Vans are the most common platform for modern nomadic living. This includes Passenger vans and Cargo vans.
Why a van? What are some other vehicle options?
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Van comparison
come in various sizes, shapes, and capacities. Narrowing it down to one or two models can help you avoid analysis paralysis. These page attempts to collect specifications which you can consider (or not) based on your own needs.
Footnotes are in place so you can check sources for yourself. Don't trust anyone else's judgement on what van you need. It's your life, and it's your house!
There are basic sections on American cargo vans, Eurovans, and minicargo vans on other wiki pages.
Useful diagram for factory interior dimensions.
Living area comparison
off pavement comparison
The approach and departure angles tells you how steep a grade you can drive onto or off without dragging the front or rear end, usually the bumper. Receiver hitches will usually reduce departure angle.
capacity comparison
total Cost of Ownership comparison
Some calculations of gas Eurovans based on NADA information, originally from this blog post. Sprinter left out but Express included; it was not a Eurovan-specific post.
annual repair costs
Compiled from repairpal data, Jan 2020.
3/4 ton vans:
- Nissan NV1500, $825/yr
- Ford Transit 150 , $963/yr
- Chevy Express 1500, $972/yr
- Ford E-250, $1070/yr
- Ram ProMaster 1500, $1072/yr
- (no figures available for Sprinter)
minicargos:
- Nissan NV200, $645/yr
- Ram ProMaster City, $795/yr
- Ford Transit Connect, $926
minivans:
- Honda Odyssey, $547/yr
- Toyota Sienna, $554/yr
- Dodge Grand Caravan / Chrysler T&C, $646/yr
- Nissan Quest, $659/yr
warranty comparison
further reading
We're the Russos has an excellent article on eurovan pro/con.