Choosing the right van…
Choosing the right van for your campervan conversion is an important decision, as it will be your home on wheels and will need to meet your specific needs and preferences. There are a few key factors to consider when making this choice, including the size and layout of the van, the fuel efficiency and performance of the vehicle, and the overall cost. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of buying a brand new vans, like the Sprinter or Transit, as well as the benefits of buying a used Sprinter or Transit. Finally, we will also discuss the option of purchasing a used Econoline or Express in good condition for a lower price. Depending on your needs, these can be an awesome and super affordable choice.
One of the main benefits of buying a brand new Sprinter or Transit is that you have the opportunity to customize the van to your exact specifications. With a new van, you can choose the size, layout, and features that best suit your needs, such as a high roof for standing room, a long wheelbase for extra storage space, or a diesel engine for better fuel efficiency. In addition, a brand new van will come with a full warranty, which can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repairs.
Another benefit of buying a brand new Sprinter or Transit is that you can take advantage of the latest technology and safety features. These vans often come equipped with advanced driver assist systems, such as lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control, as well as state-of-the-art infotainment systems with touchscreen displays and Bluetooth connectivity. These features can make your van more comfortable, convenient, and safe to drive.
However, buying a brand new Sprinter or Transit can also be a significant financial investment, as these vans can be quite expensive. In addition, the value of a brand new van tends to depreciate quickly, meaning that it will likely lose a significant portion of its value in the first few years of ownership. This can be a concern for those who are looking to sell or trade in their van in the future.
On the other hand, buying a used Sprinter or Transit can be a more budget-friendly option, as these vans tend to be less expensive than brand new models. In addition, the value of a used van tends to depreciate more slowly, so you may be able to sell or trade in your van for a better price in the future. With a used van, you also have the opportunity to purchase a model that is a few years older, which can give you access to more advanced features and technologies at a lower price point.
However, there are also some risks associated with buying a used van. It is important to thoroughly inspect the van and have it checked by a mechanic before making a purchase to ensure that it is in good condition and does not have any hidden issues. In addition, a used van may not come with a warranty, so you may be responsible for covering the cost of any repairs or maintenance. The main things to avoid on used vehicles are:
rusted frames and suspension components
major engine + transmission leaks
major body damage (anything larger than fist)
noticeable water damage on interior (can be a big indicator of hidden rust)
salvage/rebuilt titles
Side note, a salvage or rebuilt title is NOT a death warrant for a vehicle. Often, minor damage can be the cause for one of these titles, and would not have any impact of the vehicles performance or safety. You can save a very large amount of money purchasing one of these because most people are scared of them. That being said, plan to keep the van forever with one of these titles, or plan to take a lot longer to sell.
Finally, another option to consider (and our favorite option) is purchasing a used Ford Econoline or Chevy Express van in good condition for a lower price. These vans are often more affordable than Sprinters or Transits and can be a good option for those on a tight budget. They’ve been made for decades, which means you can find older vans at the bottom of their depreciation curve, which means that they won’t depreciate any further, securing your initial investment. The parts are in ample supply, and every mechanic has worked on them, and repairs and replacements are not anywhere near as daunting as similar work on newer vehicles. However, it is important to keep in mind that these vans may not be as fuel efficient or have as many advanced features as newer models. Even with reduced fuel economy, these vans can ultimately still be the most affordable option over the campervan’s lifespan. In addition, if a used Econoline or Express has extremely high mileage, you may need to invest in a new engine or transmission, they can be replaced much more affordably and quickly than newer vehicles that have more complicated systems, and less supply, making repairs take longer and cost more.
In conclusion, choosing the right van for your campervan conversion is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs and budget. We typically recommend that someone determine their overall budget (vehicle + build) first, as this is the most limiting factor for every build. Once you have a budget, you can start shopping for the cost of features you want in your van. Once you’ve completed that, the leftover money can be allocated to purchasing your vehicle, or you can adjust your answers from the previous questions to find the perfect fit. Either way, choosing the right van is one of the most important decisions you can make when planning for your custom campervan.