Ford diamond t only had about 200 bhp and could tow a mountain ! Its all about gearing not bhp , modern cars are built lightweight with economical gear ratios .
I think Transits are more van than car like when comparing them to Trafics and Vivaros*...?
And they are too associated with the other type of 'traveller'....
Boss has a Vivaro. It's half converted with the seats behind the fronts, which is why I would now consider a van as a tug, rather than another 4x4, or a big car...
(No need for 4x4 now in job, but still need a decent sized tug).
Some caravan manufacturers void your warranty if towing with a Commercial vehicle something to do with the suspension being unforgiving and shaking the furniture apart.
I do think the the traffic is a smart looking van but I bet they are no were near as heavy as you'd expect.
The transits the better van by far . Ive had them all the vivaro / traffic / nissan are unreliable . Injector probs, wiring issues ,gearbox probs.the new vivaro is only a 1.6 ive got a new transit custom double cab van tows superbly, had no probs with sites .
Since you are in a position of changing the car at the same time as buying a van, start by selecting the van you want to buy, as its MTPLM will then determine the kerbweight required and tow weight capability of the new car.
Lots of good advice above. With 30+ years of towing, I would include as many of these factors as possible:
4x4 - weight gives stability on the road. May have self-leveling rear suspension. Easy to load boot
Diesel for economy
Auto for relaxed driving / manoeuvering
The latest ones are 1.6 , the gearboxes on the first shape ones had a built in fault .mine had to be replaced at 60000.
Injector and wiring problems where also a major nightmare. Buying a second hand van is a lottery they tend to have a hard life . Good luck.
Quote: Originally posted by richardandjo2010 on 05/1/2017
Vans can be a good choice but I think some sites wont allow them so your camping choice may be limited
If your van has side windows and rear seats fitted (and no ladders on the roof), you should not have any problem at most sites although it may be advisable to phone and check prior to booking.