I traded my 2011 Sprinter 2500 144wb for a new Promaster 2500 159 wb last week, and picked up my first load this week from Dallas TX to Tampa FL. I just delivered a second shipment near Fort Lauderdale. I'm at 1593 miles, and averaging 17.1-17.6 mpg (calculated three ways). The last 300 miles driven here in Florida were with 20 mph crosswinds and headwinds with my speed at 70-75 mph (the shipment had tight deadlines) in 75 degree temps (moderate humidity). I've run two+ tanks on 87 octane, one on 89 and one on 92. 87 octane gave me the best fuel economy.
The Promaster is as stable as the Sprinter in windy conditions. But the Sprinter's 185 hp diesel engine is much better at handling even the smallest highway incline (like a freeway overpass). The Promaster downshifts every time, with the rpms jumping from 2000 up above 3200, which destroys my fuel economy. I am very lightfooted when I drive (to save fuel), and it makes no difference. And I don't have a heavy load yet--the first was 250 lbs and the second was 10, and I have about 100 lbs of equipment on the van. In these conditions the Sprinter would be right at 19 mpg with the same loads.
I am hoping to get out of here tomorrow headed somewhere. I do like the extra 500 lb payload and longer load floor, which equals more revenue in this cutthroat business. I'll give some more pros and cons after my next run.
The Promaster is as stable as the Sprinter in windy conditions. But the Sprinter's 185 hp diesel engine is much better at handling even the smallest highway incline (like a freeway overpass). The Promaster downshifts every time, with the rpms jumping from 2000 up above 3200, which destroys my fuel economy. I am very lightfooted when I drive (to save fuel), and it makes no difference. And I don't have a heavy load yet--the first was 250 lbs and the second was 10, and I have about 100 lbs of equipment on the van. In these conditions the Sprinter would be right at 19 mpg with the same loads.
I am hoping to get out of here tomorrow headed somewhere. I do like the extra 500 lb payload and longer load floor, which equals more revenue in this cutthroat business. I'll give some more pros and cons after my next run.