I really should sell my van while the getting is good. $50k for a 2015 with 81k and is not even completely built out. That is just crazy.
I do not believe diesel is going to get you much at this point. It can be harder to find and I think the only company still adding that option new is Mercedes.
We do not have 4x,4 just traction pads and good tires. We have been never really been stuck bad enough to need a pull out. I actually never had to even use the traction pads. Sure 4x4 is good, but if you are going to go that route, you’d be better off with a truck and camper in the back. We honestly haven’t had the need for 4x4 and most camping spots we find on apps, that people deem you need a 4x4 to get too, can easily be reached by a capable driver with front or rear wheel drive vehicles.
If I was going to spend that kinda cash on an adventure rig and not get something completely new it would be something like this:
Pretty much has all you are looking for including 4x4 and it will hold it’s value. Repairs are also very cheap. Just food for thought, or you could also get something half the price in near mint condition (TheSamba.com :: VW Classifieds - 1984 VW Vanagon Westfalia. 90K original miles) sans 4x4.
For 50k you could buy a brand new 2021 Promaster and convert it yourself with top of the line gear and have brand a brand new vehicle with low mileage and a good warranty.
You gotta ask yourself. Is the 6 years, 80k miles, and half built out conversation worth the extra $13k you’re going to spend over the Promaster 2500 high top’s, $37k starting price. In my opinion probably not. Throwing a mattress down in a brand new one will likely make you just as happy and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that if something breaks, someone else is going to fix it for you and you aren’t going to pay a dime for it for a long time.
Two more things, if the van is only a 1500 definitely don’t get it as it will have a low GVWR meaning less weight capacity for gear.
Most importantly of all, before you do buy it, call the insurance companies and see if they’ll insure it for you or not. Likely spending that much money, you’ll want to have full coverage. Insurance on the self built rigs can be a real pain to get.
Good luck!