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How do I find this vehicle?
Hi all, I'm a newbie here looking to acquire a motorhome/campervan. I've caravanned in the past (sold it 2 years ago), but now I'd like a campervan, and have put together a list of requirements (below).
I live on the Isle of Wight, so ferry fares are important, and 6m length is a big price-beak point. I also want to be able to tow a boat, including launching and recovering it, which can involve pulling it up a wet slipway, so towing power and grip are important.
Essential:
Panel van based - I need to also use it as normal vehicle
RWD - to tow boat and haul out of the water
SWB or MWB, LOA <6m - ferry fares rise for longer vehicles
Min. 4 belted seats (inc. driver)
6ft headroom, hi-top (pop-top?)
2 people - double berth
Cassette toilet & basin - hand shower? (not fussed about full shower)
Hob, no oven
Fridge
Heating
Nice to have:
4WD - better for hauling a boat up a slipway
Swivel front seats - max use of space
Removable fittings - ability to use as van
Option to make up as 2 berths instead of double
Automatic transmission
Cruise control
Budget:
Used, ideally under £15k
Absolute max £20k for something special
Options:
Factory conversion
Buy van and get professional conversion
Buy van and DIY - maybe using kit
Some combination of above
It seems that RWD restricts me to a Sprinter or Transit (which come in FWD & RWD). Or are there any others?
So can anyone offer advice on the best way of getting what I'm looking for - and is it even achievable?
Many thanks
Rick
Camper Van Life is brought to you by Darren Lambert, a big fan of camper vans.
Hi Rik
It is achievable, but you're requirements are significant, so finding a likely vehicle will require some hard work.
The Sprinter comes in a 4x4 version, but it's rare. An unweighted RWD Sprinter has fairly low grip at the back end, but they are generally fine with some weight in the back.
Transits I think do come in either FWD or RWD, but I haven't seen a FWD one for a while.
I think the Iveco Daily is RWD also.
Doing your own conversion will give you the perfect van for you, and will be cheaper. But it does take time.
Finding one already converted saves a lot of time, and is easier, but will cost more.