Head to head
Ford Transit Large Van vs Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter
The Ford Transit Large Van holds 6.6 cubic metres more and takes loads 48cm (1.5ft) longer.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
Key differences
- Load volume: the Ford Transit Large Van holds 6.6 cubic metres more.
- Load length: the Ford Transit Large Van takes loads 48cm (1.5ft) longer.
Specifications side by side
| Ford Transit Large Van | Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 1098 kg (350 L3H3) | up to 1.28 tonnes (diesel); up to 1 tonne (electric) |
| Load volume | 12.4 m3 (L3H3) | 5.8 m3 (SWB); 6.8 m3 (LWB) |
| Load length | 3533 mm (L3H3) | 3050 mm (SWB (with load-through bulkhead)); 3450 mm (LWB (with load-through bulkhead)) |
| Gross weight | 3500 kg | 2800-3350 kg |
| Towing capacity | 2800 kg | up to 2.8 tonnes (diesel) |
Sources: Ford Transit Large Van, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter. 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 6.6 cubic metres more
- you want one that takes loads 48cm (1.5ft) 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 Transporter if...
The Transporter is positioned above budget medium vans on cabin quality and resale value, and stays under 2 metres tall on both wheelbases so it can access multi-storey car parks that rule out taller rivals.
Full Transporter specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Ford Transit Large Van and the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter?
The Ford Transit Large Van holds 6.6 cubic metres more and takes loads 48cm (1.5ft) 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 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter is a medium panel van (T6.1 generation), VW's rival to the Transit Custom and Vivaro..
Can I tow the Ford Transit Large Van or the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter on a car licence?
Yes, as far as the licence goes. Both are rated at or under 3,500kg gross, and a car (B) licence has covered towing up to 3,500kg since 16 December 2021. Your car still has to be rated to tow the loaded weight - check the handbook or the VIN plate.
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