For those dreaming of hitting the open road without the bulk of a massive RV, the idea of a 17 Foot Mercedes Camper Van For Sale is incredibly appealing. Imagine a vehicle that’s as easy to drive and park as your everyday car, yet packed with all the comforts you need for luxurious travel. While directly searching for a “17 foot Mercedes camper van for sale” might lead you down some interesting paths, let’s explore why this size and concept are capturing the hearts of adventurers and what options truly exist in this sought-after category.
Alt text: Compact camper van size comparison highlighting the appeal of a small motorhome for easy maneuverability.
The allure of a smaller motorhome is undeniable. Many RV enthusiasts are moving away from the gigantic Class A coaches that dominate highways. These behemoths, while luxurious, can be cumbersome to drive, expensive to maintain, and simply too large for many travelers’ needs. The modern RVer often seeks something different: a coach that provides luxury and convenience but in a package that feels less like driving a bus and more like driving a car. They want to explore hidden gems, navigate city streets, and park with ease – something a massive RV simply can’t offer.
This desire for a more manageable RV experience is where the concept of a 17 foot camper van truly shines. It’s about finding that sweet spot between a fully-equipped motorhome and the agility of a smaller vehicle. Enter the world of innovative European designs, now making their way to the American market, that perfectly embody this ideal. While your search might start with “Mercedes,” and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans are indeed popular platforms for camper conversions, it’s worth looking beyond just the brand to discover truly exceptional vehicles in this size class.
The Rise of the Compact Motorhome: More Than Just a Van
The demand for small camper vans for sale, particularly those around the 17-foot mark, is on the rise. These aren’t your grandfather’s oversized RVs. Instead, they represent a new breed of motorhome that prioritizes ease of use, fuel efficiency, and access to a wider range of destinations. Manufacturers are listening to this demand, and some, like the Italian company Wingamm, are bringing their unique expertise to the US market.
Wingamm, while not building directly on a Mercedes chassis for their 17-foot model, offers a compelling alternative that captures the essence of what many “17 foot Mercedes camper van for sale” seekers are truly after: a compact, luxurious, and easy-to-drive motorhome. Their Oasi 540.1 model, built on a Ram ProMaster chassis (the North American version of the Fiat Ducato), measures in at just 17 feet 6 inches, making it shorter than many pickup trucks and comparable in length to smaller camper vans like the Winnebago Solis Pocket.
Wingamm has a long history in Europe, crafting RVs since 1977. They’ve built their reputation on innovative designs and high-quality construction, focusing on maximizing space and comfort within a compact footprint. Their signature fiberglass monocoque shell construction ensures durability and eliminates common RV issues like roof leaks.
The Wingamm Oasi 540.1: A Closer Look at Compact Luxury
The Wingamm Oasi 540.1 is designed to bridge the gap between larger Class C motorhomes and smaller Class B camper vans, offering the best of both worlds. Its compact size makes it incredibly maneuverable, while its thoughtful interior design provides a surprising amount of living space. One of its key features is the drop-down bed, which disappears into the ceiling during the day, creating a spacious living area. This innovative use of space is a hallmark of Wingamm’s design philosophy.
Inside, the Oasi 540.1 doesn’t feel cramped. Despite its small exterior, you can move around comfortably, a feat not easily achieved in many camper vans. The build quality is also a standout feature, with high-quality materials and a level of fit and finish that feels deserving of a luxury price tag. It includes a compact galley, a wet bath, and ample storage, ensuring all your essential needs are met within this cleverly designed space.
While the European version utilizes a Fiat Ducato diesel engine, the US model comes with a robust 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 gasoline engine on the Ram ProMaster chassis. This provides ample power for highway driving and ensures readily available service across North America, as Ram ProMaster service centers are widespread.
Considerations for Your Compact Camper Van Search
When searching for a 17 foot Mercedes camper van for sale or similar compact motorhomes, here are some key aspects to consider:
- Size and Maneuverability: The 17-foot length is ideal for those prioritizing ease of driving and parking. Consider where you plan to travel and whether a smaller footprint is crucial.
- Features and Amenities: List your must-have features. Do you need a full bathroom, a kitchen, dedicated sleeping areas, or ample storage? Compact motorhomes are masters of space optimization, but layouts and features can vary.
- Build Quality and Durability: Look for brands known for quality construction and durable materials. Fiberglass bodies, like Wingamm’s monocoque design, can offer advantages in terms of longevity and leak prevention.
- Chassis and Engine: Consider the chassis and engine platform. While Mercedes Sprinter vans are popular, other options like the Ram ProMaster offer different driving experiences and service networks.
- Price: Compact luxury camper vans can still come with a premium price tag. Factor in your budget and compare features and quality across different models.
Finding Your Perfect Compact RV
While a direct “17 foot Mercedes camper van for sale” search might be limiting, expanding your search to include compact motorhomes around the 17-foot size, regardless of the chassis brand, will open up a world of exciting possibilities. Brands like Wingamm are leading the charge in bringing European-inspired compact luxury to the US market, offering vehicles that are perfectly suited for adventurers seeking comfort, convenience, and ease of travel in a smaller package.
Ultimately, the ideal 17 foot camper van is one that fits your specific needs and travel style. Explore the options, consider the features that matter most to you, and don’t be afraid to look beyond just the brand name to discover innovative and exciting compact motorhomes like the Wingamm Oasi 540.1 that are redefining the RV experience.
