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Ford Transit Bus vs VW Grand California - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (150 HP vs 163 HP), boot space and price (50500 £ vs 70200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Ford Transit Bus or VW Grand California?

Transit Bus

Ford Transit Bus vs VW Grand California: A Battle of Versatile Vans

When it comes to choosing a reliable, versatile van for both transporting passengers and tackling long road trips, the Ford Transit Bus and the VW Grand California often come to mind. Each offers unique features catering to different needs and preferences. In this comparison, we explore the technical aspects and innovations of these two contenders to help you decide which one suits your lifestyle best.

Transit Bus

Under the Hood: Power and Performance

The Ford Transit Bus makes a strong impression with its robust diesel engine options, offering power outputs of 130 HP and 150 HP (96 kW and 110 kW). With a torque of up to 390 Nm and a curb weight ranging from 2311 to 2385 kg, this front-wheel-drive van is engineered to deliver solid performance on various terrains.

In contrast, the VW Grand California steps up with a slightly more potent 163 HP (120 kW) diesel engine. It provides the added flexibility of front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. Although heavier, with curb weights starting at 3052 kg, the Grand California compensates with enhanced traction and stability, particularly advantageous for adventurous trips.

Transit Bus

Fuel Efficiency and Capacity

On the fuel efficiency front, the Ford Transit Bus maintains a moderate average consumption of around 9.4 to 9.5 L/100km. Its fuel tank capacity sits at 70 liters, allowing for decent range between fill-ups.

Meanwhile, VW's Grand California offers a slightly larger fuel tank at 75 liters. While specific consumption figures aren't provided, VW's diesel engines are generally respected for efficiency, hinting at fewer stops during long hauls.

Interior Comfort and Space

The Ford Transit Bus is designed with practicality in mind, accommodating up to nine passengers. Despite its larger passenger capacity, the Transit Bus maintains a compact, maneuverable frame, with lengths between 5531 mm and 5981 mm, making it a versatile option for urban environments.

Conversely, the VW Grand California focuses more on leisure travel. With seating for four, its interior is crafted for comfort, featuring amenities that transform the van into a mobile living space, perfect for road trips and camping. Its longer body, ranging from 5986 mm to 6836 mm, and heights up to 2971 mm mean it may require strategic planning for city parking, yet it excels in offering a spacious traveling haven.

Payload and Versatility

Ford's Transit Bus shines with a robust payload capacity, able to handle between 789 kg and 1162 kg. This advantageous feature makes it ideal for transporting equipment or as a shuttle van.

In comparison, the Grand California offers a lower payload capacity, topping out at 448 kg. However, its strength lies in its innovative use of space for recreational purposes, including integrated camping features, thus appealing more to leisure seekers than commercial users.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Champion

In the end, your choice between the Ford Transit Bus and the VW Grand California will largely depend on your specific needs. If you're looking for a practical workhorse capable of ferrying multiple passengers efficiently, the Ford Transit Bus stands as a reliable choice. On the other hand, for wanderers seeking adventure and comfort on the open road, the VW Grand California offers an attractive blend of livability and performance. Each brings its own set of strengths, ensuring that either van would be a valuable companion in its own right.

Ford Transit Bus

VW Grand California

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Ford Transit Bus has a noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 50500 £ , while the VW Grand California costs 70200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 19736 £.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Grand California has a slight edge – offering 163 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 13 HP more horsepower.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Ford Transit Bus offers convincingly more seating capacity – 9 vs 4.

In curb weight, Ford Transit Bus is noticeable lighter – 2338 kg compared to 3052 kg. The difference is around 714 kg.

Boot capacity is identical – both offer 0 L of storage.

When it comes to payload, Ford Transit Bus convincingly takes the win – 1162 kg compared to 448 kg. That’s a difference of about 714 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Ford Transit Bus is decisively ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

Ford Transit Bus
VW Grand California

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
from about £50,500
Transit Bus

Ford Transit Bus

  • Engine Type : Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 130 - 150 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 9.4 - 9.5 L
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Ford Transit Bus

The Ford Transit is the reliable people-mover operators turn to when they need space, stamina and sensible running costs without fuss. It doesn't try to be glamorous, but its practical interior, flexible layouts and honest character make it a smart, stress-free choice for shuttle services and group transport.

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98B296E7-C10F-4999-B4D2-428B46A9DF09
2018_FORD_TRANSIT_Kombi__18
2018_FORD_TRANSIT__12

VW Grand California

The Grand California is Volkswagen's remarkable take on the camper van, blending practicality with comfort for the ultimate road trip experience. With ample space for both living and storage, it's designed for adventure seekers who don't want to compromise on amenities. Whether you're exploring coastal roads or setting up camp in the mountains, the Grand California offers a perfect home away from home.

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Reviews Ford Transit Bus

Reviews VW Grand California

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VW Grand California

Costs and Consumption
Price
50500 - 52900 £
Price
70200 - 77900 £
Consumption L/100km
9.4 - 9.5 L
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
245 - 248 g/km
co2
-
Fuel tank capacity
70 L
Fuel tank capacity
75 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Bus
Body Type
Bus
Seats
9
Seats
4
Doors
4
Doors
4
Curb weight
2338 - 2385 kg
Curb weight
3052 - 3354 kg
Trunk capacity
0 L
Trunk capacity
0 L
Length
5531 - 5981 mm
Length
5986 - 6836 mm
Width
2059 mm
Width
2040 mm
Height
2530 - 2533 mm
Height
2839 - 2971 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
1115 - 1162 kg
Payload
146 - 448 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel
Engine Type
Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
130 - 150 HP
Power HP
163 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
360 - 390 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
96 - 110 kW
Power kW
120 kW
Engine capacity
1996 cm3
Engine capacity
1968 cm3

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
CO2 Efficiency Class
-
Brand
Ford
Brand
VW

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What drivetrain options does the Ford Transit Bus have?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices shown are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted for local VAT. Local registration taxes (e.g. NoVA, BPM or CO2 malus) are not included. This information is not legally binding.