AT THE HEART OF THE ROAD TRANSPORT INDUSTRY.

Call our Sales Team on 0208 912 2120

Makeover marvels

2nd September 2004
Page 70
Page 71
Page 70, 2nd September 2004 — Makeover marvels
Close
Noticed an error?
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.

Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

This week's product focus looks at two big hitters in the used van market: the Citroen Relay 1800 and the Mercedes-Benz 311CDI.

Vehicle: Citroen Relay 1800 2.2HD1 Tested: 2 January 2003 Specifications Engine: PSA DVV12 charge-cooled turbo diesel with common-rail injection Maximum power: 103hp (77kW) at 4,00Orpm Maximum torque: 240Nm (1 771bf-t) at 1 ,90Orpm Transmission: Five-speed synchromesh manual box Terms of warranty: Two years/unlimited dis tance or three years/100,000 miles, including Citroen Assist Test payload: 1 ,430kg Operational trial results Average speed: 63.2km/h (39.3mph) Average fuel consumption: 28.5mpg (9.91it/1 00km) The lowdown The Citroen Relay does not represent a revolutionary move forward. But behind the new headlamps and bigger badge it has quietly evolved to keep in touch with the challenges of an increasingly sophisticated marketplace.

Manufacturers are constantly being urged to make the driver's life a better one; the Relay's improved accommodation and driving characteristics certainly do that. And the accountant will appreciate the latest clean, efficient engine, Citroen's keen pricing and a generous warranty. Vehicle: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 311CDI Tested: 10 April 2003 Specifications Engine: MB 0M611 DELA charge-cooled turbo-diesel with common-rail injection Power: 109hp (80kW) at 3,800rpm Torque: 270Nm (1991bft) at 1,400-2,400rpm Transmission: MB 032-5 synchromesh overdrive box Terms of warranty: Three years/unlimited distance Test payload: 1,555kg Operational trial results Average speed: 67.7km/h (42.1mph). Average fuel consumption: 31,3mpg (9.01it/1 00km)

The lowdown

When a vehicle has been around for eight years there's a tendency to look for its replacement coming over the horizon, but Mercedes has freshened up the Sprinter and there's plenty of life left in it yet. It is a strong competitor. which can punch its way from middleweight right up to cruiser weight at six tonnes.

This new-look Sprinter 311 CDI produced a decent fuel result; it's been with us on long-term test and we noticed a distinct improvement over the six months of service. The interior is subtle and should age well. If we have one criticism it's a generic one about three-seater cabs not being comfortable for three people.That aside, the Sprinter 311 is about as good as it gets.

Tags


comments powered by Disqus