Sprinter 310 or 311?

[ntomkins]

I am looking at two sprinters. I want to buy one........but which one?

2000 on a V, 310 (turbo) 2.9 with 110k miles

2001, 311 2.2 with 145k miles

How do the power figures compare? reliability? any other issues to look out for? MPG?

thanks

 

[Sprint'n'Go]

OK, just digging out the spec sheets,.........

Sprinter 310

OM 602 LA 2874cc inline 5cyl

power - 102hp at 3400rpm
torque - 250Nm at 2000rpm

Sprinter 311CDI

OM 611 DE22LA 2150cc inline 4cyl

power - 109hp at 3800rpm
torque - 270Nm at 1400-2400rpm

The 311 is the more modern engine (and still in use in the latest generation sprinter) and its diminuitive size should give better economy over the older bigger engine while trumping it in the power/torque stakes at the same time.
The long flat section on the torque graphs for the 311 translates into superb drivability and my 2001 311 had a large luton box on it but still proved adequate. If you are only looking at panel vans then either engine will break the speed limit with ease.

The only considerations that could make you go for the older engine are -

Price, the 310 should be cheaper as despite the lower milage it is an older model with older looks.

Reliability, The bigger, lower powered 310 must be a less stressed engine so in theory should last longer? (you do still see the earlier 310/312 sprinter plying their courier trade up and down the M/way).

Condition, At this age/milage either van could have been so badly abused that they are little better than scrap but buy with care and you could get a bargain with loads of life left in it that will not hurt the wallet with painful depreciation (if only I could follow my own advice!)

The only problem with the 311 (and probably the 310 but not sure about that one) is that it doesn't have ABS as standard and not many people spec it as the cost was not far short of the extra the 313 cost with ABS as standard. The way these vans can motor ABS is a real benefit especialy when you come across standing traffic in the fast lane of a spray soaked M/way.

 

[ntomkins]

thanks Steve, all that is a great help.

After looking at the 310 tonight, I think I am going to increase my budget and spend a little more to get a younger/less abused 311!
And the ABS sounds like its worth its money, if you can get it.

Thanks again!