Fiat may have another winner
If this was introduced into the NA market, it could replace the Sprinter. This is the 50c spec as against the heavier 70c
2016 Iveco Daily 50C210 vs 2016 Mercedes Sprinter 519CDI.
First let's go through the specs:
Mercedes Sprinter 519CDI
Power: 140kw/190hp @ 3800rpm
Torque: 440nm @ 1400-2400rpm
Gearbox: 7 speed torque converter type auto.
Tow Capacity: 2000kg(4,400lb)
Rear Suspension: Leaf springs
Iveco Daily 50C210
Power: 150kw/205hp
Torque: 470nm
Gearbox: 8 speed torque converter type auto.
Tow Capacity: 3500kg(7,700lb)
Rear suspension: airbag
It is important to note that we are using a higher spec than other manufacturers for the Iveco, from what we have seen they are all using the lower output 174hp engine and the standard leaf spring rear suspension.
In 2015 a major improvement released by Iveco was their new ZF 8 speed auto which replaced the old 6 speed automated manual. The old gearbox was the number one reason customers would pick the Mercedes over the Iveco.
I have driven the Mercedes many thousands of Kms over the years and have always thought it drives very well, some people don't like the soft suspension that allows some body roll but I never thought this was a major issue. (There are now some great sway bar kits we can fit for this too).
The Mercedes is smooth in its power and gear shifting which was always one of the main reasons customers would pay more for it. There is plenty of power going up steep hills even with a car on the back.
Fuel economy is good with many customers even on larger ones reporting figures in the 12-13L/100km and up to 18L/100km with bed over cab models and tow cars.
I have now travelled approximately 3000km in the new Iveco, I was towing a 5 door Suzuki Grand Vitara the entire time and found the power and gearbox smooth and absolutely amazing!!
It travels along at 110km/hr with ease at about 1900rpm in 8th gear even with the car on the back. The economy from what I can work out would be a little better than the equivalent setup on a Mercedes, I averaged 16L/100km for the entire trip. This would be better for most customers who travel a little slower to take in the scenery.
The airbag suspension is a great improvement over the standard Iveco leaf springs.
Both vehicles have tremendous pulling power, heading out of Adelaide up through the hills both the Mercedes and the Iveco Motorhomes maintain 100km/hr and even the Iveco towing the car maintained 90-95km/hr.
Overall on paper at least the Iveco has this won easily at $8000 cheaper too.
In reality it is not so clear cut. There are many small details on the Mercedes that have that well thought out German feel to them. Things like the position of the side mirrors are basically perfect on the Mercedes but for me in the Iveco with the seat back to suit my 6'3" frame I found myself having to look around the window pillar a little.
The gear shifter in the Iveco is in a spot that my knee rubbed on that only became annoying after 1000km.
Fit and finish is also better on the Mercedes, this is most noticeable on the dash where the various plastic parts join together.
Styling wise I really like the look of the new Iveco on the outside, although I prefer the inside of the Mercedes.
Overall I think the decision on which is better comes down to what your priorities are.
If tow capacity is what you need then the Iveco will be the winner.
If the fit and finish of the interior and the driving position ergonomics (and maybe a little badge envy) is what motivates you then the Mercedes may be a better fit.
What would I buy?
That's obvious..... Whichever one my wife prefers as I think they're both great anyway. ??????
Ben MacLean
General Manager
Paradise Motorhomes
