Mercedes Sprinter Bus vs VW Crafter – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Q: What is the maximum horsepower of the Mercedes Sprinter Bus?

The Mercedes Sprinter Bus reaches a peak output of 190 HP, depending on the model.

Q: How much fuel does the Mercedes Sprinter Bus use?

Based on WLTP testing, consumption is around 9.30 L.

Q: How big is the Mercedes Sprinter Bus overall?

The Mercedes Sprinter Bus measures 6967 mm long, 1993 mm wide and 2633 mm high.

Q: What drivetrain options does the VW Crafter have?

The VW Crafter is available as Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

Q: How powerful is the VW Crafter's engine?

The VW Crafter reaches a peak output of 177 HP, depending on the model.

Q: How much fuel does the VW Crafter use?

Fuel consumption according to the manufacturer is 8.40 L.

Q: What maximum speed does the VW Crafter reach?

Depending on the model, top speed is 165 km/h.

Q: How big is the VW Crafter overall?

The VW Crafter measures 6836 mm long, 2040 mm wide and 2590 mm high.

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Mercedes Sprinter Bus or VW Crafter?

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Head-to-Head: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus vs. VW Crafter

As the demand for versatile, reliable buses becomes increasingly prevalent, automotive manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz and VW rise to the challenge. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus and the VW Crafter have long been favorites in the van segment, offering robust performance, advanced technology, and impressive functionality. In this article, we delve into a detailed comparison between these two models, analyzing their technical specifications and innovations to help you make an informed choice.

Powertrain and Performance

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus offers a range of diesel engines with a power output of 114 HP to 190 HP. With torque figures stretching from 300 Nm to 450 Nm, the Sprinter ensures a smooth yet powerful driving experience. The drive types available are rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, catering to different driving conditions and preferences. With a maximum speed ranging between 150 and 160 km/h, the Sprinter merges power with control.

On the other hand, the VW Crafter provides power options from 140 HP to 177 HP supported by a maximum torque of 410 Nm. With its innovative drive offerings, including rear-wheel, front-wheel, and all-wheel drive, the Crafter caters flexibly to diverse needs. Its speed capabilities range up to 165 km/h, aligning closely with the Sprinter's performance metrics.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for businesses and individual users alike. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers consumption ranging from 9.3 L/100km to 12.3 L/100km. However, the VW Crafter shows a more variable consumption range, from a low 8.4 L/100km to 13.1 L/100km, indicative of its range of engine options. Both models fall into CO2 Efficiency Class G, though the Crafter tends to have a slightly higher CO2 emission level.

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Dimensions and Capacity

The Sprinter Bus ranges from 5,932 mm to 6,967 mm in length, whereas the Crafter's length options span from 5,986 mm to 7,391 mm, offering a more extended configuration. In terms of dimensions, the Crafter provides a slight edge with a maximum width of 2,069 mm and a height up to 2,830 mm, compared to the Sprinter's width of 1,993 mm and height options up to 2,659 mm.

Payload and Seating

Both vehicles seat two occupants comfortably, supporting their principal use as cargo-focused options. The Mercedes Sprinter features a payload capacity ranging typically from 974 kg to 1,249 kg, whereas the Crafter exhibits a substantial payload capability reaching up to 2,994 kg, demonstrating its strength as a robust transporter.

Innovations and Technological Features

Mercedes-Benz and VW have equipped their vans with a host of innovative technologies. The Sprinter boasts a myriad of cutting-edge features, focusing on safety, connectivity, and driver assistance systems. Meanwhile, VW presents the Crafter with a similar suite of modern features, including accessible digital cockpit interfaces, advanced driver-assistance programs, and seamless connectivity options.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus and the VW Crafter largely depends on specific needs and priorities. For those seeking a wide range of power and transmission options, coupled with the reliability of German engineering, the Sprinter is a worthy contender. Conversely, the Crafter impresses with its high payload capacity, extended dimensional options, and versatile driving configurations. Both models offer substantial advancements in technology, ensuring any choice caters well to modern transport requirements.

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.

Mercedes Sprinter Bus has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 41400 £, while the VW Crafter costs 47100 £. That’s a price difference of around 5741 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Crafter manages with 8.40 L and is therefore slightly more efficient than the Mercedes Sprinter Bus with 9.30 L. The difference is about 0.90 L per 100 km.

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 Sprinter Bus has a minimal edge – offering 190 HP compared to 177 HP. That’s roughly 13 HP more horsepower.

In terms of top speed, the VW Crafter performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 165 km/h, while the Mercedes Sprinter Bus tops out at 159 km/h. The difference is around 6 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes Sprinter Bus pulls minimal stronger with 450 Nm compared to 410 Nm. That’s about 40 Nm difference.

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Space and Everyday Use:

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

Both vehicles offer seating for 2 people.

In curb weight, VW Crafter is to a small extent lighter – 2072 kg compared to 2356 kg. The difference is around 284 kg.

When it comes to payload, VW Crafter significantly takes the win – 2994 kg compared to 1144 kg. That’s a difference of about 1850 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the VW Crafter shows itself to be dominates this comparison 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 £47,100

VW Crafter

Price : 47100 - 68800 £
Body Type : Cargo Van
Engine Type : Diesel
Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail : Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP : 140 - 177 HP
Consumption L/100km : 8.4 - 13.1 L
Seats : 2
Model Year : 2017 - 2023
Max Speed : 90 - 165 km/h
Torque : 360 - 410 Nm
Number of Cylinders : 4
Doors : 4
Model : Crafter
Modell : Crafter 35 Kastenwagen Hochdach lang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 35 Kastenwagen Hochdach lang mit Überhang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 35 Kastenwagen Hochdach mittellang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 35 Kastenwagen Normaldach mittellang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 35 Kastenwagen Superhochdach lang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 35 Kastenwagen Superhochdach lang mit Überhang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 50 Kastenwagen Hochdach lang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 50 Kastenwagen Hochdach lang mit Überhang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 50 Kastenwagen Hochdach mittellang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 50 Kastenwagen Normaldach mittellang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 50 Kastenwagen Superhochdach lang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 50 Kastenwagen Superhochdach lang mit Überhang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 55 Kastenwagen Hochdach lang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 55 Kastenwagen Hochdach lang mit Überhang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 55 Kastenwagen Hochdach mittellang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 55 Kastenwagen Normaldach mittellang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 55 Kastenwagen Superhochdach lang 2.0 TDI BMT, Crafter 55 Kastenwagen Superhochdach lang mit Überhang 2.0 TDI BMT
CO2 Efficiency Class : G
Trim Level : (Heckantrieb), Automatik, Automatik (Heckantrieb), 4MOTION Automatik, (Heckantrieb/Super-Single), (Heckantrieb/Zwillingsbereifung), Automatik (Heckantrieb/Super-Single), Automatik (Heckantrieb/Zwillingsbereifung)
Power kW : 103 - 130 kW
co2 : 220 - 342 g/km
Engine capacity : 1968 cm3
Curb weight : 2072 - 2810 kg
Fuel tank capacity : 75 L
Length : 5986 - 7391 mm
Width : 2040 - 2069 mm
Height : 2355 - 2830 mm
Brand : VW
Max trunk capacity : 9300 - 18400 L
Payload : 1037 - 2994 kg

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Mercedes Sprinter Bus

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bus stands out as a versatile option for those seeking both comfort and practicality in a people mover. Its spacious interior design ensures ample room for passengers while maintaining a smooth and efficient driving experience. With its advanced safety features and modern amenities, the Sprinter Bus continues to be a leader in its class.

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VW Crafter

The VW Nutzfahrzeuge Crafter is a versatile commercial vehicle known for its robust design and reliability. It offers ample cargo space, making it ideal for businesses that require efficient transportation solutions. With advanced safety features and a comfortable cabin, the Crafter provides a pleasant driving experience even on long hauls.

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VW Crafter

Costs and Consumption
Price 41400 - 55900 £	Price 47100 - 68800 £
Consumption L/100km 9.3 - 12.3 L	Consumption L/100km 8.4 - 13.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km -	Consumption kWh/100km -
Electric Range -	Electric Range -
Battery Capacity -	Battery Capacity -
co2 244 - 322 g/km	co2 220 - 342 g/km
Fuel tank capacity 71 L	Fuel tank capacity 75 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type Bus	Body Type Cargo Van
Seats 2	Seats 2
Doors 4	Doors 4
Curb weight 2356 - 2559 kg	Curb weight 2072 - 2810 kg
Trunk capacity -	Trunk capacity -
Length 5932 - 6967 mm	Length 5986 - 7391 mm
Width 1993 mm	Width 2040 - 2069 mm
Height 2633 - 2659 mm	Height 2355 - 2830 mm
Max trunk capacity -	Max trunk capacity 9300 - 18400 L
Payload 814 - 1144 kg	Payload 1037 - 2994 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type Diesel	Engine Type Diesel
Transmission Manuel, Automatic	Transmission Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox	Transmission Detail Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive	Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP 114 - 190 HP	Power HP 140 - 177 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h -	Acceleration 0-100km/h -
Max Speed 150 - 159 km/h	Max Speed 90 - 165 km/h
Torque 300 - 450 Nm	Torque 360 - 410 Nm
Number of Cylinders 4	Number of Cylinders 4
Power kW 84 - 140 kW	Power kW 103 - 130 kW
Engine capacity 1950 cm3	Engine capacity 1968 cm3