Forum Discussion

CoeyCoey's avatar
CoeyCoey
Explorer
Aug 15, 2015

Sprinter Class C questions

Hi all,

We have a nonprofit and are looking to buy a class C RV that can tow a small concession trailer. We have been looking at a lot of the Sprinter class C's, but can't find towing capacity on many of them easily. I think most are limited to 3,500 pounds? Is there a place that lists the towing capacities?

We like the fuel mileage of the Sprinter diesel, but we're wondering about the fuel mileage of other diesel class C's. I see there is a big jump in size from the sprinter to other diesel "Super" C's. However, the tow ratings are much higher and would give us room to grow.

I am also concerned with the reliability issues of the Sprinter diesel. It seems very hit or miss. And even minor issues seem very expensive. If we have the finances to get into a Class C with a Chevy Diesel, is that the way to go? Or is the Sprinter reliability issue mostly about the squeaky wheel getting the attention?

If we do go with a Super C, are there certain manufacturers better than others, or do they tend to all have similar build quality and features?

Thank you!
  • Class C tow capacities are usually for flat tows, whatever the chassis. Critical factor for trailer towing will be limits on trailer tongue weight, typically in the 350-500 pound range, which means 2500-3500 pound trailers. This is a result of the long rear overhang needed to get that big empty box balanced between front and rear axles.

    Some super C designs get past this, and can tow really big trailers, others face similar limitations.

    Not so much an issue if your trailer is supported by axles on both ends, rather than riding with significant weight on the tow vehicle.
  • Well the super C is a fairly large size vehicle. They all have similar build quality. The Sprinters are small, but do get decent fuel mileage and ride good. The Winnebago View is a very good product. It is a house built by Winnebago resting on a Mercedes Sprinter Chassis. Get the bigger V6 engine. They are awesome for 2 people. Should tow your utility trailer fine. They tow our lot vehicles just fine.
  • we have a class C sprinter ,5000# tow and its great, ours the 5 cyc diesel will get 20 mpg not towing and 17teen towing the kids 10foot trailer loaded with a golf cart and dog equipt. theres nothing better. repairs on any diesel cost more , but we havn,t had any repairs in 38k miles , google what class C you want there out there just gotta find them.