Hi All:

I posted this over in the Diesel Discussion (where I usually hang out) and someone suggested I try over here as well.

I've been spending a lot of time lately looking into getting a new "play" vehicle. Ideally, I'd like it to be a diesel, so I've been playing with the options of an imported or converted VW Eurovan, a domestic pick-up with a massive cap (Ram 1500/2500 or older Ford), or a Sprinter.

Clearly, the Sprinters are superior in size, durability, and performance. Where they fail is in price. That said, I've been looking at used vehicles and just found a nice, single-owner 2005 with less than 50k on the odo. (As an aside, it was fun looking at a newer Mercedes rather than the 1980-85 240/300s I usually look at .)

I've read mixed reviews about what people don't like on these vehicles; everything from bad EGR systems to constant alignment problems to rust issues. Personally, I find the fixed steering wheel on the 2005 quite uncomfortable, but I don't know if that's enough of a reason to get a newer model.

Are there folks here who've had good or bad experiences with these? Are there particular problems that I should look out for when I'm checking out used Sprinters?

Additionally, is there a compelling reason to go for a 2007 with the 3.0 aside from the bigger engine and the better emissions (via the soot trap)?

Many thanks in advance!