GMC and Freightliner Cargo Vans Are Two Workhorses – Find Out How

If you are looking at cargo vans for sale such as the GMC and the Freightliner, you will notice that they are very simple looking, nothing so luxurious. These vehicles are never fancy, just workhorses that complete the task in the most effective manner and quickest time. The design of the cargo vans for sale comprises of three windows only, two are side windows and the third is the windshield. Depending on what they are generally used for, these cargo vans can come in different colors of the exterior body, but noticeably, most of them are white. The sides of the body, when used by business enterprises, may contain the logo of the company. Today you will find the latter models or newer cargo vans for sale to have better style and features than the older models. The changes though could not be considered much as compared to cars, pick-ups and other vehicles; they are very marginal. Most engines are of the V6 kinds and these are proved to be fuel efficient.

GMC Savana And Safari Vans – Why opt for these commercial vehicles?

GMC or General Motors Corporation had been one of the industry leaders in offering different used cargo vans and it has been noted for the vans’ dependability and affordability.

GMC Savana – 2010

It has introduced a more powerful model in the 6.0-liter V8 engine that produces 323 horsepower. This equipped the vehicle with the ability to pull heavy loads up to 460 feet pounds of torque. Available in the 6.0L V8 are the 1500, 2500 and 3500 models. The 2500 series, middle range models, had been tested for 14 mpg fuel efficiency within city driving. The fuel consumption varies depending on the models and the vehicle’s weight. The GMC Savana 2010 used cargo vans also come in 4.6L V8 which produces 280 horsepower. This has a lower loading capacity but then, this is more fuel efficient that those with bigger engines. All models have options for the two-wheel and all-wheel propulsion. Regardless of the model and configuration, the GMC Savana has a wide range of cargo and passenger body interiors. The major criticism on this is the quality of plastic used in the construction of the passenger compartments.

GMC Savana – 2011

The GMC Savana van competes with the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford e-Series in popularity and attractiveness. This is available in one, half and quarter ton weight classes. It can come in regular and long wheelbases and has five different engine choices. The four diverse models are cargo van, 15 passenger, conversion and cut-away.

For the 2011 models of Savana, you can go for the best trim – the 3500 passenger van with Duramax turbo diesel engine. This van also features the electronic stability system. For buyers of this van, you can opt for the Wi-Fi internet option that is installed by the dealer. An examination of the van’s exterior shows a trapezoidal grille that has a large GMC badge. It is also equipped with upscale reflector headlights. The cargo model is regular in length while the passenger model can be a choice between the regular and extended lengths. There are side access panels. On the basis of the van’s configuration, the Savana passenger van can carry 8, 12 or 15 passengers. The interior also features remote vehicle start, dealer-installed optional Wi-Fi internet and standard air conditioner.

How the Savana compares with Its counterparts

In a scale of 1 to 5 in passenger vans, the 2011 GMC Savana ranks number four. This ranking may not be generalized but only based on several reviews and test drives. The 2011 GMC Savana has lot of things to offer. Buyers can find the 2011 GMC used cargo vans for sale powerful with their Duramax diesel engines. These have lots of space cargoes and passenger capacity but they are lacking in performance and luxury. Although the Savana is able to transport a bigger number of people and more cargoes, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is still larger. When maneuverability is taken into consideration, the Ford Transit Connect proves better. For both the Savana and Chevy Express, they are comparable in being box-on-wheel work vans. The Savana used cargo vans tie with the Chevrolet Express and Ford E-Series in towing capacity. These vehicles can tow as much as 10,000 pounds when all are configured correctly. Although this Savana is adjudged to be the most fuel efficient, it falls behind in towing and hauling capacities.

GMC Safari used step vans

Regarding engine specifications, the GMC Safari is outfitted with 4.3 liter V6 engine with 150 to 200 horsepower. There are three different transmission options in the different models of GMC Safari. These are the four wheel drive, all wheel drive and rear wheel drive. The notable safety feature lies in the van’s anti-lock system that has been enhanced by the four wheel disc brakes. The body also has an exceptional design. With three doors, the Safari step van has different external specifications which all depend on the model of the van. There are two different wheelbase lengths – 111 and 176.8 inches. The width is 39.50 feet and the height is 74.5 inches.

Also called walk-in van, a brand of the used step van that can lure you to its purchase is the GMC Safari. This used step van model has a 4.3 liter V6 engine and it delivers from 150 to 200 horsepower. Choosing this model gives you 3 transmission options – all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. This is very fuel efficient at 16 mpg city cruising. Standard safety spec of the GMC Safari step van is the anti-lock brake system which a driver can adequately control. External specifications of the Safari step van vary with models. The 1992 step van for instance, has three doors while the cargo van model is equipped with a curb weight of 3,503 pounds. This is a tall van with 74.5-inch height set on two lengths of wheelbases – 111 and 176.8 inches.

Freightliner cargo vans

You might be searching for cargo vans for sale with exceptional qualities and you will surely find the features of a Freightliner van up to your specifications and expectations. But first, do not be confused when you are given the same qualities of a Dodge Sprinter. These two vans, Dodge Sprinter and Freightliner are the same vans.

The first quality of cargo vans for sale is measure through the efficiency and power of the vehicle’s engine. The Freightliner had been designed with a 2.7-liter 5-cylinder turbo diesel engine. This motor is rated with 154 horsepower and 243 pound feet of torque. It is very fuel efficient – more than the other full-sized vans in its class. The high fuel efficiency will translate to great savings. The drawback however is on its towing capacity. At a 5,000 pound towing capacity, it lags behind the 6,000 to 10,000 pounds capacity of the Chevy and Econoline, respectively. The Freightliner is a tall van and it has three roof heights. The body has two lengths of wheelbases. Whether you opt for the diesel or gas fuel, this cargo van for sale features electronic sliding doors, 12-seating capacity and front swivel buckets. This van is available in passenger or cargo versions.

Two Freightliner models – 2008 and 2011

Used or new, these Freightliner vans are very durable. Choosing between a used and a brand-new kind is easy decided on if you have the budget. A brand new 2011 Freightliner costs about $45,000. Its 2008 used counterpart can be bought half its price, approximately $22,000. These two models have a slight difference in engine as the 2008 model’s engine is MBE 3.0 liter V6 with 154 horsepower. The 2011 model’s engine is MBE 3.0 liter V6 with 188 horsepower. Both were designed with 5-speed automatic transmission. Their frame is the same – made of steel. However, the height of the roof differs. The 2008 model is 2500 high roof and the 2011 model is 3500 high roof. Although these two differ in roof height, they have the same wheel bases, measuring 170 inches. Both are power steering and they both have a fuel capacity of 26 gallons.

3 Models of 2011 Freightliner – cargo, passenger, crew

The three models – cargo, passenger and crew Freightliner Sprinter vans are boasting of being the best in its class. The cargo model comes in 3 trims – 1500, 2500 and 3500. It has a maximum payload capacity of 5,358 pounds. The cargo capacity is 547 cubic feet. It is best in its class for its height wherein a person 6 feet 6 inches tall can comfortably stand inside the body. The opening of its side door is 6 x 4.25 feet and has provision for interior compartment access. The rear door has a 270 degree opening. The passenger model comes in the 2500 model. With exception of the payload and cargo capacities, all other features of a cargo van are found in the passenger model. This has a seating capacity of 12 people. Behind the rear bench is the area for baggage and cargo. Total maximum cargo volume is 187 cubic feet. The crew van differs from the cargo van in the payload and cargo capacities; this having a 3,187 pounds and 380 cubic feet payload and cargo capacities, respectively. There are two options for the wheelbase length – 144 and 170 inches. There is also available option for the standard and high roof.

Comparing the features of 3 Freightliner vans

 

The 3 models are the Freightliner MT45 P500, P700 and P1000. The P500 is equipped with a Morgan Olson 12 foot body. It has a Mercedes diesel engine and a sliding bulkhead door. The body has been customized with aluminum fold-up shelving that is compliant to FedEx requirement. The P700 is built with a 4.3 liter Mercedes Benz diesel engine, coupled with Allison automatic transmission. The rear door is a roll-up design and it has a lockable bulkhead. There is a side door for passengers. The body has aluminum shelving that is also compliant to the requirements of FedEx. P1000 also has a 4.3 liter Mercedes Benz diesel engine and Allison automatic transmission. Just like any other Freightliner model, this has FedEx specified aluminum shelving. There is a roll-up rear door and a passenger side door. For all models, the body is crafted by Utilimaster and the price includes all the installed decals. Fire extinguishers and back cameras are added features of the Freightliner used step van for sale.

In choosing the cargo van, GMC or Freightliner or even Chevy and Dodge, the choice of transmission and the kind of drive are important factors. Although there is preference for automatic, transmission, this is more expensive than the manual transmission. However, the manual kind has some advantages.

Cargo vans with manual transmission

In cars, there is a preference for the automatic type because if affords easy driving and maneuverability. But there is also good use for the manual types. So – let us examine 3 of the popular manual used cargo vans for sale. Consider the offer from Ford. This is the manual Econoline. In choosing this model from the list of used cargo vans for sale, you will find that there are 4.5 and 5.4 liter engines. Both are 16 Valve V18 and the V8 attribute gives the power for hauling and towing. The interior is easy to maintain but the seats, in comparison to the Chevy and Sprinter, has thinner cushions. The manual type of the Dodge Sprinter has 10 passenger seating capacity. It comes in two models – 2500 and 3500. Both have superb power in towing and hauling. This comes in a variation of trims, from the base to the high end trim models. One noted drawback with the Dodge Sprinter is the resale value which is lower than the competitor used cargo vans for sale. The Chevrolet Express has been adjudged as the top vehicle of the 3 models. It has great seating capacities and power for hauling. It comes in 2500, 3500 and 3500 EXT models and all can be used as passenger or cargo transportation. The wheel base can be opted to be standard or extended.

Choosing an all-wheel drive van

All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are also known as 4 x 4 vans. The 4 x 4 types of cargo vans for sale are more powerful than the 2 x 4 vehicle. Among the 4 x 4 vans that are available in the market, you can opt for the Ford Econoline. You should understand the reason for choosing this model and brand of vehicle. Two notable characteristics of the Ford Econoline 4 x 4 vans are vehicle stability and engineering safety. As far as vehicle stability is concerned, a four-wheel drive has been built with all outstanding safety features. There is factory braking systems which include a four-wheel ABS. The solid front axle of the 4 x 4 model passes the motor vehicle safety test on the brake system. Despite having high height, the Ford AWD van was able to retain its stability. The Ford has a solid axle that functions to add stiffness to the suspension. The stability factor here is limiting the body roll. Ford engineering safety encompasses the vehicle’s crash test. To attain this, the vehicle was equipped with structural integrity that will stand the crash. The gas tank was modified to provide clearance for the added parts and components.

In the past, it was believed that the all-wheel drive vehicles are only for rough terrain, mountains, desserts and snow. Today, you do not have to wait for adverse weather conditions to have a used cargo van with the all-power wheel drive. Many Americans are for these kinds of vehicles now – being more comfortable with more passenger seating capacity. When transporting precious goods, the AWD used cargo van provides the load with more safety and security. The four-wheel or all-wheel drive van provides more control when traversing different kinds of surfaces because of its traction. Whether the road is wet, muddy or icy because of adverse weather conditions, the van can have more control because all the four wheels are in action. These vehicles will be able to go through rough and bumpy terrain. They also have enough power to tow other vehicles that would need emergency assistance. All of these are due to the extraordinary traction. Top rated for the AWD used cargo vans are the Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series and GMC Savana.

You will discover that at this time, the used cargo vans for sale have never gone down in the desirability. You can easily find your chosen cargo van onsite and online. Many buyers are very conscious of the brand of the van and there are four different manufacturers who share the big demand for used cargo vans for sale. The four big manufacturers are the Ford, Chevrolet, General Motors Corporation or GMC and Dodge. As you take a look at the models of the vans manufactured by all of these four, you will notice that there were not much major innovations made, only some upgrades. These four brands are well distributed among different dealers of used cargo vans for sale. Today, many companies that are in need of hauling vehicles seek out either the brand new or used vehicles. Many starting small companies go for the used cargo van as this will require little budget; these companies will look for units that are in good running condition. Dependent upon the year or model, the vans can be acquired at fairly cheap prices. The bigger companies seek vans either to add to their fleet or to replace their already existing older vehicles.