The VAL will be a dream to drive, believe me (assuming that it's mechanically sound). The weakness of the VAL is the brakes
if you are running fully laden in mountainous country - otherwise they'll be OK. Steering and manoeuvrability are superb - despite the size.
I bet the Ashok Leyland will be harder and more tiring to drive.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedford_VAL
http://wakefield-files.freehostia.com/bedfordval.htm