Mercedes-Benz V-Class Van · Vito

W638

Mid-size van — the Vito that built a segment.

Production
1996–2003
Built
33,188
Body
Van / commercial
Chassis
W638
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Van (W638)

The W638 was the first-generation Vito — the van that introduced Mercedes-Benz's modern mid-size commercial and passenger platform in the mid-1990s, and quietly established the V-Class name alongside it.

Available as a panel van, combi, or passenger V-Class with petrol and diesel engines from four- and five-cylinder families, the W638 used front-wheel drive in most configurations and offered a level of refinement unusual in the commercial segment. It was the workhorse that also served as family transport when fitted with windows and seats.

Built from 1996 to 2003, the W638 carried Mercedes-Benz into the modern MPV and mid-size van era. It was replaced by the W639, which refined the formula further.

W638 interior
Cabin details of the W638, as preserved in period photography.

Every model.

8 model designations across 1996–2003 — engines, chassis codes and production figures for the W638.

ModeloAños-modeloChasisMotorTransmisiónTotal
V 200 CDI1999–2003638.294611.980incluido arriba
V 220 CDI1999–2003638.294611.980incluido arriba
V 230 Turbodiesel1997–1998638.274601.97015,025
V 2001997–1998638.214111.948330
V 2001999–2003638.294111.950incluido arriba
V 2301997–1998638.234111.97815,297
V 2301999–2003638.294111.980incluido arriba
V 2801999–2002638.294104.900incluido arriba

* La cifra de producción publicada cubre todas las series de ese modelo; la fuente no la desglosa más.

W638 side profile
Studio profile of the W638 — the proportions that defined this chassis.
W638 rear three-quarter view
Rear three-quarter view of the W638.