What base van is good for my build?

[mrsa111]

I've been throwing around different ideas the last couple years for an expedition vehicle/camper. started out wanting something small and simple with just the basics, something like a small suv or wagon with a roof top tent. But now i'm looking more at sprinters and E series vans to outfit into a camper with everything i'd need.

Here's what im looking to get out of it.. Needs to be somewhat offroad capable, if it has the capabilities of your average stock SUV that'd be enough, more would always be nice, but not an absolute necessity. must have a shower inside. I travel a lot for work, and need to be able to clean up and "look presentable" as well as i would in a hotel room or motorhome. apart from that the basics like a kitchen, bed, fridge, etc.. storage for bikes would be nice but not absolutely necessary, i can always use a rack off the back.
What I dont want is a cramped living space where im crawling around and can barely stand up and move around. definitely want that small motorhome feel where you can walk around and stretch out.

Like i said i've mostly been looking at E series vans and 4x4 sprinters, but open to others. I have complete access to an offroad/metal fab shop. A friend suggested making a high roof ford excursion.

any thoughts?

 

[SDDiver5]

For the most part your sprinter or E series van will not have a shower... Not impossible to do but will be hard to find. I'd say sprinter would be better considering you want a mobile apartment and not an offroad van like a sportsmobile.

I wouldn't bother with an X. Drove one for 4 years. They are big but not ideal for what you are looking for.

 

[cparcell]

Honestly I think the best solution for your needs would be a astro awd or a safari awd. They have room, an amazing 4.3 engine and you can get almost any parts you want for modifications