When I was younger, I decided the ultimate vehicle was a 4×4 turbo-diesel camper van. The desire to be as free and self-sufficient as possible, and able to go wherever the spirit called was powerful. I fulfilled that partly with my ’68 Dodge A100 back in the 70s, as well as our ’77 Dodge Chinook in more recent years. So whenever I see vans like this, especially with a license plate from across the country, I stop and give a moment’s reflection accompanied with an inevitable tinge of jealously.
My apologies for the sun rays that spoiled the picture, but we can make out a rather burly version of Ford’s evergreen Econoline. I’m not sure it’s possible to divine its year of manufacture; my Econoline Rosetta Stone for interpreting the subtle changes to its grille has gone AWOL. But my best shot is that it’s one of the first few years of this generation, which started in 1975. I’ll call it a ’76, because I would have really wanted one then. A survivalist survivor. And adorned with a deer skull, no less.
The plates are from Vermont; a place that is sometimes associated with Oregon. I think the two states have the highest percentage of Subarus; or at least did so back in the 70s, when Subarus were almost unknown elsewhere.
I initially had “Econoline” in the title, but it really is a Club Wagon, with its windows all-round, as well as the badge on the rear identifying it as such. Love those air horns; just the right touch. And to let folks know you’re coming to a blind curve on a one-lane back-country road.
What I wouldn’t have given for this in 1976, as a recent arrival to California; just the ticket to explore its infinite natural wonders. Well, that’s an infinite-limit credit card; these big Fords do get thirsty.
Note: a rerun of an older post.
I mostly had VW vans but you’re correct :
They’re wonderful all purpose vehicles that can be modified to do most anything .
-Nate
I always appreciated the 4×4 conversions on vans. IMO, this is the only way. #1 a standard low slung 2WD van is gonna be lousy in a rural Michigan winter. #2 if I had my own little home on wheels, the whole point would be to get away from civilization and find peace. And the best way to accomplish that is with 4×4 and ground clearance.
I all kinds of want this. I’d drive it to work.
Subarus are still for the most part, the Vermont state car.
Someone probably used the old “Vermont loophole” to get this registered, if I’d seen it around here I’d have noticed it!
Given that single-digit MPG was the norm for a rig like this in the ’70s it would be a pricey cross-country drive.