Ready to shift gears? Discover whether the Sprinter or Transit will be the real MVP of your fleet. One of these vans might just drive your business forward.
When your lifestyle or business depends on staying mobile and efficient, your commercial van isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a reflection of your brand and a tool your team depends on every day. Whether you’re transporting tools, passengers, or inventory, choosing the right van can elevate your business’s efficiency and reputation.
Two of the most trusted names in commercial mobility? The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and the Ford Transit. Both offer versatility and cargo capability, but if you’re aiming to combine performance with premium engineering, there are key differences to know.
Let’s explore how the Sprinter and Transit compare so you can make the best investment for your business.
When comparing the Sprinter vs. Transit, cargo and payload capacity are often the most important considerations. Both vans offer multiple roof heights and body lengths. And if you’re carrying heavy tools, construction materials, or large equipment, payload capacity determines how much weight your vehicle can safely carry without risking damage or affecting performance.
Here’s how these two vehicles stack up with regard to space and payload.
With up to 533 cu. ft. of cargo space, the Sprinter offers multiple body lengths, roof heights, and wheelbase options built to adapt to your business. Whether you’re upfitting for HVAC, electrical work, or passenger transport, the Sprinter gives you room to grow.
But it’s not just about space—it’s also about strength. The Sprinter boasts a payload capacity of up to 6,812 lbs, making it ideal for heavy equipment, commercial deliveries, or large upfits.
The Transit edges slightly ahead on cargo volume with up to 536.4 cu. ft., but lags behind with a maximum payload of around 5,110 lbs. It’s a practical solution for lighter commercial needs or urban delivery routes, but may fall short for businesses requiring more power and durability.
Need shelves? Ladder racks? Seating for 15? Whether you’re delivering parcels, transporting clients, or outfitting a mobile workshop, both vans offer excellent upfitting potential.
Engineered for versatility, the Sprinter is the van of choice for custom commercial builds, from luxury shuttles and mobile offices to work-ready cargo configurations. Whether you’re building out a command center or simply need ladder racks and shelving, the Sprinter offers factory-backed solutions and seamless integration.
The Transit supports a wide range of upfits and is widely used in general trades and last-mile delivery. While it’s configurable, it’s often better suited for less specialized builds and lighter-duty commercial applications.
Under the hood, both vehicles offer multiple engine options, but the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter stands out for its available diesel powertrains and 4×4 capability.
Choose between a 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel or gas-powered engine. Diesel delivers the torque needed for long hauls, mountainous terrain, or heavy loads, while also offering superior fuel efficiency. Add in available 4×4 capability, and the Sprinter is ready for just about any challenge.
The Ford Transit offers a range of engines, including a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 that delivers excellent power and performance. The Transit is also available with a 3.5L V6 engine, making it a solid choice for businesses that need a balance of power and efficiency. While it doesn’t match the Sprinter’s torque or diesel option (Transit diesel options were discontinued), the Transit’s engine lineup is still very capable for many business needs.
Both the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter have proven track records in commercial fleets across a wide range of industries.
The Sprinter has earned a reputation for long-term durability, particularly in high-mileage, heavy-use applications. Its available diesel engine tends to offer better fuel economy and more torque for demanding jobs. While maintenance costs can be higher, service intervals are typically longer, and well-maintained Sprinters often reach 200,000+ miles with strong resale value.
The Transit is praised for its ease of service and wide availability of parts. Ford’s dealer network ensures that maintenance is accessible and relatively quick, which helps minimize downtime. Transits have a solid reputation for reliability in urban or moderate-load fleets, and many exceed 150,000 miles with consistent upkeep.
Ultimately, if you prioritize service convenience and lower upfront maintenance costs, the Transit may be the better fit. If your business values extended longevity and performance under heavy workloads, the Sprinter may offer more long-term value.
Cost is always a consideration, especially for small businesses. You want a vehicle that fits your budget while offering the best value in the long run.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter typically costs more upfront (about $50K+ for 2025 base models) and can experience higher maintenance costs than the Transit due to its diesel engine and specialized components. However, it offers long-term value through durability, longevity, performance, fuel efficiency, and resale value, often making it a long-term, cost-effective option.
The Ford Transit’s base models generally have a lower starting price of around $47K, making it a more budget-friendly option for businesses that need a reliable vehicle quickly. Its affordability, coupled with its solid performance and customizable features, makes it a great choice for businesses that need to keep initial costs down.
Both vans offer strong value, just in different ways. If you’re focused on longevity, customization, and capability, the Sprinter delivers a higher return. If budget and simplicity are key, the Transit offers solid utility at a lower starting cost.
Your team spends long hours on the road—comfort, safety, and connectivity matter. Both the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are equipped with advanced technology to keep your drivers connected, informed, and secure.
Inside the cabin, the Sprinter raises the bar with its MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, which comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display and offers voice recognition, navigation, and mobile device integration.
In terms of safety, the Sprinter comes standard with advanced features like Active Brake Assist, which helps prevent rear-end collisions by automatically applying the brakes if necessary. Other available features include:
The Ford Transit comes with optional SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 infotainment systems, which offer easy smartphone integration, navigation, hands-free communication, and more for a seamless, intuitive driving experience. However, to benefit from these systems, you’ll need to upgrade most trims from standard infotainment features like the more basic 4-inch display with AM/FM radio, Bluetooth®, and USB ports. For businesses with fleets, Ford Pro™ Telematics is available to manage and monitor your fleet’s performance remotely.
For safety, some Ford Co-Pilot360™ features are standard, including pre- and post-collision braking. Other safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage are optional if you’d like to upgrade, allowing you to choose what’s best for your operation.
When comparing the Sprinter vs. Transit, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to determining which one is best. While the Transit delivers strong value, easy servicing, and solid everyday performance—especially for lighter-duty fleets—the Sprinter offers available AWD, optional diesel power, and long-haul dependability, making it ideal for more demanding commercial applications.
Still deciding between the Sprinter and Transit? Here are a few key questions to help narrow your choice:
Choosing the right van is key to keeping your business moving. With impressive cargo space, customization options, and lasting reliability, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is built for your success. Visit Ed Hicks Imports today to explore our commercial inventory and test drive the van that works as hard as you do.
