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Are you looking for an epic campervan? Maybe one that will take you anywhere you want to go with reliability and ease? If so, you’ve probably looked into Sprinter camper vans. After all, they’re extremely popular for camper van builds, and nearly all high-end setups are built on a Sprinter chassis. But why are they so expensive?
We answer this age-old question by exploring everything there is to know about Sprinter camper vans, including why they’re popular, whether or not they’re reliable, and if the high price-point is really worth it. Let’s begin.
What Is a Sprinter Camper Van?
A Sprinter camper van is a luxury camping van built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Chassis. And while there are different variations of Sprinters out there, they all have one thing in common — a high price point.
How Much Is a Mercedes Sprinter Camper Van?
To understand price points, we first need to break down the three types of Sprinter vans: the Cargo Van, the Crew Van, and the Passenger Van. These options can be further narrowed down to different packages, fuel options (i.e., diesel vs. gas), wheelbases, and safety features.
Starting at $39,945, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van is the cheapest of the three types of Sprinter vans. The Crew Van will cost you $45,095, while the Passenger Van sits at $46,995. Keep in mind that this is just the cost of the vehicle itself – it doesn’t include the actual campervan build.
You’ll be able to save money if you take on the camper van build yourself, but there are plenty of companies who’ve done the hard part for you. For example, the Winnebago Revel is a popular off-grid campervan that uses a four-wheel driver Sprinter Cargo Van as its base. But to afford this luxury campervan, you’ll have to shell out a whopping $202,401, and that doesn’t include any add-ons.
Pro Tip: Check out the best camper vans for traveling this year.
Why Are Sprinter Camper Vans So Expensive?
Sprinter Camper Vans have gained their high price point for several reasons. The first reason is name recognition. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of Mercedes-Benz.
Over time, this brand has become increasingly synonymous with luxury and quality, and whether or not they’ve actually earned these accolades is beside the point.
After all, they do provide top-notch vehicles to back up their high prices. Indeed, there is a reason why so many RV and camper van companies use their chassis for van builds.
They’re robust, well-built, and long-lasting. When one sees a Sprinter Van, the last word that comes to mind is “cheap.” When you buy one, you expect it to take you on adventures for years to come with little headache.
The second factor that adds to the Sprinter camper van’s high price is demand. No doubt, these vehicles are popular and the higher the demand is, the more Mercedes can charge for it. Sometimes it just comes down to simple economics.
Why Are Sprinter Vans So Popular?
So, why are Sprinter vans so popular? Really, it’s because of all the reasons we listed above. They’re iconic with an excellent reputation. They have the quality to back it up, and there’s a huge demand.
Think about this; if you see everyone walking around with a particular shoe brand, you’re probably going to wonder why they’re so popular. And after some good marketing on the company’s part, you might even start to want a pair yourself.
The same thing happens with camper vans.
Pro Tip: Have you seen these vans turned amazing RVs by Boho Camper Vans?
Are Sprinter Vans Expensive to Maintain?
According to CarEdge.com, the average Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van will require approximately $18,634 in maintenance and repairs during the first decade of its life. This is slightly better than other luxury full-sized vans, but it’s not cheap by any means.
Keep in mind that the cost of repairs will increase each year as the van gets older, so the next 10 years will cost you even more (assuming you keep it that long).
Are Sprinters Reliable?
If there’s one thing Sprinters are famous for, it’s their reliability. They’re an excellent vehicle to get lost in, and most people with Sprinter camper vans feel confident traveling deep into the wilderness with little cell signal, simply because they know their vehicle will last.
More specifically, most Sprinter vans (if taken care of properly) can easily make it 300,000 miles. There are even Sprinter vans on the road with over 500,000 miles. So, if you do purchase one of these camper vans, you can expect it to last you decades (as long as it doesn’t rust out beforehand).
What Are the Best Years for Sprinter Vans?
If you’re in the market for a used Sprinter Van, you’re probably wondering which year is best. Even just a quick Google search will tell you how popular 2006 Sprinter Vans are, but if you’re looking for something a little newer, the 2010 and 2012 models are hailed for their spaciousness and reliability.
After 2019, you have the option of the 4500 configuration – although these newer vans will be a bit more expensive.
Is a Sprinter Van Worth It?
Whether or not a Sprinter Van is worth the high price depends entirely on who you ask. The Mercedes-Benz brand name definitely gives it a certain level of luxury (which can help with the resale value), and the reliability is unmatched.
However, will you be able to save thousands of dollars just by purchasing a rival camper van (such as the Ram Promaster or Ford Transit)? Probably.
Really, it’s all about weighing your options and choosing the camper van that’s most in line with your budget, values, and style of travel.
Do you think a Sprinter camper van is worth it? Let us know in the comments below!
You missed the biggest issue causing the demand. Amazon. They have locked up every build slot they can for their delivery contractors. The public then has to fight for the few remaining slots. Way more than Mercedes quality and or reputation, it’s lack of availability causing the increased prices.
I own a Winnebago Revel. Love it for its compact size, maneuverability, 4 wheel drive and self substaining. Driving remote roads, snow, mud it’s priceless. Find a quiet place to park and no camping fees. Diesel is efficient (relatively speaking) averaging 17.6 mpg. Very reliable. Up grade to a 40 gallon tank giving you a 700 +/- driving rang you can shop for fuel savings. Per the cost of a new Winnebago Revel, the article list retail. Should be able to get into a new van for 165 to 170. Less if patient and have time for delivery. May not be for everybody, 2 people are comfortable if you learn to organize.