Sprinter 144 vs. 170 vs. Ford Transit: The Ultimate Adventure Van Showdown
Sprinter 144 vs. 170 vs. Ford Transit: The Ultimate Adventure Van Showdown
At Engine 13 Overland, we’re often asked, “What’s the best van to start an adventure build on?” It’s a fair question—and one that deserves more than a quick answer. Whether you’re dreaming of a compact weekend warrior or a full-time off-grid home on wheels, your choice of chassis sets the tone for everything that follows.
We’ve built on Sprinters, Transits, and Promasters. But over years of hands-on experience, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter consistently proves to be the best choice—not just for capability or aesthetics, but for total cost of ownership (TCO) over the long haul.
Let’s break down the top contenders—Sprinter 144, Sprinter 170, and Ford Transit—and explore what really matters when your “home” is on four wheels.
The Contenders: Quick Overview
Sprinter 144 (RWD / AWD / 4x4)
Wheelbase: 144 inches
Overall Length: ~19.5 ft
Turning Radius: Tight for its size
Why It Rocks: Arguably the most versatile van on the market. It fits in standard parking spots, can off-road like a beast (especially in 4x4/AWD), and offers enough space for a comfortable build-out without feeling like a bus.
Sprinter 170 (RWD / AWD / 4x4)
Wheelbase: 170 inches
Overall Length: ~22 ft
Turning Radius: Wider, more like a small RV
Why It Rocks: The 170 gives you serious square footage. Perfect for full-timers, couples, or anyone who wants designated zones (bed, kitchen, workstation, garage). It’s a blank canvas with endless possibilities.
Ford Transit (RWD / AWD)
Wheelbase Options: 130” or 148” (extended available)
Roof Heights: Low, medium, high
Why It Rocks: Affordable, easy to find, and serviceable anywhere. If your travels are mainly on pavement and you’re watching your build budget, the Transit checks a lot of boxes.
Build Quality and Ride
The Sprinter was born from the commercial world. Delivery fleets, ambulances, shuttle vans—Sprinters are expected to work hard and last long. That DNA carries over to the adventure world. The chassis feels solid. The ride quality is smoother, especially over rough terrain. The noise insulation is better. Everything feels like it was built to last.
Transits, while reliable, are lighter-duty in their construction. You’ll often notice more road noise, and the ride can feel stiffer, especially once your build-out is complete. Ford’s AWD system is improving, but it’s still playing catch-up with Mercedes in terms of performance in truly rugged environments.
Bottom line: For serious builds and serious use, Sprinter’s premium materials and refined engineering win the day.
Powertrain and Fuel Economy
Sprinters offer turbocharged diesel engines that are built for longevity. Paired with a 7G-Tronic or 9G-Tronic transmission (depending on year/model), they deliver torque exactly where you need it—especially when climbing passes or towing gear.
Transit vans come with gas engines (and some newer EcoBoost turbo models). While those offer solid horsepower and are easy to service, gas engines can fall short in fuel economy and lifespan under heavy loads.
Real-World Numbers:
Sprinter 144 Diesel: ~18–22 MPG
Sprinter 170 Diesel: ~16–20 MPG
Transit EcoBoost: ~13–17 MPG (build-dependent)
Over 5 years and tens of thousands of miles, that MPG difference saves thousands in fuel—not to mention fewer fill-ups when you’re deep in the wilderness.
Off-Road Capability
Sprinter’s AWD system (and the older 4x4 models) has earned its reputation. With better ground clearance, low-end torque, and traction systems designed for variable conditions, it handles snow, mud, gravel, and steep inclines with confidence.
Transit AWD is improving but still more suited for inclement weather than true off-roading. Ground clearance is lower, and aftermarket support (lifts, bumpers, skid plates, etc.) is more limited.
If your travels will take you beyond the pavement, Sprinter is the only real choice.
Interior Build Space
Sprinter 144
Best For: Solo travelers, couples, part-timers
Why: It strikes the perfect balance between livability and maneuverability. You can fit a queen bed sideways (with flares), a galley kitchen, and even a compact indoor shower—to say nothing of stealthy parking in cities.
Sprinter 170
Best For: Full-timers, remote workers, families
Why: The extra length opens up possibilities. Want a fixed bed + indoor shower + office + garage? This is your rig. It’s essentially a tiny home on wheels.
Ford Transit
Best For: Budget-conscious builders, road trippers
Why: Tall roof and wide interior are great for standing room and side-to-side sleeping. However, wheel well placement and curved walls can create design challenges.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Let’s talk real dollars. Yes, the Sprinter costs more up front—but over five years of ownership, the math tells a different story.
Add it all up, and while the Transit seems cheaper at first, it ends up costing more in fuel, depreciation, and time in the shop. Sprinters, when properly maintained, go the distance—literally.
Aftermarket and Support
One more reason Sprinters dominate the overland space? Community and aftermarket support.
Whether you’re looking for a snorkel kit, suspension upgrade, diesel heater integration, or modular cabinetry—there are more solutions (and more online support) for Sprinters than any other van.
Engine 13 is a Sprinter specialist for a reason: we can customize faster, smarter, and with more precision. We’ve dialed in layout options for both 144 and 170s that optimize storage, power systems, and livability.
The Verdict
There’s no wrong choice—just the one that fits your life, travel style, and budget. The only right choice is getting a van and starting your adventures.
Choose the Sprinter 144 if:
You want off-grid access and city maneuverability.
You prefer fewer systems and a simpler, efficient layout.
You care about resale value and fuel economy.
Choose the Sprinter 170 if:
You’re going full-time or need more living space.
You want to build a feature-rich interior with all the comforts of home.
You’re serious about adventure and long-haul ownership.
Choose the Transit if:
You’re watching your initial spend closely.
You’ll be traveling mainly on roads in temperate climates.
You want easier access to parts and service nationwide.
Final Thoughts from the Road
At Engine 13, we don’t just build vans—we live and travel in them. We’ve put these rigs through mountain passes, desert heat, East Coast winters, and Baja beach sand. And time and time again, the Sprinter rises above.
It’s not the cheapest option. But if you’re building for real adventure, real durability, and real long-term value—the Sprinter is worth every dime.
Thinking about a build? We’d love to help you spec your van, plan your layout, and bring your vision to life. Contact us here or shoot us a DM on Instagram @engine.13.