sealw98

I'm looking at purchasing a van for transportation for my Disabled son back and forth to school and family vacations. Heres my options a 2000 chevy conversion with 77k or a 2005 gmc savannah w 133k which would go with and why?

71 Cutlass

I have a thought. Many times in our church, folks in your situation have appealed for some assistance and the more well to do in the church have helped them out. Families who have special needs children carry extra burdens, finances being one of them. Not sure if you know a pastor who you might approach, but you could perhaps receive some help and be able to get a van with fewer miles which may be more reliable.
With regard to the vans, I would think that the vehicle with almost 1/2 the mileage of the other would be the best choice.

Danny Boy

Go with the Beverly Hillbilly's truck...it was an Oldsmobile...

Compare the maintenance records of both. If the GMC had the front suspension, battery, rotors/drums, etc. just replaced, then it is probably just as good as the Chevy (as those things will need to be replaced soon).

I like low miles too but you need to compare:
1) What repairs need to be done to both vans
2) What options and features add to the value (what do you want to spend for what you get)
3) Which van would better assist with transporting your family (mostly your son)
4) Who are you buying from - trustworthy and clean or deceptive and uncaring

442much

I'd go with the 77K mile vehicle just because of the mileage (after an inspection of course). Not sure about the US, but here you can claim up to $10,000/yr for a disabled child come tax time, and that would sure help with the purchase.

Oldsguy

Do you need a wheelchair lift? If so, are one or both vehicles already equipped? If not consider which would be easier to modify for that. I carry my wife's wheelchair in the trunk of our sedan but she is able to move from it to the front seat. Sometimes even with her ability I wish I would have a van instead as some days are just not as good as others as I am sure you know.

sealw98

Thanks to all you guys really appreciate the good advice, my first mine said the lower mileage vehicle, but my brother-in-law was all inside my ear with ,the newer van is the way to go, even though it had higher miles would be his choice. Well it just goes to show you always follow your first mind.

citcapp

I helped a friend by a handicap van for himself for his wife to drive. Found it was much less costly to buy a van already equiped with the wheel chair side folding ramp then to have the conversion done. There are several companies that sell used vans already set up.