The custom van culture was in its prime in the 1970s and one can still spot some of them on the streets even today. Of course, not all of them resemble a stunted frog, right?
This Dodge van brought to you courtesy of Barn Finds, is a junkyard treasure with a rather uncommon character. Let’s dig more into its uniqueness and why it could be an important buy, although tall people might want to skip it.
Featured On Motor Mythbusters
Likely unknown to the current owner, a helpful commenter via barnfinds.com noticed this van is actually the result of an experiment by the TV-Series, Motor Mythbusters. The goal of the experiment was to chop the roof and improve the aerodynamics of the van. After the experiment was complete, the van likely went to auction and is how current ownership occurred.
The Squashed Van Is A Dodge Sportsman
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With that out of the way, the car started as a 1976 Dodge Sportsman Van. Given the fact that the removal of many inches from the sides of the van makes it look a tad stepped-on, sportsmen would be hard-pressed to fit into these.
Making this van took lots of tools, time, and imagination but driving it needed even more gumption.
While it makes sense to chop overly tall vehicles, the Dodge Sportsman van was always a little horizontally challenged. With this metalworking in place, it’s near unrecognizable.
The Facebook Marketplace Listing Is Honest And Brutal
The owner seems rather upfront on Facebook Marketplace calling it a “working project that runs and drives.” The seller also explains how parts of the roof are stitch-welded in places and fully welded in the others.
There is rust in some areas and the modification is a definite work in progress. With the gun slit windshield, peeking into the car is a lot more difficult. With that in mind, this might give the future owner a bit of privacy as well.
The car is currently located in Hemet, California, and the asking price is $2,500. Before you jump at the low price, remember the insides of the car seem trashed as well with doors missing panels and more. The good thing is that Dodge Sportsmen vans were outdoorsy vehicles ready for some tough love. Given the low price, the owner either doesn't know the car was on a TV-Series or more likely doesn't care.
Source: Barn Finds