Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 V 230 (143 Hp) Manual 5-speed


Overall Rating

6.6 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 210 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 2000 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 14.5 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.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
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) Manual 5-speed Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers adequate power for daily driving and light loads, but acceleration is leisurely, especially when fully laden.

Fuel Economy

High fuel consumption, particularly in urban environments, making it less economical for frequent use compared to diesel options.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving, suitable for those who prefer petrol and don't prioritize ultimate fuel efficiency.

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(eVito (W447, Facelift 2019) Long: 2019 - ).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:Vito
Generation:W638
Modification (Engine):V 230 (143 Hp) Manual 5-speed
Start of production:August, 1996
End of production:February, 1999
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:143 Hp @ 5000 rpm. [0hp less]
Power per litre:62.3 Hp/l [worst than previous generation]
Torque:210 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 111 E 23 / 111.978 More details about the engine M 111 E 23 / 111.978
Engine displacement:2295
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:7.5 l
Coolant:8.7 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:90.9 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88.4 mm mm
Compression ratio:8.8:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:16.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:11.6 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:14.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:14.5 sec
Maximum speed:174 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:14 kg/Hp, 71.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:9.5 kg/Nm, 105 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:13.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2000
Max. weight:2630
Max load:630
Fuel tank capacity:78 l
Size:
Length:4659 mm mm [481mm less]
Width:1880 mm mm [48mm less]
Height:1844 mm mm [101mm less]
Wheelbase:3000 mm mm [200mm less]
Front track:1620 mm
Rear (Back) track:1630 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires sizeFront wheel tires: 195/70 R15
Wheel rims sizeFront wheel rims: 6J x 15
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionTrailing arm

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Mercedes-Benz Vito?