(Specs, interior spacing, performance, and offroading)
Picturesque example of a Short Wheel Base (SWB) L400 Space Gear. Boulder mountain range pictured behind.
Introduction
Since Nomadic Van’s inception, we have long been interested in the technical specs of the different Delica models we sell, and their effects on performance in particular. The 4X4 L400 Space Gear is the newer of the two Delica models we specialize in, and unlike the one-size-fits-all 4X4 L300 Star Wagon model, it offers a long wheelbase option for more space. In short, this option increases the length by a foot and a half, which comes with intricate advantages and drawbacks that need some explaining. We want to extrapolate upon these differences to help people find their perfect fit in their vehicle search.
Like its predecessor, the L300 Star Wagon, the L400 Space Gear is an overlanding and offroading pig that, if properly tuned (as done in our Nomadic Maintenance routine), offers the perfect combo of reliability, luxury, and off-road capability. One interesting question that has long been asked by the Delica community, and largely unanswered is: “What are the differences between the long wheelbase and short wheelbase L400’s,” and, at that, “how does it affect its usage?” It’s an important question and one that boils down to an equation of performance and additional space. As one of these variables increases, the other falls.
Today we will set out to answer this big question, which is centered around the varying differences in the following specs: variation in chassis and rear cabin length, seat spacing, fuel economy, and power. Today we’ll go over these specs for the SWB and LWB models, and what they all mean for usability, offroading, and adventuring. Hopefully, this will guide you in considering the tradeoffs of the L400 chassis length options, and perhaps why you should want one of these versatile machines in the first place.
Context
The L400’s we’re measuring are model years 1994-1998 with the Exceed trim packages, across both Gas and Diesel options. These are the L400 years available for import into the US, and are becoming a force to be reckoned with in the overland community because of their fuel economy, horsepower (HP), coil suspension, and the long wheelbase version offered.) (To see our L400’s in stock and more, check out our vehicle listings!)
Even though every well-kept Delica is up to the task, there are principle differences between the long wheelbase (LWB) and short wheelbase (SWB) that affect its performance and comfortability with many tradeoffs.
Vehicle Length Difference & Where it Manifests
Firstly, we’ll dive into the biggie: the difference in length between LWB and SWB models and which part of the vehicle manifests in. As measured by our techs here at Nomadic, the overall length differential between the two L400 options is 17 " (almost 1.5 feet), which may not seem like much, but with overall lengths of 182 " (approx 15.2 feet) and 199 " (approx 16.7 feet) respectively, it’s a 10% margin that really shows in person. (see attached photo). As for where this distance is distributed, it’s not in the drivers corridor, but rather a roughly 8.5” difference in wheelbase lengths (distance between hubs) and a roughly 8.5” difference from the rear axle to bumper. So the LWB option has its extra 17" from the back of the driver's seat onwards, (total measurements: 7’ 4” and 8' 9” respectively) which is key for extra leg room, storage space, and, for your van modifiers out there: Buildout space. This extra foot and a half is a godsend for anyone wanting to live in their van or load up more gear for longer trips. For you weekend warriors, this extra space isn’t necessarily needed and you may want the extra power and maneuverability of the SWB, but as we’ll go into later, it really comes down to personal preference.
Width & Height
The height and width measurements are the same for both models, with interior max width in the rear cabin being 4’11” and interior max height coming in at 4' 3” according to Nomadic tech measurements. This means you can comfortably sleep two adults in the back in both models and two on top if you go with a roof top tent setup. Also, if you’re brave enough, the fully reclining front seats can sleep two (I courageously tested this out last night for the sake of this post, and got a full night’s sleep!) As for first hand experience with the height, I’m 6’ tall and was able to stand in a crouched position and maneuver in the back to get to the seats and move things around. This brings us naturally into our next topic, and that’s seating space differences.
Seating
The seats are the same in all L400’s, cushy and comfortable, and will fold out into a bed (cool right?!). The overall extra difference in distance in rear leg room across both rows is 10", and the trunk room difference is 7". So even though the seats can be moved freely in both models, you'll get more of a leg stretch with the LWB.
For all those wondering, you can fit a “full” sized mattress in both options on top of the seats when the second row seats are folded down and the third row seat is in its normal position. In the LWB, you’ll have a small gap between the mattress and the third row seat. You’ll still maintain room for gear in the back hatch space if you do this. Also, remember there’s always storage on the roof rack in both models if you’re strap-savvy.
Above: SWB seats laid down, LWB seats laid down, SWB interior, LWB interior, ext. side by side.
Performance & Offroading
The L400 LWB weighs about 400 lbs more than the SWB. Most of that weight lives down low in the chassis and body material. When you’re driving, as you can ask Nomadic mechanics, the SWB is more peppy and can get you over rocks and bumps that would otherwise rock the chassis on a LWB if you’re on a gnarly trail. You’ll feel the weight of the LWB under full acceleration on the pavement and on steep inclines on or off-road. The difference is marginal but noticeable. This 400lb weight difference between the LWB 2.8L Turbo Diesel and the SWB results in a 7% difference in the power to weight ratio (SWB of course benefitting from this). This 7% difference will be present even after our performance tune is applied; however, adding power helps overall top speed and crawling performance. Details of what our performance tune consists of can be found on our 4M40 Performance page on our website. Low range 4WD is a key feature for offroad use to allow more power to the ground at a lower pace. Each version of the van will be able to power up inclines in excess of 28 degrees, respectively.
Silver finished example of a SWB L400 Space Gear in the Idaho backcountry
The real difference in performance is noticed when approaching sharp roll-overs or large rocks, or rounding sharp turns with a bloated turn radius (LWB). Speaking of high-centering on an obstacle, it’s easier to get the center of the undercarriage hung up with the LWB. Given the difference in length hub to hub, ground clearance, the maneuverability of the SWB is going to be more nimble, quick to turn and make corrections. Once again, this comes at the cost of not having as much space often necessary for comfortable longer term travel. It’s a tradeoff, but it really comes down to individual preference, and the Delica will get you to cool places unaccessible to other camper vans.
Summary
Overall, Depending on your lifestyle, and intended usage of the vehicle, we'd be happy to direct you towards a model we think would best fit you, but believe you’ll know what’s best for you after reading this guide! Each Delica has its place, and we thank you for geeking out with us! We think you’ll be happy with your decision, because at Nomadic Van, each Delica, short or long, has been properly gone through, tuned, and prepped for your unique adventure!
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Early 90’s L300 Star Wagon, also sold on our Van Sales Page
P. S. For a different look, similar fuel economy, and a unique driving experience, check out the classic L300 Delica models also available on our Listings Page. Their interior is roughly the same in size to the short wheelbase L400s (175” vs 182”), except with a narrower distance between hubs that give them greater ground clearance (86.5” vs 111”.)