Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 V 220 CDI (122 Hp)
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz Vito:
The Mercedes-Benz Vito is a mid-sized light commercial vehicle produced by Mercedes-Benz, available as a panel van, chassis cab, or multi-purpose vehicle , carrying cargo or up to eight passengers. In the Mercedes-Benz van lineup, it is positioned between the larger Sprinter and the smaller Citan.
The Vito refers to the cargo van variant for commercial use; when passenger accommodations are substituted for part or all of the load area, it is known as the Vito Traveliner, V-Class or Viano. The Traveliner/V-Class/Viano is a large MPV....(Read more on Wikipedia)
W638 Overview:
Mercedes-Benz Vito (W638). With 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2010 kg, it’s on the heavier side. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 17.5 s). The top speed reaches 164 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.
The Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features were typical for a commercial vehicle of its era, primarily including ABS.
V 220 CDI (122 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A well-balanced CDI engine, offering good torque and adequate power for most situations, though acceleration remains modest.
Fuel Economy
Likely offers significantly better fuel economy than the petrol variants, making it a cost-effective choice for regular use.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Spacious and versatile interior, ideal for families or commercial use.
- • Comfortable ride quality for a van, especially on longer journeys.
- • Good range of engines, including efficient CDI diesels.
- • Mercedes-Benz badge offers a perception of quality and durability.
- • Front-wheel drive layout provides good interior space and handling.
Cons:
- • Prone to rust, particularly around wheel arches and sills.
- • Older petrol engines are very thirsty, leading to high running costs.
- • Some electrical issues and build quality concerns reported.
- • Lack of modern safety features compared to newer vehicles.
- • Interior plastics can feel utilitarian and show wear over time.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W638: 1996 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | Vito |
| Generation: | W638 |
| Modification (Engine): | V 220 CDI (122 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1999 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Minivan |
| Seats: | 7 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 122 Hp @ 3800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 56.8 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 300 Nm @ 1800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | OM 611 DE22LA More details about the engine OM 611 DE22LA |
| Engine displacement: | 2148 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity: | 7.5 l |
| Coolant: | 11.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Compression ratio: | 19:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 17.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 17.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 164 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 16.5 kg/Hp, 60.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.3 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 16.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2010 |
| Max. weight: | 2700 |
| Max load: | 690 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 78 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 9.9 m |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R15 |










If you could change one thing about the Mercedes-Benz Vito, what would it be?