. The previous manager bought 1 Turkish made Ram Promaster City's that has been nothing but nightmares. (It's engine has been replaced TWICE in the first 3 years, it has about 60k miles on it!).
I am expanding our van fleet and will soon be buying up to a dozen vans. I am entertaining Ford Transits and Mercedes Sprinter Vans. We anticipate cargo to be around 2500lbs. The gas engine Mercedes is enticing, but it's a 4cyl 2lt engine, puny. I always remember you saying to avoid overstressing small engines, which is what I fear the Mercedes 2500 does (It has a cargo capacity of over 4,000lbs). Should I opt for a diesel Mercedes or go for the Ford Transits instead?
The Ford Transit will likely have less maintenance costs over time. They are more popular (and domestic) so parts will likely even be cheaper in the event that you need something fixed. They have more reliable engines ( I would opt for the NA version not the turbo) and seem to have a higher cargo capacity; also, from what I found they are a bit cheaper. Go with the Ford in my opinion. Definitely more reliable.
