Track Tested: 2007 Dodge Sprinter 2500

Nothing like running numbers on the least track-worthy vehicle this side of a John Deere combine. At just over 8 feet high, the Dodge Sprinter looks more like a civilian UPS truck than something you should consider driving on a daily basis. But drive one and you'll be pleasantly surprised at its competence.

You see, the Dodge Sprinter is essentially a rebadged Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle. It has a turbocharged diesel V6 and an interior you might recognize if you've ever been in a late-'80s E-Class. It mixes MacPherson struts up front with a solid axle in back, and the brakes use discs at each corner. None of it is exactly cutting-edge, but it's not a farm implement either.

In fact, the Sprinter was faster through the slalom than the last Mercedes-Benz G550 we tested. It also stops shorter from 60 mph than a Honda Pilot. Its diesel engine doesn't do it any favors when it comes to acceleration, but it does give the Sprinter a 5,000-pound tow rating. Oh, and by the way, it also seats 12. Numbers after the jump.

Vehicle: 2007 Dodge Sprinter Van 2500
Odometer: 7,438
Date: 08/16/08
Driver: Josh Jacquot
Price: $43,300

Specifications:
Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
Transmission Type:   5-speed automatic
Engine Type: V6
Displacement (cc / cu-in): 2,987cc (182 cu-in)
Redline (rpm): N/A
Horsepower (hp @ rpm): 154 @ 3,400
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm): 280 @ 1,200
Brake Type (front): Ventilated disc
Brake Type (rear): Disc
Steering System: Power steering
Suspension Type (front): MacPherson strut
Suspension Type (rear):  Solid live axle
Tire Size (front): 245/75R16
Tire Size (rear): 245/75R16
Tire Brand: Continental
Tire Model: Vanco Four Season
Tire Type: All-season
Wheel Size: 16-by-6.5 inches front and rear
Wheel Material (front/rear): Steel
As tested Curb Weight (lb): 5,883

Test Results:
0 - 30 (sec): 5.0
0 - 45 (sec): 8.9
0 - 60 (sec): 14.8
0 - 75 (sec): N/A
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 19.4 @ 68.8
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec): N/A
30 - 0 (ft): 35
60 - 0 (ft): 141
Braking Rating: Good  
Slalom (mph): 52.0
Skid Pad Lateral acceleration (g):   0 .61
Handling Rating: Average
Db @ Idle: 49.0
Db @ Full Throttle: 71.1
Db @ 70 mph Cruise: 74.3

Acceleration Comments:   Excellent torque between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm. Power delivery is appropriate for this vehicle and feels quite good. Power braking does help acceleration. Transmission toggles nicely between gears in manual mode.

Braking Comments: Surprisingly effective brake pedal. Solid, consistent feel over several stops.

Handling Comments:    Skid pad: Stability control is quite conservative and won't relinquish control once activated. Slalom: Steering is accurate and surprisingly quick - better than some Mercedes-Benz cars. Body roll is well-controlled considering the height of the vehicle.