E-Series vs Transit vs Sprinter

[atreis]

Originally Posted by Chance

Please discuss Chevy if you wish since it’s in same segment as Ford E-Series — just has much lower market share of RV business. Keep in mind that Chevy 4500 is a direct competitor with E-450, and 3500 with E-350. Because Ford has higher load capacity, RV manufacturers sometimes must use Chevy 4500 where an E-350 will do. Granted, Chevy 4500 is higher GVWR than E-350 so you end up with higher OCCC. Or they can go with Ford E-450 and have even higher OCCC.

I don't have mine yet, so nothing to discuss. I'm mainly curious about other's experience. Thank you for providing yours!

The smaller Four Winds are offered on either E-350 or Chevy 4500. I opted for the Chevy specifically for the higher OCCC.

[Bob Denman]

How much difference is there in the carrying capacity?

[atreis]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

How much difference is there in the carrying capacity?

That number seems to be very hard to find. GVWR is 1700 lbs more, but not sure how much of that would make it into the OCCC. Presumably most should though. I could provide my OCCC once I know it, but that won't be until next year.

[Bob Denman]

Thanks...

[Chance]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

Chance,
Why not compare the Sprinter to the Transit: you keep pitting it against the 450...
You also didn't mention the Diesel's better fuel economy...

You are the one who keeps bringing up the E-450 versus Sprinter, probably because that’s what you’ve owned.

In my opinion, even the E-350 DRW is heavier duty than Sprinter 3500.

A more direct comparison in capability would be the SRW E-350 but Ford limits the GVWR down to 10,050 pounds, which is grossly under its potential.


Regarding fuel economy, read post #21.

Even at 50% higher MPG (and in equal motorhomes it would be much less than 50%), the average RV would save very little fuel annually. If you didn’t spend it in maintenance and repairs, it would take a very long time to pay for the extra initial cost.

If you want a diesel because of how it drives, or whatever, have at it. But I don’t see how it will save money in an RV unless you are driving around all the time — at least 20,000 miles a year.

[Bob Denman]

You want to know something?
You're right: my observation was too specific.
So let's just say "full-sized Ford"; and let it go at that.
The Sprinter and Transit chassis comparisons are perfectly valid...