Which is the best overland vehicle when traveling long distances over rough terrain? Is it an SUV (Toyota Land Cruiser 100-series) or a large four-wheel-drive van (Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 by StoryTeller Overland)? Roman and I look at all the features and capabilities to find out.
It’s no secret that the Toyota Land Cruiser is one of the premier platforms for building your next overland adventure vehicle. The one you see here is a 2006 Land Cruiser with a 4.7L V8 that has been built up with ARB parts and components.
On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 is the favorite full-size van platform for RV and Overland vehicle builders. This particular Sprinter 4×4 is truly special because it is the most-optioned “Beast Mode” model with a large 12 kWh lithium-ion onboard battery that enables true off-the-grid motorhome capability.
This StoryTeller Overland van starts out as a Sprinter 4×4 with a low-range transfer case for increased off-road capability. It has a unique Agile Offroad suspension system that uses specially tuned springs and FOX shocks to provide a great combination of on-road and off-road ride characteristics.
The van is equipped with a kitchen that includes a sink, fridge, stove, and indoor/outdoor table surfaces. The van has a microwave, cabinets, two showers, and two beds. The van can safely transport four people and sleep 3-4 people with two foldable beds. Technically, it sleeps 3 people, but two adults and two children is another possibility.
The Land Cruiser SUV can also be equipped with lots of comfort features. This one has air-operated locking differentials, a suspension lift with aftermarket springs and shocks, steel bumpers, additional light, a roof-mounted tent, awning, rear-mounted electric fridge/freezer, and more.
Here is a quick preview of the next video with the Storyteller Overland Sprinter 4×4.
Of course, the StoryTeller Overland van also has steel bumpers, an onboard air system for airing up tires or accessories, additional lights, aggressive off-road tires, a roof-mounted 13.5 BTU air conditioner, heater, and solar panels. This “Beast Mode” van model also has a unique Auto-Start Arm system and Boost Mode. The Auto-Start Arm system can automatically start the van’s 3.0-liter diesel engine if the onboard battery goes below 25% of charge. This will help to recharge the battery with the help of a high idle. The Boost Mode is a separate high-idle feature, to help recharge the batteries faster.
Check out the video for all the details.
