Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901
The van that redefined the commercial segment with car-like safety and common-rail efficiency.
- Power
- 109 bhp
- Top speed
- 90 mph
About the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901
Launched in 1995 to replace the aging T1, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (W901) revolutionised the large van market with its aerodynamic design and independent front suspension. The 311 CDI trim, introduced with the 2000 facelift, featured the advanced OM611 common-rail diesel engine, offering a significant leap in refinement and fuel economy over previous indirect-injection units. It was the first commercial vehicle to offer ABS as standard across the range, cementing its reputation for safety. Today, early Sprinters are prized by collectors and van-life enthusiasts for their robust mechanicals and vast interior volume, though surviving examples are increasingly rare due to heavy commercial use and corrosion issues.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901 specs
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901 produces 109 bhp (81 kW) and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | Sprinter |
| Generation | W901 |
| Trim | 311 CDI |
| Years | 1995–2006 |
| Type | Van |
| Body style | Van |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 2.1-litre turbocharged inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,148 cc (2.1 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 109 bhp (81 kW) at 3,800 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,200 rpm |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,945 kg (4,288 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 56 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter W901 fun facts
- The Sprinter was the first Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle to be given a name rather than a simple alphanumeric designation.
- To avoid the US 'Chicken Tax' on light trucks, cargo Sprinters were shipped as knock-down kits and reassembled in South Carolina.
- The W901 Sprinter won the 'International Van of the Year' award upon its debut in 1995.
