Current Fiat Ducato Model Review

cardoor

The voluntary ambulance organisation I am with are considering using the current Model Fiat Ducato for a Van based conversion to an Ambulance.
Something like this:


Comparing to the Transit; They are about 5 grand cheaper, Are Lower at the back (for the lifting), Wider in the back (so more space).

People have sworn they are good and that the AA and Gardaí are using them now.

Any honest reviews on this model Ducato?

hobochris

Used to drive one for work, great van.

macroman

Good tried and tested engine, don't rot as much as Transits or Sprinters, popular in Europe with Ambulance services. My only problem with them is the ugliness of them.

The deciding factor should be who would be doing the Ambulance conversion, since Ambulances are usually built off a chassis cab, could the converters do a good job maximising the space in the rear of a LWB van? OMAC have an Iveco Daily van, perhaps see who converted/fitted out their Ambulance and ask about the quality of the finish and problems encountered.

cardoor

any more opinions?

colm_mcm

I wouldn't base the Gardai using them on anything. they also use the Fiat Ulysee as well and they're woeful.

ianobrien

We've had two previous model Ducatos as Campers at home, and the only thing we had go was an Oil line feeding the turbo split (in a 00 model one). Other than that, they've been reliable. The current one is a 06 and has been reliable. As for driver comfort, ours has a/c, minibus heater, all electric and the most comfortable seats for a long journey (not Fiat seats, ones fitted by Rapido)

If you are going for a chassis cab and getting a coachbuilt body (from your post, I think not) get the ALKO chassis. It's got much nicer handling and a smoother ride (not available on a panel van)

I've heard rumours that the 2.2 engine is gutless, but that may be pub talk. The 3.0 engine copes with a 3.5 tonne camper easily, and would be the one I'd go for.