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Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 V 230 (143 Hp)
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz Vito:
The Mercedes-Benz Vito is a mid-sized light commercial vehicle produced by Mercedes-Benz, available as a panel van, chassis cab, or multi-purpose vehicle , carrying cargo or up to eight passengers. In the Mercedes-Benz van lineup, it is positioned between the larger Sprinter and the smaller Citan.
The Vito refers to the cargo van variant for commercial use; when passenger accommodations are substituted for part or all of the load area, it is known as the Vito Traveliner, V-Class or Viano. The Traveliner/V-Class/Viano is a large MPV....(Read more on Wikipedia)
W638 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz Vito (W638). With 215 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1971 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 15.1 s). The top speed reaches 174 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.
The Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features were typical for a commercial vehicle of its era, primarily including ABS.
V 230 (143 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Similar power to the manual V 230, but the automatic gearbox slightly dulls acceleration, making it feel less responsive.
Fuel Economy
Slightly worse fuel economy than the manual version, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, increasing running costs.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Spacious and versatile interior, ideal for families or commercial use.
- • Comfortable ride quality for a van, especially on longer journeys.
- • Good range of engines, including efficient CDI diesels.
- • Mercedes-Benz badge offers a perception of quality and durability.
- • Front-wheel drive layout provides good interior space and handling.
Cons:
- • Prone to rust, particularly around wheel arches and sills.
- • Older petrol engines are very thirsty, leading to high running costs.
- • Some electrical issues and build quality concerns reported.
- • Lack of modern safety features compared to newer vehicles.
- • Interior plastics can feel utilitarian and show wear over time.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W638: 1996 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | Vito |
| Generation: | W638 |
| Modification (Engine): | V 230 (143 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1999 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Minivan |
| Seats: | 7 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 143 Hp @ 5200 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 62.3 Hp/l [1mm more] |
| Torque: | 215 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 111 E23 More details about the engine M 111 E23 |
| Engine displacement: | 2295 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 7.5 l |
| Coolant: | 8.7 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Compression ratio: | 10.4:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 11.5 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 15.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 174 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 13.8 kg/Hp, 72.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 9.2 kg/Nm, 109.1 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 14.3 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1971 |
| Max. weight: | 2700 |
| Max load: | 729 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 78 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4660 mm mm [1mm more] |
| Width: | 1880 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1844 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 3000 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1620 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1630 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 9.9 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R15 |
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