Are you a travel enthusiast or adventure seeker looking to dive into the world of Volkswagen campervans or Ford vans? At Platinum Wave Automotive, we’re here to help you make the right choice between short wheel base (SWB) and long wheel base (LWB) vans.
In this post, we’ll be explaining the difference between these two popular choices, delving into the pros and cons of long wheel and short wheel bases, and guiding you to find the perfect campervan tailored to your needs.
First let’s dive into what long wheel base and short wheel base actually mean:
What Is A Long Wheel Base Van?
Long wheel base or LWB means the vehicle has a longer distance between the front and rear wheels. For example, long wheel base Volkswagen Transporter campervans measure approximately 5.3 metres in length.
What Is A Short Wheel Base Van?
Short wheel base or SWB are campervans that have a shorter distance between the front and rear wheels, measuring around 4.9 metres in length.
What Is The Difference Between Short And Long Wheel Base?
The main distinction is the distance between the centre of the front wheels and the centre of the rear wheels. The difference between the short and long wheel base is roughly 0.4 metres.
A long wheel base van has more interior space yet reduced manoeuvrability whereas a short wheel base is more agile but has less interior space.
Now that you’re familiar with the fundamental differences between LWB and SWB campervans, let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Long Wheel Base (LWB) Campervans
Long Wheel Base Pros
- More interior space: LWB camper conversions offer more room inside, allowing for more space, and extra storage. The difference is just 0.4 metres, but it can feel like a lot more!
- Extended off-grid capabilities: With extra storage, you’ll be able to stay in remote locations for longer periods, giving you the freedom to truly explore the great outdoors.
- Smoother ride: A long wheel base campervan provides a more comfortable journey, as the increased distance between the front and rear wheels allows for a smoother ride when encountering bumps in the road. This can be particularly beneficial when travelling long distances.
Long Wheel Base Cons
- Reduced manoeuvrability: Due to their increased size, LWB campervans can be more challenging to manoeuvre, particularly in tight spaces or when navigating narrow roads.
- Parking challenges: Finding suitable parking spaces for a long wheel base van might be more difficult in some urban settings, where spaces may be limited in size. When entering city car parks, you may have to pay more for a ticket.
Long Wheel Base Vans are Ideal for:
- Families or larger groups who require extra storage and living space.
- Individuals/couples planning longer trips or considering living in their campervan for extended periods, such as throughout the summer months.
- Extended road trips, where the smoother ride and increased comfort provided by the LWB campervan will be greatly appreciated.
- Adventures that take you off-grid, where the additional storage space will enable you to stock up on supplies and enjoy your journey without constantly needing to restock.
Take a look inside a LWB van:
Advantages and Disadvantages of Short Wheel Base (SWB) Campervans
Short Wheel Base Pros
- Agility: SWB campervans are smaller and more nimble, making them better suited for driving through towns and cities.
- Easier manoeuvrability: With a smaller turning circle, these vans are more convenient to manoeuvre in tight areas and parking spaces. This is also advantageous when navigating narrow country lanes or tight spots. If you’re not used to driving a large vehicle, you’ll find SWB easier to manage.
- Off-road capabilities: If you’re keen on exploring off the beaten track and may encounter rough terrain, a short wheel base campervan is better equipped to help you through without getting stuck.
- Lower cost: A SWB campervan will typically be less expensive than its equivalent LWB counterpart.
Short Wheel Base Cons
- Less interior space: The shorter wheel base means less room inside the campervan, which could lead to a more compact kitchen and living space, and less storage space.
- Shorter Journeys: With less storage space, you won’t have quite as much space for luggage. This could reduce your scope for long journeys.
Short Wheel Base Vans are Ideal for:
- Couples or solo travellers who prioritise manoeuvrability and off-road capabilities.
- Those who plan to spend more time driving in urban environments or navigating narrow roads.
- Shorter trips and weekend getaways where the limited interior space won’t be as noticeable.
- Adventures that involve navigating through cities, towns, and tight country lanes, where the agility and manoeuvrability of the SWB campervan will truly shine.
Take a look at the inside a SWB van:
How to Choose Between a Short Wheel Base and Long Wheel Base Campervan
When it comes to deciding between an SWB or LWB campervan, it’s crucial to evaluate your specific needs, preferences, and the type of adventures you plan to go on.
Here are some key factors to consider when making your choice:
1. Space Requirements
If you’re travelling with a family or a larger group, or if you plan on spending extended periods in your campervan, the additional space offered by a long wheel base camper van might be more suitable. However, if you’re a solo traveller or a couple who don’t mind a more compact living space, a short wheel base campervan could be the better option.
2. Driving Environment
Consider the locations where you’ll be driving and parking most frequently. If you’ll be exploring urban areas, navigating tight roads, or tackling off-road terrain, a short wheel base campervan’s manoeuvrability and agility might be more appealing.
If you’ll be spending more time on open roads and long trips, like The North Coast Route, the smoother ride and increased comfort provided by an LWB camper van may be a better fit.
3. Off-grid Potential
If your adventures involve going off-grid for extended periods, the extra storage offered by an LWB campervan might be invaluable. However, if you’ll be taking shorter trips or staying closer to civilisation, the limited storage in an SWB camper van may not be a significant drawback.
Find out how to make the most of your space with our campervan storage hacks.
4. Budget
Keep your budget and finance options in mind when choosing between SWB and LWB campervans. Generally, a SWB campervan will be less expensive than its LWB camper counterpart, but it’s essential to weigh the cost against the benefits provided by each option.
At Platinum Wave Automotive, we’re passionate about helping you find the perfect long or short wheel base campervan to embark on your next adventure. Simply contact our team with any questions.
Should I Choose A Short-Wheelbase Or Long-Wheelbase Van?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and the types of adventures you have planned.
At Platinum Wave Automotive, we’re committed to helping you make the best decision. As the UK’s largest provider of ready-to-go campervans, we offer a wide variety of SWB and LWB camper vans for you to explore.
You’re welcome to visit our showroom and explore our extensive range of campervans.
Frequently Asked Questions
To identify whether a campervan has an LWB or SWB, simply take a look at the sliding door. If it extends up to the rear wheel arch, you’re looking at a short wheel base. If there’s a small gap between the door and the wheel arch, then it’s a long wheel base model.
Wheel base, the distance between the front and rear wheels, directly influences the manoeuvrability of a van.
A short wheel base is often easier to manoeuvre with its smaller turning circle. This makes it ideal for cities and urban parking. In contrast a long wheel base campervan can be more challenging to handle and turn. They are more stable and offer a smoother ride.
It all depends on the type of terrain you’ll be driving on and for how long. A short wheel base van is generally a better choice for off-road driving. It offers better manoeuvrability and tighter turning cycles, but space is sacrificed. However if you’ll be off the beaten track for long periods, a long wheel base van may be more suitable. These vans have more space for cargo and passengers compared to the short wheel version. LWB vans also offer a smoother ride which you might appreciate when on harsher terrains.
A short wheel base (SWB) is the best option for city driving and parking. With a smaller turning radius, they’re ideal for navigating tight busy streets. Being smaller in general compared to their long wheel base counterparts, they’re a bit easier to park too. Even in compact parking spaces.
Generally, a long wheelbase is better for a campervan conversion as they offer more space. They’re ideal for those living in their van full time or taking trips with family. However if you want a van that’s easier to drive and don’t mind sacrificing space, a short wheel base may be right for you.
Whether you’re converting a VW or Ford camper, speak to our team today and find out which van is right for your conversion.