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2022 Ford Transit Cargo Van vs. 2022 Ram ProMaster Window Van | Kunes Commercial

Published on Jul 10, 2023 by Cassie Gould

Ford Transit Cargo Van vs. Ram ProMaster Window Van | Kunes Commercial

Comparing the Ford Transit Cargo Van and Ram ProMaster Window Van will compare two of the most famous cargo vans in circulation right now. Can you choose a better device for the price? 

What's your budget?

I will talk more into this later, but budgeting is always your priority. If you're not careful you'll get lost in the cool features that a van offers. Please do not eat as many pieces at once. Find an effective budget. It can happen that certain cars will not match your price. Try another model instead of increasing the amount of money. While extending your budget for higher costs, you will not have the money you need on interior and exterior upgrades. Think about how easily you can find parts for vans.

Are you looking for a new or used van?

New vans are very expensive. In the future, brand new cargo vans will be a more affordable option that may reduce the overall cost of the vehicle's repair costs. It is also easier to obtain loans for paying the installment of your debt. Unless the van's new model does not fit the budget, it's okay - unless you conduct a thorough investigation. It might be worth it to buy a lightly used van that still carries warranties.

What size van do you need?

Do you have a height above 5'4"? Similarly, you can enjoy the 4” additional floor height on a Transit when you compare it. 

How long do you plan to use the van?

Do you think it will last a lifetime? Do you plan on using the item until it is sold? Sprinter vehicles are diesel vehicles that have much more useful life than gasoline cars like Ford Transits and ProMasters. If you are looking to sell an SUV the ProMaster will probably have better sales values later on.

a silver Ford Transit in a front side view on a transparent background

Ford Transit Vans

Ford Transit van conversion have become increasingly popular. Another reason for the popularity boom is the fact newer models (2020+) are equipped with All-Wheel Drive with AWD. 4WD was a main reason people had used Sprinters and so the transit seems to have captured a portion of the market.

Ford's latest Transit provides users with a huge variety of features. For instance, some premium models include a power inverter for charging the battery in cargo areas (something Sprinters still lacks). The vehicles also include Ford's latest infotainment system, SYNC3. Compared to other Sprinter brands, many of them have an MBUX infotainment system.

Ford Transit Cargo Vans Pros and Cons

When evaluating the Ford Transit, it's important to consider both its pros and cons to make an informed decision.

Pros:

1. Versatility: The Ford Transit offers a range of models, sizes, and configurations, making it a versatile option for various commercial needs.

2. Advanced Safety Features: The Transit is equipped with advanced safety technologies, such as pre-collision assist and lane-keeping system, enhancing driver and passenger safety.

3. Customization Options: With its open floor plan and flexible seating arrangements, the Transit allows for customization to suit specific business requirements.

Cons:

1. Higher Price: Compared to some competitors, Ford Transit may have a higher starting price, potentially impacting the initial investment for businesses.

2. Maneuverability: The Transit's larger size can make maneuvering in tight spaces or crowded urban areas more challenging compared to smaller vans.

3. Potential Repair Costs: While the Transit has a reputation for reliability, it's essential to consider that any vehicle can require maintenance and repairs over time, potentially impacting long-term costs.

a black Ram Promaster in a front side view with a transparent background

Ram ProMaster

The Ram Promaster may trail Ford in gaining market share on conversions. They are incredibly attractive. In particular, its square interior space allows easy buildability. Often people can sleep sideways with a light bulb but not flares. Promaster's only downside is that there are limited upgrade plans. It also has poor clearance as well as no four-wheel drive option. Promasters are easier to service compared to Sprinters because they have more accessible components.

The ProMaster 159 Wheelbase is the Perfect Size

Transit cargo vans' 148 wheels have enough space in them to fit a convertible dining table/bed and kitchen while still fitting a normal parking area. The smaller the room the more room it will give the room. The Promaster 156 wheels are perfect in shape. It's almost a foot taller than the Transit 148 wheelbase. There is still some more space for conversion. It comes with a longer wheelbase, but it really cannot fit into normal parking spots. The sloping roof adds a further 2.5 foot overhang to the rear wall.

inside back view of promaster to display ability to side sleep

ProMaster Interior Width Allows Side Sleeping

It's the most valuable advantage for buying a Promaster. The "ProMAKER" boasts a wider interior than the Transit. It means you can sit sideways so you can have more room for your kitchen area. A queen mattress measures around 5 feet in width, therefore when you sleep sideways the bed only has 5 feet of width in a car compared to 6-6.5 feet when sleeping side to side with enough room for storage space.. You'll have more than 1 feet available. This isn't huge but it is important when compared to an average van weighing under 60 square meters.

Step Down to Cab Makes Nice Transition

It was purely a minor issue but aesthetically it makes an important difference and we chose the Promaster instead. In the taxi area, the Promaster steps into the back of the van. It is a very good transition for laying flooring as it is directly on the steps. Visually the transition appears more natural whereas transit is the same - the two levels are the same.

Is the Ram ProMaster a reliable vehicle?

While the Ram ProMaster has its biggest advantages, it's important to consider its reliability when making a purchasing decision. In a comparison of 21 commercial vans, the ProMaster ranked 17th in terms of reliability. While this might indicate that there are some more reliable options available, it's worth noting that rankings can vary based on specific criteria and individual experiences.

One aspect that may provide reassurance is the low average annual repair cost, which sits at an average of $1,072. This suggests that the ProMaster has relatively low maintenance expenses, offering potential cost savings over time. However, it's important to factor in additional variables such as the van's age, mileage, and individual driving habits, as these can influence repair costs.

When considering the reliability of the Ram ProMaster, it can be beneficial to conduct thorough research, read reviews, and consult with professionals to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its performance and long-term dependability.

Cons to Buying a ProMaster

While the Ram ProMaster has its merits, there are a few cons to consider before making your purchase. One notable disadvantage is that the ProMaster is a truck, which means it may require some modifications to suit your specific needs. Whether it's installing additional shelving, partition walls, or custom storage solutions, these modifications can add to the overall cost and time required to fully customize the van to your liking.

Another aspect to consider is the ProMaster's size and maneuverability. While its spacious interior is beneficial for cargo capacity, it may present challenges when navigating tight city streets or parking in compact spaces. It's important to be mindful of the ProMaster's dimensions and plan routes accordingly to ensure smooth and efficient travel.

What is the difference between a ProMaster Vans and a Ford Transit Van?

The key difference between the ProMaster and the Transit lies in their wheel configurations. The Ram ProMaster features a front-wheel-drive system, while the Ford Transit utilizes a rear-wheel-drive system. This distinction can impact the driving dynamics and handling of the vehicles.

With its front-wheel-drive setup, the ProMaster offers certain advantages. The weight distribution is more balanced, providing better traction on slippery surfaces and improving maneuverability in tight spaces.

On the other hand, the Transit's rear-wheel-drive configuration offers its own set of benefits. The weight distribution tends to be more rearward, resulting in enhanced stability, especially when carrying heavy loads.

How big is the Ram ProMaster compared to the Ford Transit?

Ram ProMaster City Cargo van can carry 131.7 square meters of cargo space. The Ford Transit Connect cargo van has cargo space that can handle cargo up to 87.6 ft wide and 47.2 to 47.2 ft high. It can carry 48 inches of cargo between its wheels.

What is the difference between a ProMaster and a Transit?

The ProMaster has rear wheels whereas Transit has rear wheels. When one builds out vans, they're incredibly heavy in weight so it always drives like bigger cars rather than smaller sedans.

Ford Transit vs Ram ProMaster: Suitability for Conversions

There's no doubt that the Ram ProMaster and Transit are the most popular cargo vans. Different types of vehicles make for good DIY conversions and choosing one depends on individual preferences and specific needs. The Ford Transit is a more economical choice if a person needs plenty of room inside the car.... It also provides additional cargo space of 12 inches for travel on larger models and this makes it ideal for people travelling with young kids or animals. The Promaster is a very versatile vehicle with a boxy shape. It's easier to DIY the change since it's easier to handle the curves.

Front Wheel Drive

ProMaster is rear wheel driven, whereas Transits are rear wheel driven. After building a van it will carry loads of weight. Despite some people's claims, front wheel drive is more dependable in many situations.

Shorter Interior Height than Transit

Is this really a real cons to buying proMasters versus transits? If you are over 6 feet tall you will have a hard time standing up in ProMaster. The inside height for this machine is approximately 66 inches. However after installing insulation and floorboards you need to subtract several inches from that.

What's Your Budget - How the Transit vs. ProMaster stack up price wise

Your budget is the biggest factor to consider when selecting a car for your adventure conversion. Compared the ProMaster is more affordable than the Transit. However, it lacks interior features and aftermarket improvements. So it is important to compare the features of each package before making a final decision.

Transit vs. ProMaster - Engine, Transmission, and MPG Comparison

The purchaser has the option to select a four-cylinder petrol model, a four-cylinder diesel model, and a six-cylinder diesel model. The 6-cylinder diesel four wheel drive model has grown in popularity over the past years and the 4-cylinder turbo-charged diesel is set to be launched in 2022. New vehicles have an electronic clutch to distribute torque on demand, either at the front or rear. It detects wheelspin and adjusts torque automatically accordingly. A new model features also the introduction of a fast door which detects the movement and allows for automatic opening doors.

AWD Transit vs. FWD ProMaster - Which One Do You Need?

We can look into the driving system now. Sprinters are also capable for solid ground clearance. So although all three are well equipped and capable of going on the road they won't win Rock Crawler competitions. It was designated as 4x4, but not exactly accurate. Functionally, this system is an allwheel drive system sending a maximum of 33% of engine torque to front wheels and 77% to rear wheels. A button will shut down AWD. This will, however, only happen when driving.

What is the gas mileage on the ProMaster vs Transit?

It offers 22 mpg city, 24 highway and 24 combined. The 2.0-liter car can deliver 24 miles per gallon of fuel in 24 mpg city, 27 highways and 24 combined. A move to 1.5 liters lower mpg city, 28 highways and 23 combined compared to 20 in previous years.Empty Paragraph

Sliding Door Step Is Helpful

The sliding doors are huge and it's important to enter the cargo van. After doing this for years, you can't stop thinking about this. Transits have an elevated step lower before entering cabs. This helps make stepping onto a van more easy, especially when people get older.

Is a Ford Transit better than a ProMaster?

The Ram ProMaster comes equipped with engine options that provide higher horsepower, giving it an edge in terms of raw power. This extra horsepower can enhance acceleration, towing capabilities, and overall performance, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize robust motor performance.

Furthermore, the Ram ProMaster's lower power output can contribute to its efficiency. With a balance of power and fuel economy, the ProMaster offers a competitive advantage for businesses aiming to maximize fuel efficiency and minimize operating costs. It allows for smoother acceleration and the ability to handle heavy loads with ease.

Is the Ram ProMaster better than the Ford Transit?

Efficiencies: Ram ProMaster van Wins. When comparing the Ram ProMaster and the Ford Transit, it's worth noting that the 2021 Ford Transit is expected to have similar horsepower ratings to the 2021 Ram ProMaster engines. Both manufacturers offer powerful transmission systems to enhance performance.

However, where the Ram ProMaster excels is in its overall performance. With its refined engineering and well-tuned drivetrain, the ProMaster delivers exceptional efficiency, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to optimize fuel consumption and lower operating costs. Its engine options provide a balance of power and fuel economy, ensuring that you can efficiently navigate both city streets and highways.

Furthermore, the Ram ProMaster's design emphasizes functionality, contributing to its overall efficiency. Its front-wheel-drive configuration allows for a lower load floor, simplifying the loading and unloading process. The ProMaster's maneuverability and tight turning radius also make it easier to navigate crowded urban areas and tight spaces, enhancing productivity and reducing time spent on the road.

While the Ford Transit offers a range of advanced features and a reputation for reliability, the Ram ProMaster's focus on performance and efficiency sets it apart. It is a dependable and economical choice for businesses that prioritize maximizing their bottom line while still enjoying a comfortable and capable work vehicle.

Ultimately, the decision between the Ram ProMaster and the Ford Transit depends on your specific business needs and preferences. Consider factors such as performance requirements, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and overall cost-effectiveness to determine which van aligns best with your unique circumstances.

Which cargo van is the most reliable?

When it comes to reliability, the Ford Transit takes the lead. Known for its strong reputation and track record, the Ford Transit has become a go-to choice for businesses in the transportation industry. Its reliability is a result of meticulous engineering and rigorous testing, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of daily commercial use.

The Ford Transit's proven reliability is a key factor in its widespread popularity. It has earned the trust of countless businesses worldwide, thanks to its ability to consistently deliver optimal performance and durability. Whether it's transporting goods, making deliveries, or providing passenger transportation, the Ford Transit has proven to be a dependable workhorse.

Which is better Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster?

Comparing the Ford Transit Cargo Van and Ram ProMaster Cargo Van allows us to evaluate two highly popular cargo vans currently in circulation. If you're searching for the best value for your money, it's important to consider the pricing of each van. The Transit Van's base price for the cargo van is listed at $39,570, while the ProMaster comes with a higher base price of $45,550.

Beyond the price point, let's explore some key features and specifications of both vans. The Ford Transit Cargo Van boasts a sleek and modern design, equipped with advanced safety features such as pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping system. It offers a spacious cargo area with flexible seating options, ensuring practicality and versatility for various commercial needs. The Transit Van also provides a range of engine options, including an efficient EcoBoost engine, catering to different performance preferences.

On the other hand, the Ram ProMaster Window Van exhibits a distinctive and rugged appearance. It emphasizes functionality, with a focus on interior space and customization options. The ProMaster Window Van features a wide side-door opening and a low step-in height, facilitating easy loading and unloading of cargo. Additionally, it offers a comfortable cabin and driver-centric amenities for a pleasant driving experience with different engine options.

As you make your decision, consider your specific requirements and priorities. If affordability is a primary concern, the Ford Transit Cargo Van presents a more cost-effective option. However, if you value the ProMaster Window Van's unique design and emphasis on cargo capacity, it may be the preferred choice for your business needs.

The Ford Transit Cargo Van and Ram ProMaster Window Van are competitive options in the cargo van market. By evaluating their respective features, pricing, and individual preferences, you can make an informed decision and select the van that best aligns with your specific requirements.

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