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Ford Transit Large Van vs Mercedes Sprinter Panel Van

The Ford Transit Large Van holds 1.9 cubic metres more and takes loads 16cm longer.

Last reviewed 13 September 2026

Ford Transit Large Van
Ford Transit Large Van - image: Northgate Vehicle Hire
Mercedes Sprinter Panel Van
Mercedes Sprinter Panel Van - image: Sytner Mercedes-Benz

Key differences

Specifications side by side

Ford Transit Large VanMercedes Sprinter Panel Van
Payload1098 kg (350 L3H3)1157-1165 kg (L2H2, 3.5t); 958-966 kg (L4H2, 3.5t); up to 2479 kg (L2H2, 5.0t, 515/517)
Load volume12.4 m3 (L3H3)10.5 m3 (L2H2); 14.0 m3 (L3H2); 15.5 m3 (L4H2)
Load length3533 mm (L3H3)3375 mm (L2H2); 4810 mm (L4H2)
Gross weight3500 kg-
Towing capacity2800 kg-

Sources: Ford Transit Large Van, Mercedes Sprinter Panel Van. Figures vary by model year and options, so check with the supplier before you commit.

Buy or hire the Large Van if...

  • you want one that holds 1.9 cubic metres more
  • you want one that takes loads 16cm longer

The large Transit remains a fleet mainstay for removals and trade work needing more room than the Custom, with this L3H3 350 spec representing a common mid-range hire configuration.

Full Large Van specifications →

Buy or hire the Panel Van if...

The Sprinter is priced and equipped as the premium choice in the large van class, and its 3.5-5.0t GVW spread with matching payload jumps makes it a common choice for fleets that need heavier derivatives without moving to a 7.5t truck.

Full Panel Van specifications →

Common questions

What is the difference between the Ford Transit Large Van and the Mercedes Sprinter Panel Van?

The Ford Transit Large Van holds 1.9 cubic metres more and takes loads 16cm longer. The Ford Transit Large Van is a large panel van, the long-running Ford Transit in L3H3 350 form as offered on UK commercial hire fleets.; the Mercedes Sprinter Panel Van is a large diesel panel van offered from 3.5t to 5.0t GVW, a premium-positioned rival to the Transit and Crafter..

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