I drove a Sprinter Freightliner with the Mercedes diesel. The engine
was plenty strong, the transmission shifted beautifully and it handled
nicely (like a Vanagon in the sense that it handled like a much
smaller vehicle.) The real test is in taking a road trip. If you're
anything like me, when I take a road trip in any vehicle, other than a
Vanagon (not often), Syncro or otherwise, I'm constantly aware (and
bothered) by its absence.

Gracias,
                    Miguel