Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638
The three-pointed star's first foray into the premium MPV market.
- Power
- 122 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.6 s
- Top speed
- 102 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$6k
About the Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638
Launched in 1996 as a more luxurious passenger version of the Vito commercial van, the W638 V-Class marked Mercedes-Benz's first front-wheel-drive passenger car. The V 220 CDI arrived with the 1999 facelift, introducing the OM611 common-rail diesel engine which offered significantly better refinement and torque than the earlier turbodiesels. While its commercial roots were evident in its boxy silhouette and upright driving position, the interior featured car-like switchgear from the W202 C-Class and versatile seating for up to seven. It remains a practical, if unrefined, entry point into Mercedes-Benz ownership for those needing maximum interior volume.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638 specs
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638 produces 122 bhp (91 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.6 seconds and has a top speed of 102 mph (164 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | V-Class |
| Generation | W638 |
| Trim | V 220 CDI |
| Years | 1996–2003 |
| Type | Van |
| Body style | Van |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 85,000 built |
| Engine | 2.1-litre turbocharged inline-4 diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,151 cc (2.2 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 122 bhp (91 kW) at 3,800 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.6 s |
| Top speed | 102 mph (164 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,011 kg (4,433 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 61 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638 worth?
A typical Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638 is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $6,000 (about £1,100 – £4,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class W638 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 11 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 V-Class W638 fun facts
- The W638 V-Class was the first front-wheel-drive passenger vehicle ever produced by Mercedes-Benz.
- The range-topping V 280 model actually used a 2.8-litre VR6 engine sourced from Volkswagen because Mercedes' own V6 engines would not fit the transverse engine bay.
- More than 36,000 units of the V 220 CDI were built, making it the most popular variant of the first-generation V-Class.
