Hello all, another newbie here keen on converting a van or minibus and getting bemused by choices. Have read some good stuff about iveco though in terms of durability, power of engine for pulling required weight etc and they seem to go from 'big enough' to gigantic! All the minibus models however seem to have only one seat in front whcih is no fun for long drives so probably go for van and put windows in (after reading the section here on such a move!) The other optionis the eminently affordable LDV convoy but friends have told me they are slow, noisy and rattling - which , again on the long drives, might be no fun.
So, anyway, if anyone has any opinions they would like to share, these would be gratefully recieved, also regarding other alternative van types _ we are 2 adults and 2 kids looking to spend as much of our time off the hamster wheel, school and work, on the road and in the hills with about £2 to £3 K to spend on motor and some time and diy/building skills for conversion
all the best
Malcolm - east lothian
Hi Malcolm,
I've only worked on smaller van conversions so don't know much about the larger options. You can get Ford and VW vans in long wheel base and high roof versions though which might give you the space you need. Mechanically, VW Transporters seem pretty good but really aren't big enough for 4 and they tend to be expensive, even for older ones. I have no idea what the new bigger VW van option - the 'Crafter' is like?
In terms of power though I would definitely go for the top end of what you can afford. While pootling along at 35mph in a vintage VW camper might seem cool, based on friend's experiences it just gets pretty annoying after a while!
In terms of seating the Iveco minibuses I've seen have 3 front seats, a single driver and double for passengers? Generally seat arrangements can be changed i.e. the passenger double to a single so it might be worth looking into that if you think the Iveco meets your other requirements......
Have fun :o)
goodone campergirl, thanks for that. I noticed the VWs seemed to be very expensive for age mileage etc. I do think I will go for the iveco as am hoping to spend much time in it and the space would be good, especially in the cold wet summers of scotland where I am
take care
Malcolm