considering buying a Delica

[tracker]

Hello all; I am new to this forum and am not yet a Delica owner, but may be soon. I have a few questions for more experienced members to help me decide if I want to buy my neighbour's Delica. How are these for heat in -25 weather, how subject are they to side winds, what kind of fuel economy do they get (it's a turbo diesel), how troublesome are they and are they comfortable for long distance travel (I'm 6'2")? I appreciate all input, and thanks in advance.

[konadog]

You know you want one....

[nxski]

How are these for heat in -25 weather

I've never had mine that cold, but it should be fine, you may want to add a rad cover!?

how subject are they to side winds

Very, not dangerously so though, just something to get used to.

what kind of fuel economy do they get (it's a turbo diesel)

Mine has had between 8L/100km - 17L/100km but averages 12 with a roof basket

how troublesome are they

In what sense? The average cost of running a 20 year old vehicle is $2000/year and mine has always cost less in maintenance

are they comfortable for long distance travel (I'm 6'2")

Absolutely, I travelled 56,000km around North America with up to 19 hours straight of driving without feeling uncomfortable (tired, but not uncomfortable).

[tracker]

Good info. Thanks!

[naterade]

How are these for heat in -25 weather

They are fine. Not super-warm, but I've never had much of an issue in my 3 Alberta winters with my Delica.

If it gets really cold, you can guard the rad with canvas or cardboard, which helps keep things a bit warmer.

To aid cold weather starts, just plug it in when it gets below -15

are they comfortable for long distance travel

I did just over 7000kms in 5 1/2 weeks on my honeymoon this past summer, never once had any issues with comfort. I was actually pleasantly surprised.

[glenn]

L300 or 400? They are very different beasts. Both are awesome - L400 less quirky but more comfortable and capable.

[TardisDeli]

Welcome to our cult. Who is your neighbour, what online ID. We have had several Alberta folk stay at our house, they often combine a vacation with a trip to Vancouver for a proper Delica Spa and Tune-up at CVI. And to enjoy a deli-meat in their honour.

The Calgary group is quite active, and would happily meet to answer questions and show off their van. Send an email to Erebus. Edmonton has less delicii than Calgary.

Cheers Christine.

[bionic]

Hello all; I am new to this forum and am not yet a Delica owner, but may be soon. I have a few questions for more experienced members to help me decide if I want to buy my neighbour's Delica. How are these for heat in -25 weather, how subject are they to side winds, what kind of fuel economy do they get (it's a turbo diesel), how troublesome are they and are they comfortable for long distance travel (I'm 6'2")? I appreciate all input, and thanks in advance.

This is if your considering an L300 model. Your height wont be a problem. They are reasonably comfortable for what they are. The short wheelbase L300 is a little "bucky" due to the short wheelbase, but turns on a dime and can park in a "compact"spot. The low roof (P25) will fit in most townhouse garages/underground parking, the high roof wont. If the suspension /shocks are adjusted properly (ie:firm) they are "ok" for side winds/cornering. Never had a problem with cabin heat, even at -25. You will not like prolonged climbs...patient or not. They L300 diesel will get "around" 10.5L per/100K. that translates to roughly 550km per 60-65l tank average fillup.
I have owned 3 L300's...both high/low roof models. The bottom line is always the same...its an old diesel vehicle, and unless you truely know the history (you dont) then be prepared for some work. Quirky -yes. Unreliable -not really, but it's no Honda Civic either, and your expectations need to be in-line with the vehicles purposes. They are fun to own, but they are work, and yes I mean all of them. If you dont like to "tinker" than a Delica might be a "stinker".
I keep coming back to them as its very difficult, if not impossible, to match the combination of roominess, manueverability, fuel efficiency, and off road capabilities of these little vans. Anything worth having doesnt come easy, and I love them.