scoutkid
Van Builder
I'm in, now I just have to talk to my wife.... Don't think she will go for it. If you think about it, it's not much different than this:
http://www.prefix.com/Trekker/
We keep coming back to the full size vans. I really like the E350, but can't stand the milage..It hits on the other side of not practical. We go to the to a river just about every weekend, so 3-4 hours up and 3-4 hours back. It's about $45-50 difference each week, and $300 each time we "run" out to Colorado or Utah for a 5 day trip. Even if we decide to go with it and try to make up the difference in gas by offsetting the payment ($20K van vs $40K sprinter) - using it in town as a quasi daily driver negates all benefits.
I guess that's why most people use their expo/adventure vehicles as that and try not to cross over into the everyday world- too expensive/not practical.
You know, I really appreciate your input. Good, bad, and down right crazy ideas are welcome!
You are complaining about it costing less than $35 PER PERSON to get them to Colorado or Utah? Your expectations sir, are unrealistic! My 7.3L Diesel (stock) E350 just got me 16+ MPG full loaded round trip from Denver to Moab. I was friggen THRILLED and it was just 2 of us!
Find the right van and you can be into it for $10-20K.
You load up that 'Burb with 9 people + gear and a trailer and kiss that sweet 20+ MPG goodbye! Not to mention that your performance up the hills will leave a lot to be desired.
A van hits 90% of your 'must haves', with your MPG requirement being unrealistic for the duty you are requiring - at least out of any large 4x4. Hate to break it to ya