Clinto wrote:
Bill: Just wondering why you recommend the mid-roof Transit rather than the high-roof? I'm 6' 1" and like the idea of being able to stand up straight in the back of the van.
The medium roof will have an interior height of 6'. This should work for you 95% of the time.
Going for the higher roof van will mean you'll have a higher wind profile, lower mpg, and you'll find there will be places you won't be able to park or pull into (fast food drive in windows, etc). If you live in a HOA community, it is possible a high roof van won't be permitted.
I've driven across country in a high roof van (not a transit) and side wind gusts can definitely have an impact on handling and safety.
When I camp in the van, most of the time inside is spent sitting, sleeping or using the bathroom, and not standing full height.
That said, I've learned how to comfortably camp in a Toyota Sienna mini van which has an interior roof height of 4'. I prefer the mid roof in my Roadtrek, but when needed, have learned to adjust to the lower roof in the Sienna.
Before you decide to buy any high roof van, drive it in city traffic and then on the highway. If it doesn't feel top heavy and you aren't worried about being kept out of some drive thrus, it might be the van for you.
FYI: I've had two sprinter vans. They were great most of the time. But when they broke down, especially in remote areas, it was a real pain to get them fixed. Expensive too. All too often I had to leave the van and rent a car to get home, while having the sprinter towed to the nearest Mercedes dealer (which one time was more than 300 miles away).
I learned my lesson - I want the reliability and local parts availability of a Ford or Chevy.
Bill
