@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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Ford Transit Custom Bus vs Mercedes Vito Transporter – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Ford Transit Custom Bus or Mercedes Vito Transporter?

Transit Custom Bus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

A Battle of Titans: Ford Transit Custom Bus vs Mercedes Vito Transporter

In the realm of commercial vehicles, few names hold as much weight as Ford and Mercedes-Benz. As the needs of businesses evolve, these automotive giants have rolled out their latest offerings: the Ford Transit Custom Bus and the Mercedes Vito Transporter. Each model is designed to meet the diverse requirements of the modern transport landscape, but how do they stack up against each other?

Vito Transporter @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Power and Performance

The Ford Transit Custom Bus presents a versatile array of power options catering to different needs. With engine types ranging from diesel to electric and plugin hybrid, it promises a comprehensive choice for various applications. The power output for this model ranges from 110 HP to an impressive 233 HP, ensuring efficiency alongside robust performance. Additionally, Ford offers both manual and automatic transmission options, and with available all-wheel, rear-wheel, and front-wheel drive, versatility is at its core.

In contrast, the Mercedes Vito Transporter also features both diesel and electric configurations. The diesel engines provide power outputs between 102 HP and 237 HP, showcasing an extensive performance range. Mercedes also offers automatic and manual transmissions, with all-wheel and rear-wheel drive options ensuring adaptability to multiple driving conditions.

Transit Custom Bus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

For eco-conscious consumers, the Transit Custom Bus shines with a notable electric range of up to 321 km and a battery capacity of 64 kWh. Its CO2 emissions range impresses with a best-in-class score of zero grams per kilometer for the electric model. Fuel efficiency stands at approximately 7.2 to 9 L/100 km, with electric consumption between 22.6 and 24.5 kWh/100 km.

The Vito Transporter is not far behind, offering an electric range up to 313 km with a 60 kWh battery. Its diesel variants showcase an efficient fuel consumption range from 6.8 to 7.9 L/100 km, maintaining a competitive edge in minimizing fuel costs. However, CO2 emissions for its diesel models start at 178 grams per kilometer.

Practical Dimensions and Interior Space

The Ford Transit Custom Bus boasts a length ranging from 5050 to 5450 mm and a width of 2032 mm, coupled with a height up to 1959 mm. With seating options for up to nine passengers, it is particularly suited for transporting larger groups. The model year 2024 iteration continues the tradition of spacious interiors typical of Ford's Transit range.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes Vito Transporter provides a diverse catalog of exterior dimensions with lengths between 4895 and 5370 mm. It is somewhat narrower with a width of 1928 mm, yet offers impressive flexibility in seating arrangements, accommodating up to five passengers in the cargo van configuration. Ideal for those prioritizing cargo space, its payload capacity reaches up to 1000 kg.

On the Edge of Innovation

Both Ford and Mercedes-Benz have integrated cutting-edge technologies into their respective models. Ford advances with its electric variants, continuing to enhance its green portfolio. Mercedes-Benz, renowned for luxurious and smart designs, ensures advanced infotainment and safety features to keep the Vito Transporter at the forefront of automotive technology.

Verdict

The choice between the Ford Transit Custom Bus and the Mercedes Vito Transporter comes down to specific requirements. For those prioritizing seating capacity and varied powertrain options, the Ford Transit Custom Bus shines. Meanwhile, businesses needing cargo versatility and an executive feel may prefer the Mercedes Vito Transporter. Both models represent the pinnacle of commercial transport, each promising reliability, innovation, and efficiency.

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

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Mercedes Vito Transporter has a significantly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 28800 £, while the Ford Transit Custom Bus costs 41900 £. That’s a price difference of around 13089 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Ford Transit Custom Bus manages with 3.90 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Mercedes Vito Transporter with 6.80 L. The difference is about 2.90 L per 100 km.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Mercedes Vito Transporter: with 21.20 kWh per 100 km, it’s slight more efficient than the Ford Transit Custom Bus with 22.40 kWh. That’s a difference of about 1.20 kWh.

As for range, the Mercedes Vito Transporter performs evident better – achieving up to 474 km, about 150 km more than the Ford Transit Custom Bus.

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 Mercedes Vito Transporter has a slight edge – offering 237 HP compared to 233 HP. That’s roughly 4 HP more horsepower.

In terms of top speed, the Ford Transit Custom Bus performs slight better – reaching 150 km/h, while the Mercedes Vito Transporter tops out at 140 km/h. The difference is around 10 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes Vito Transporter pulls somewhat stronger with 500 Nm compared to 415 Nm. That’s about 85 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Ford Transit Custom Bus offers clearly more seating capacity – 9 vs 5.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Ford Transit Custom Bus shows itself to be has a very small edge and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £41,900
Transit Custom Bus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Transit Custom Bus

  • Engine Type : Electric, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 110 - 233 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 3.9 - 8.5 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 22.4 - 24.3 kWh
  • Electric Range : 52 - 324 km

Ford Transit Custom Bus

The Ford Transit Custom Bus offers a versatile solution for those in need of a spacious and practical vehicle, combining comfort with durability. Its stylish exterior is matched by a well-designed interior that provides ample space for passengers, making it an ideal choice for group travel. The driving experience is enhanced by a smooth ride and responsive handling, ensuring both driver and passengers enjoy the journey.

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Mercedes Vito Transporter

The Mercedes-Benz Vito Transporter combines practicality with the refined elegance characteristic of its brand. Known for its robust performance, this vehicle offers an impressively versatile interior space, making it ideal for both commercial use and everyday driving. The advanced safety features and modern technological enhancements ensure that the Vito remains a reliable and comfortable choice for drivers.

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Ford Transit Custom Bus
Mercedes Vito Transporter
Transit Custom Bus @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Vito Transporter @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
41900 - 55600 £
Price
28800 - 51600 £
Consumption L/100km
3.9 - 8.5 L
Consumption L/100km
6.8 - 9.7 L
Consumption kWh/100km
22.4 - 24.3 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
21.2 - 26.5 kWh
Electric Range
52 - 324 km
Electric Range
304 - 474 km
Battery Capacity
11.8 - 64 kWh
Battery Capacity
60 - 90 kWh
co2
0 - 222 g/km
co2
0 - 222 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
55 - 63 L
Fuel tank capacity
57 - 70 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Bus
Body Type
Cargo Van
Seats
9
Seats
2 - 5
Doors
4
Doors
4
Curb weight
-
Curb weight
1916 - 2518 kg
Trunk capacity
0 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
5050 - 5450 mm
Length
4895 - 5390 mm
Width
2032 mm
Width
1928 mm
Height
1958 - 1959 mm
Height
1910 - 1945 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
3100 - 6600 L
Payload
-
Payload
547 - 884 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Diesel, Electric, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox, CVT
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
110 - 233 HP
Power HP
102 - 237 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Max Speed
110 - 150 km/h
Max Speed
120 - 140 km/h
Torque
310 - 415 Nm
Torque
270 - 500 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
81 - 171 kW
Power kW
75 - 174 kW
Engine capacity
1996 - 2488 cm3
Engine capacity
1950 - 1999 cm3

General

Model Year
2023 - 2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, A
Brand
Ford
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What drivetrain options does the Ford Transit Custom Bus have?

The Ford Transit Custom Bus is offered with Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.