Cargo Van Comparison

GMC Savana
The GMC Savana is related to the more popular Chevrolet Express van. Both vans are solidly built with few changes over the years. The GMC Savana is available in half-ton (1500) and one ton (3500) configurations. The extended-wheelbase version (155-inch) is available only on the 3500. The LS trim level is the one geared for small business or fleet service.

All Savanas (2010) come with a V8 engine. The 1500 is powered by a 5.3-liter V8 that produces 295 horsepower. The 3500 is equipped with a 6.0-liter V8 that generates 300 hp. GMC does offer all-wheel drive for the 1500 but most Savanas are rear-wheel drive only. Both models use a four-speed automatic transmission.

The interior of the Savana is functional and efficient befitting is workhorse reputation. Newer models contain upgrades in materials and safety features such as air bags but generally, the look of these vans has changed little over the years. In addition to the standard rear doors, a sliding passenger side door or a 60/40 split drivers-side rear door can be added for easier access to the cargo area. These are the most popular carpet cleaning vans.

FORD E-Series
The Ford Econoline or E-Series van is a similar workhorse vehicle that has undergone little change over the years. Most customers like it that way as they customize these vans for their business e.g. TV news crews, car shuttles, etc. This has been the #1 selling full-size van since 1980.

These vans are available in E-150 and the heavy-duty E-250 and E-350 models. The base E-150 model is available in only standard length, while the E-250 comes in two lengths, regular (236 cubic feet of interior space) and E-250 Extended (275 cubic feet). The E-350 Super Duty van also comes in both vehicle lengths.

There are four engine options available for 2010. The standard models come with a rather weak 4.6 liter V8 with 225 hp or a 5.4 liter V8 that produces 225 hp. Upgrades are available to a 6.8 liter with 305 hp or a 6.0 liter Power Stroke turbo diesel the produces 235 hp.

The basic interior is rather sparse but can be equipped with a variety of options to suit most customers. It comes with standard swinging side doors although sliding doors are available.

DODGE Sprinter
The Dodge Sprinter is a commercial van produced by Daimler that is the market leader in its segment in Europe, and is now sold in the U.S. as the Dodge Sprinter. The Sprinter is new direction for cargo vans with a unique combination of fuel efficiency and functional interior design. Redesigned for 2007, the new Sprinter features a longer, wider, taller body with more cargo space.
The two base models are the 2500 and the 3500. Both are available with two wheelbase offerings—144 inches or 170 inches. An extended version is also offered on the 170-inch wheelbase with a 15-inch longer rear overhang. Starting in 2009, the Sprinter was no longer offered with a gasoline engine instead using a 3.0 liter turbo diesel producing 154 hp. This is the only engine option.

The interior is identical to the Mercedes-Benz version sold around the world. It’s modern control layout is a definite step up from the standard cargo vans. Also the build quality is much better than competitors with enough seat and steering column options to insure a comfortable drive.

The real difference in this van is the amount of cargo space and options for van height. The optional 170 inch wheelbase is longer than what Ford or GMC can offer. It also has the unique feature of offering different roof heights. While the standard Ford or GMC has a 4.5’ roof, the Sprinter can come with a high-roof option of  approx. 6.3’ or a Mega-Roof option of  7 feet.