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Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 V 280 (174 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 237 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2031 kg, it’s on the heavier side. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 12.7 s). The top speed reaches 187 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 280 (174 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The most powerful petrol engine, providing strong acceleration and excellent highway cruising capability for a van.
Fuel Economy
Very high fuel consumption, making it an expensive option to run, especially with frequent or heavy use.
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 280 (174 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1999 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Minivan |
| Seats: | 7 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 174 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 62.3 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 237 Nm @ 2800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 104.900 More details about the engine M 104.900 |
| Engine displacement: | 2792 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.4 l |
| Coolant: | 12.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 81 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 90.3 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.1:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 13.8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 187 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 8.6 kg/Nm, 116.7 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 12.1 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2031 |
| Max. weight: | 2700 |
| Max load: | 669 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 78 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4660 mm |
| Width: | 1880 mm |
| Height: | 1844 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 3000 mm |
| 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 | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
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