Engine size advice please (1 Viewer)

May 12, 2011
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Over the last 25 years, always had vans of a similar spec., 6-6.5m long, 3500kg and engine sizes increasing from 2.5 litre (1991 Kon Tiki 600/5) to our current 6m Hymer with a 3.0 litre fiat engine.
I'm going to look at a 7m van next week, automatic, 4200kg but with a 2.2 litre Merc (163hp) engine.
Before taking a test drive, I'd appreciate any feedback regarding the smaller engine, what's the informed view on the performance - thanks.
 

MC 55 FUN

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Feb 18, 2016
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The Euro emission control standard ( Euro 4 / 5 / 6 ) for example, can affect engine performance, as can whether a DPF is fitted or not.

What year is the M.H. / engine ?
 
R

Robert Clark

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We've got a 4.2 tone A class with a 150bhp 2.3 litre engine
Drives a treat and is economical too, averaging over 30 mpg at 2000 revs on motorway (60 mph)
Will easily travel at 70 mph
I understand that Fiat has now discontinued larger engines

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MillieMoocher

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Jul 18, 2015
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Our 7m Hymer has the 163 bhp 2.2 engine with auto box, although our van is a nit lighter having been up plated from 3500 to 3850.

It seemed a but light on power when it was new, but 2,500 miles later it's certainly freed up.

Interestingly, when driving up the M5 yesterday I did mention to Swmbo that I was glad we didn't opt for the bigger Merc engine as it would be a waste of money. I like to cruise at 55 to 60 even on dual carriageway or motorway, and it's happy at that speed whether on flat or uphill. It also has enough power in reserve to get the wrong side of 70 quickly should the need arise.

Generally runs at around 11L per 100Km which is about 25 mpg.

We have the cruise control too, which if you can get it is a great feature. Merc cruise control doesn't let speed drop uphill, and will brake on downhill sections so as to avoid the thing running away.

Given the speed restrictions on a heavier van, I'd think you'll be fine with a 2.2 163 bhp Merc power unit.

But this is just my opinion!
 
Jun 10, 2010
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Shrewsbury (sometimes)
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N&B Clou Liner MAN
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IMO where the 3 litre Fiat comes into its own is on the hills, we re rarely off cruise control.

Theres an old Motorcycle maxim - Horsepower sells bikes but torque wins races.

I Know the 2.3 fiat are belt driven whereas the 3 litre is chain, Mercs used to be chains but might be worth checking.

Jon
 
Aug 18, 2011
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since 2007.Tugger before since 1970
We've got a 4.2 tone A class with a 150bhp 2.3 litre engine
Drives a treat and is economical too, averaging over 30 mpg at 2000 revs on motorway (60 mph)
Will easily travel at 70 mph
I understand that Fiat has now discontinued larger engines
i used to drive a 32 ton truck with only a 150 bhp Gardener engine in it. 500 miles most days...

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dave newell

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Oct 31, 2008
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TTW!!! Torque Turns Wheels, its the oldest saying in the motor industry. Modern diesels turn out stump pulling torque from almost idling revs and the 2.2 Merc lump is no exception. Fear not, it will have far more performance available than you will want to use.

D.
 

musson

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Dec 25, 2013
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We had a 2.3 130bhp and changed to 3ltr, comformatic 2012 up to now have not noticed any difference in fuel consumption
but have to say it is a lot better to drive.
 
Jun 10, 2010
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i used to drive a 32 ton truck with only a 150 bhp Gardener engine in it. 500 miles most days...

.........before tachos and speed limiters? not that speed was probably much of a problem but driving hours would set VOSA alight!!!!

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ambulancekidd

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Sep 23, 2014
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Since 1964 Gosh that makes me feel old.
We've had a 2.2 Mercedes for a couple of years now & apart from the EGR needed cleaning, its been perfect to drive. I was used to the 2.7 & 3.0 Mercedes as ambulances, to tell you the truth,the bigger engine simply isn't required in normal running. The Mercedes cam is chain driven.
 

Jaws

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Sep 26, 2008
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5.25t tag axle autotrail with a 2.3 Fiat lump in it.. To be fair it aint that economic at around 21-22 mpg
 

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