Is a Delica right for me?

[Jlager]

I'm looking for a new vehicle and I'm trying to decide if a Delica is right for me. I currently drive a 1999 4runner and would keep this if I could comfortably sleep in it and if it wasn't a pig on gas.

Here's what I need in a new vehicle:

- I commute about 65KM daily one way, all highway. The 4Runner is absolutely horrible on gas (about 17mpg highway.) It seems like a Delica while not great, should still be significantly better in terms of fuel economy.

- I need to tow a snowmobile, potentially two, and sometimes up logging roads (although I could live with just being able to tow them on paved roads if that's all the Delica can do.) Total weight for two snowmobiles + trailer would be an estimated 1500 lbs. From what I've read, this should be ok on paved roads. I'm just a bit concerned about going up logging roads with that load behind.

- We do a lot of ski road trips in the winter and need something to sleep in. We would need some kind of option for heating the interior of it at night. Any solutions for heat for winter camping with a Delica?

- Being used to the 4runner, it's pretty much bulletproof and I haven't had any issues with it in the last 100,000 KMs so it would be nice to not have to go to something that I have to drop a ton of money on constantly. I understand maintenance is required for any vehicle but I'm hoping to get something that is at least average or above average in reliability. Is that the Delica?

Thanks!
Jacob

[shealy]

Sounds like if you were to get a delica, an L400 might be a bit better for you. Especially for towing. The L400s have a bit bigger engine, and are apparently better for highway driving - although you may have to install a hitch on the back.

In terms of maitenance, there's always a potential for them to be hit or miss. As with any vehicle, do your research and get it checked out by a mechanic before purchasing. These vans are 15+ years old, so there's most likely going to be at lease SOME things that need doing. That being said, if you take your time, get a quality rig, and take good care of it, it'll take care of you.

Good luck!

[stonefly]

And regarding camping, wife & I just got back from our annual 3 month ff trip to New Zealand. We converted that one to a camper and we slept 75 of 90 nights in the the L400. I'm 6'2" -210 and she's 5'9 - 135, and we had lots of room - essentially a queen bed in there. Heat wise, bundle up! (how's that for helpful?) ;)

[jessef]

Is that the Delica?

Sounds like an L400 LWB. Space/room a plenty with towing capability.