The Mercedes Sprinter, often hailed as the quintessential choice for van lifers, stands out not only for its reliability but also for its unparalleled desirability.
But can you really get 4-berths in a medium wheelbase (MWB / L2) Sprinter? Sure you can!
Today, we’re taking a closer look at a 4×4 MWB Mercedes Sprinter campervan fresh out of the workshop at Vango Fitouts UK. We’ve reviewed one of their conversions before – this elegant Citroen Relay Campervan – and this completely different conversion is testament to their dexterity when it comes to design.
The birch ply interior gives a nod to simple sophistication, but incorporated in the minimal, stripped-back design is a wealth of features.
Key features:
↠ Pull-out bike tray
↠ Gasless kitchen with induction cooking
↠ Impressive off-grid power set-up
↠ Premium RIB rock-and-roll-style bed to accommodate the 4-berth design
TL;DR
Take a full YouTube tour of this slick 4 passenger Sprinter build. Adventure-ready, you’ll be amazed at how well this layout works…
Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Manufacturer: Mercedes
↠ Model: Sprinter (MWB, high-roof) 4×4
↠ Fuel: Diesel engine
↠ Year: 2013
↠ Converted by: Vango Fitouts UK
Sprinter Campervan Interior
This 4-berth MWB Sprinter van has been masterfully crafted for the adventurous spirit, equipped with all the essentials for comfortable living on the road, and advanced features to enhance the journey.
Van Conversion Layout
Converting a medium wheelbase (MWB) Mercedes Sprinter into a campervan presents unique layout challenges when compared to a long wheelbase (LWB) Sprinter conversion.
However, the MWB Sprinter specifically does have an advantage over some MWB campervans – especially the Fiat Ducatos, Citroen Relays, and Peugeot Boxers, of the world.
This is thanks to its slightly longer size.
At 3.4 meters, the Sprinter’s interior length is generous compared to the Citroen Relay’s 3.1 meters – so let’s say it’s a SLMWB (a Slightly Longer Medium Wheelbase)! This affords a bit more flexibility in the conversion process.
As you’ll see in this space, Vango Fitouts have maximised every extra millimetre to achieve a beautiful balance between mobility and livability.
Seating & Sleeping
This Mercedes Sprinter campervan ingeniously marries functionality with comfort in its lounge and sleeping arrangements, accommodating up to four occupants.
Working from front to back, the front two seats are designed to swivel, creating a more inclusive and versatile living space. This is further enhanced by the custom birch ply table, which can be in-situ during travel and stored above the cab when not required.
At the core of the van the rock-and-roll-style bed serves a dual purpose: seating for two during transit or leisure times, and a comfortable bed for two for a restful night’s sleep.
Manufactured by French company RIB, the Uberflux system we see in action here represents a premium departure from the classic rock-and-roll bed – which slides forwards, so you to sleep on the same side that you sit on. Conversely, this RIB bed has a unique lever-based mechanism where the seat flips over, and you end up sleeping on the opposite side of the original seating surface, creating a flat and comfortable mattress.
Fully crash tested, TUV approved with ISOFIX, RIB beds are deemed to be much safer than most rock and roll beds.
At the rear we have a classic east to west fixed double bed which features a recessed design with ambient lighting – a hallmark of Vango Fitouts‘ conversions.
Key features:
↠ Fixed double bed (east to west)
↠ Uberflux sliding RIB bed (seats/sleeps 2)
↠ Removable birch table – stores above cab
🔍 Click photos to expand
Plumbing & Bathroom
In this Sprinter van conversion, the emphasis has been placed on the essentials for a fulfilling van life experience for 4 people. Achieving such a comprehensive blend of seating, sleeping, dining, and kitchen facilities within the confines of a medium wheelbase van necessitates thoughtful compromises, one of which is the absence of an internal shower and toilet.
The design philosophy behind this build prioritises living and adventure rather than dedicating square footage to bathroom facilities. With this in mind, this set-up is perhaps best for a mix of off-grid park ups and campsites.
There is a high power hose fitted in the garage – handy for cleaning the bikes off, but no hot water system.
Key features:
↠ Concealed kitchen sink
↠ Internal water tank (70L)
↠ High power hose fitted in garage
Kitchen
The gas free kitchen in this Mercedes Sprinter campervan is crafted with a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, embodying a minimalist yet stylish Scandinavian-inspired design.
This choice of ply for the cabinetry, coupled with the clean lines and efficient use of space, reflects a modern, eco-friendly approach to van life, with a focus on sustainability and simplicity.
Furthermore, the cabinet fronts have been carefully selected to ensure the wood grain matches, highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to detail in this custom conversion.
Key features:
↠ Birch ply cabinetry
↠ Concealed sink
↠ Portable induction hob
↠ Pull-out pantry with soft-close mechanisms
↠ Push-to-lock latches
↠ Flip-up worktop extension
↠ Fridge with freezer compartment
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage
While the full extension of the RIB bed does take up some storage space, the cleverly designed variety of storage solutions throughout the van more than compensates for it. This build is rich with storage options for both recreational gear and van life necessities!
For us, the star of the show in this adventure-ready build is the pull-out tray with bike rack in the garage.
Key features:
↠ Pull-out bike tray with 120 kg locking sliders
↠ Rear garage storage area
↠ Dedicated space for bike wheels
↠ Pull-out pantry with soft-close mechanisms
↠ Open shelving matched in birch ply
↠ Tall cupboards with accessible shelves
↠ Over-cab storage
↠ Overhead cabinets above the bed, equipped with gas lifts for easy access
🔍 Click photos to expand
The sliding bike storage tray in the garage is the standout storage feature in this conversion.
Built to suit two full-size adult bikes, the bike tray operates on heavy-duty sliders capable of supporting up to 120 kilograms. These locking sliders ensure that the tray extends smoothly for easy loading and unloading, while also locking securely in place when fully extended or the vehicle is in motion.
To secure the bikes, the tray features a rail system with adjustable spoke locks. These locks can be moved and tightened around the bike spokes, providing a secure fit for various bike sizes and types.
There’s also a wheel storage area beside the bike tray, offering a convenient spot to keep bike wheels or additional gear.
Lighting
The diverse lighting options within this Mercedes Sprinter campervan play a crucial role in creating a warm, inviting, and functional interior environment.
From task lighting that facilitates cooking and reading to ambient lighting that sets the mood for relaxation, every aspect of van life experience is catered for. We love the balance of ambient and natural lighting in this home on wheels.
Key features:
↠ Feature lighting at the foot of the bed
↠ Hidden LED tracking beneath overhead cabinets
↠ Central spotlights
↠ Recessed shelf lighting
↠ LED lighting in garage
🔍 Click photos to expand
Heating
This homely van has a seamlessly integrated diesel heating system, ensuring a cosy interior, perfect for year-round adventures. The efficient diesel heater, thoughtfully boxed in, melds perfectly with the van’s interior design, maintaining both the streamlined aesthetic and functionality of the living space.
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Mercedes Sprinter Camper Van Exterior
This used Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van is an ex RNLI Rescue Support vehicle. The exterior of this panel van has been left largely untouched.
Windows
A unique feature of this conversion are the split contrast rear door windows – the lower panel is removable to access electrics etc. The windows are finished with curved surround, and a birch ply sill.
Key features:
↠ Rear split contrast windows with privacy glass
↠ Birch ply sills
↠ Side window with privacy glass to side door
Rooflights
Lighting is an impressive feature in this conversion. Ambient LED recess lights and overhead spotlights are complemented by two rooflights.
Key features:
↠ Heki Dometic Midi Rooflight over the bed
↠ Central skylight with extractor fan
Other Upgrades
Being a 4×4 Sprinter, this van has that extra bit of extra height. Aluminium pop-out steps have been fitted for ease of access.
Sprinter Adventure Van with Off-grid Power
This converted Mercedes Sprinter campervan boasts an impressive off-grid, gasless power set-up designed to support sustainable and autonomous living on the road – fully kitted out with gear from vanlife favourites – Victron and Roamer.
But not only is this set-up highly functional, there are also thoughtful touches such as a cubbyhole USB charging station by the bed, and the Cerbo GX system monitor – perfect for real-time tracking of power usage and system status.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
Key features:
↠ Victron Energy MultiPlus Inverter/Charger – 12V 800VA/35A
↠ Victron Orion-Tr Smart – Isolated DC-DC Charger
↠ 300Ah Roamer battery (Lithium)
↠ Victron Cerbo GX system monitor
↠ Victron Lynx Distributor
↠ Solar panel (350W) & MPPT controller
↠ Electric hook-up
🔍 Click photos to expand
Vanlife Verdict: Conclusion
With a luxury RIB bed and premium bike storage tray, this set-up not only maximises the interior space of the medium wheelbase Sprinter, but also caters to the dynamic needs of adventure seekers, providing a cosy, adaptable living environment on the go.
– Vanlife Hub team
We also admire the powerful simplicity of the the storage in this conversion. While it’s tempting to just add as much storage as possible, the true value lies in its relevance to your needs.
Rather than simply adding more compartments, the smarter approach is to choose in advance the specific items you plan to travel with—be it bikes, surfboards, or any IT gear, etc. Tailoring storage solutions around these essentials, as we see so skillfully done here, ensures that every inch of space supports your van life.
Our final verdict?
This dream camper proves that compact living doesn’t have to compromise on functionality or style.
It masterfully balances the challenge of fitting essential amenities into a medium wheelbase Sprinter, providing living space, a versatile kitchen, and comfortable sleeping arrangements for 4 people without sacrificing aesthetics.
While the absence of built-in bathroom facilities might limit its appeal for those who also need fully self-sufficient off-grid capabilities, this van more than makes up for it. It is a tailored, adventure-ready home on wheels, thoughtfully designed for those wanting to embrace off-road adventures.
🌟 We absolutely love this space-saving conversion from the team at Vango Fitouts UK. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Please note: Vanlife Hub’s campervan reviews are unbiased and unpaid, offering genuine insights into the intricacies of vanlife conversions. Check out more reviews: Campervan Tours and get in touch if you’d like to be featured!
Camper Van Conversion Ideas
If you’re looking to build or commission a campervan project, check-out these for more camper van conversion ideas:
FAQs About the Mercedes Sprinter MWB Campervan
What makes a medium wheelbase (MWB) Sprinter suitable for a campervan conversion?
The MWB Sprinter’s suitability for campervan conversions stems from its optimal balance between manoeuvrability and space.
Its size allows for easier driving and parking in both urban and rural settings, compared to its larger counterparts, but there’s still sufficient interior space. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile and practical base vehicle for conversion.
How does the interior space of an MWB Sprinter compare to that of a long wheelbase (LWB) model?
All Sprinter vans have a maximum load width of 1,780mm, but thanks to the shorter length (3265mm compared to 4300mm), a MWB Sprinter offers a more compact living space when compared to the LWB model.
With more floor space, the LWB can accommodate more elaborate layouts or additional amenities, but as we see in this van tour, the MWB is a really great camper for those who want to balance space with manoeuvrability and affordability.
Can you stand up in a MWB Sprinter?
The medium wheelbase Sprinter is available in 3 heights – standard, high roof, and super-high roof. With an interior height of 5’4″ (without flooring, insulation and lining), the standard height is too short for standing.
You can, however, stand up comfortably in the high and super-high roof Sprinter models. The high roof model has an interior height of 6’4″ and the super-high comes in at 7’0″.
How much does it cost to convert a MWB Sprinter?
The cost of converting a MWB Sprinter into a campervan varies widely based on factors such as the level of customisation, the quality of materials used, and whether the work is done professionally or DIY.
A basic self-build Sprinter conversion can cost as little as £1,000 (excluding base van), but typically we’d anticipate at least £5,000 for full off-grid capabilities with heating, lighting, furnishings, and insulation. More luxurious custom conversions may cost upwards of £15,000 – £25,000 or more.
Check out this article for pricing case studies: Revealing the True Cost of Campervan Conversions.
How much do professional campervan conversions cost?
Professional camper conversions can range significantly in price, from around £10,000 for basic modifications to £80,000+ for high-end, fully customised builds.
The cost reflects the craftsmanship, materials, complexity of the design, plus the cost of high-quality finishes, bespoke furniture, and advanced electrical and plumbing systems.
Check out this article for more information about campervans for sale: Revealing the True Cost of Campervan Conversions.
Are Sprinter campervans reliable?
Sprinter campervans are known for their reliability and durability, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts. Built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, they benefit from the manufacturer’s reputation for engineering excellence. Regular maintenance and care can further extend their lifespan, ensuring they remain a dependable home on wheels for years to come.
However, as with any vehicle, the reliability of older models can vary, so thorough inspection and maintenance history checks are recommended when purchasing a campervan or sale.
Check out this article on how to avoid scams when buying a camper for more tips.
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