The difference in 18' pop top and standard van

[bblaze]

Whats the difference in the on road performance of a 18 foot pop top caravan compared to a 18 foot standard height van (later model type with the tapered front). Interested in wind resistance, fuel economy etc. I understand that the standard height van is going to take more work to tow, but how much more. Looking to maybe purchase a van in the distant future for tempory accomadation but at a later date will be used for long distance touring. I can see all the benifits of the pop top but for my wifes comfort I would prefer a inside shower. Dont mind if I have to fit that myself but I can see problems with trying to fit in a pop top.
Tow vehicle will be my disco 1 and not interested in updating vehicles at this point.
cheers
blaze

[DeeJay]

We used to have a 17"6" poptop. Towed behind the Disco or County no worries. Problems with sway are all down to how you pack them internally.
We sold it & toyed with the idea of a dual axle larger van & our research showed that a poptop and normal van return around the same mileage. The reason is mostly because the poptops are heavier and what you make up in wind resistance you lose on hills etc with the weight, especially behind a 4wd which breaks up the wind anyway.
Hope that helps, but google it to find more.