L400 vs L300 Camperizing Size Dimensions

[Armonster]

Hi guys!

I'm apparently very horrible at searching if this topic has been covered - which I'm sure it has been.

I'll be getting a Delica around Dec and will start Camperizing it. However, I can't seem to find the inner dimensions for the L300 vs L400 in order to decide a purchase better (I do field work so it's hard to make time to see in person).

If anyone can shoot me the inner convertible space LxWxH for these models, that would be awesome!

Thanks!
Armand

[FalcoColumbarius]

Hi Armand, welcome to Delica Canada

The L300 style Delica "Starwagon" has a mid engine arrangement, where the L400 Delica "Space Gear" has a forward engine arrangement. Typically there are three wheel bases commonly available in Canada: The L400 Standard Wheel Base (SWB)(110"); the L400 Long Wheel Base (LWB)(118"); the L300 Standard Wheel Base (88").

I would say that from here it is a matter of personal preference. I know a number of L400 enthusiasts that are very capable of off-roading, where I would say that one would have to be demented to operate one in an off-road scenario. :P

• The L300 set-up with her 88" wheel base can drive around a tree, easy to work on (no computers and easy access) and can hold a stack of 4'X8' sheets of plywood with the tailgate closed. The L300 has a 2.5 litre diesel with 86 prancing ponies under the bonnet. Cruises ideally at 105-110 KPH with the best fuel economy; challenged by long steep hills where you will need to gear down and watch your coolant temperature. Drives more like a truck, 'though others have noted that she drives more like an horse drawn carriage (I've never driven one of those so I cannot comment).
  
  The L400 SWB set-up has a 2.8 litre motor in her and more power, will take the longer hills easier than the L300 but will not hold a 4'X8' sheet of plywood because of the forward engine format and the turning radius is greater than the L300. Has computers and more sensors. Also, engine accessibility is more involved, getting to things like the timing chain requires the removal of the front end, &c.. Drives more like a car.
  
  The L400 LWB set-up is similar to the L400 SWB but will take plywood with a closed tailgate but with the 118" wheelbase the turn radius is huge. I've only ridden in the L400 LWB, lots of power (same motor as the L400 SWB), bit like a school bus.

Ultimately all three of these vehicles have their pros & cons, each with their specialities. I personally like the L300 platform ~ may not travel at light speed but carries much and gets me in and out of places that others might not navigate as easily. In my mind ~ life is a journey, not a destination.

Falco.

P.S.: Look into the shop manual sections of the L300 & L400 Technical Reference Libraries for more technical specifications. FC.