Classic vans seem to be particularly appreciated by the communities of skaters, surfers, and generally those who enjoy the slow-drive movement. Although today many vans are dedicated to extreme overlanding experiences or converted into high-end campers, there are many enthusiasts who have preserved their classic cars in their stock conditions.
Those vintage vans, no matter if they are made in Germany or America, are the perfect dose of nostalgia. Perhaps because they bring back childhood memories? Or maybe it's because of their classy, fancy and cozy look? Check out the coolest and most nostalgic vans that we wish we could drive right now.
8 1965 Chevrolet Corvair Greenbriar Van
This '65 Corvair Greenbriar is one of the coolest American mid-sized vans ever made. Introduced in 1960, the Corvair Greenbriar Van offered Chevrolet customers the opportunity of buying a decent alternative to the more popular Volkswagen Bus.
This van is not only looking good and perfect for a drive along the beach, but it also presents some interesting features. While the VW Bus was famous for its lack of power, this Chevy van came with a 6-cylinder boxer engine with 85HP, and was eventually upgraded to 110HP. Sure, van drivers don't feel the need for speed, but still, they'd rather have vans with a proper powertrain that grants agility.
7 1965 Ford Econoline Van
This Ford Econoline is incredibly clean, and although it was meant to be a workhorse, this panel van is ready for those camper-conversions that we love so much and that are so trendy on Instagram.
Vanlife-approved, the Ford van has one of the most peculiar engine positions, being placed between the two front seats. It's probably not the most silent drive experience you could get, but all the space inside the van, and the thousands of possibilities you have to convert it, will shortly make you forget about that.
6 1976 GMC Freedom 76 Van
This '76 GMC Freedom van is what could make your runaway American dream come true. This is a rare example as only 500 units were made to celebrate the tricentennial anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which should be pretty clear from the numerous American flags adorning the bodywork.
Packed with a large 350 cu in V8 engine, the interior of the van is all about those '70s luxury lounge areas that you could find at airports. For sure, this van has nothing to do with the famous A-Team van. The leather-upholstered bucket seats can turn around, in addition, there are a fridge and a sink to bring with you all the basic comforts for a weekend's camping journey.
5 1979 Volkswagen Westfalia Bay
This is undoubtedly one of the most iconic vans ever, and every time you spot one of these along the freeway you just can't stop staring at it. This is a VW Bay van in its original Westfalia version, which turned a regular bus into one of the most sought-after mini camper vans.
The Westfalia package includes the iconic pop-top roof, which allows the use of an extra bed on the roof of the van. Also, there is a convertible rock'n'roll couch that easily turns into an additional bed. Fully equipped with sink, cooking stove, table and extra battery, this van has been a reference point for all the camper vans that came into existence later.
4 1969 Ford Club Wagon Van
Over the years, the tiny VW bus and American vans got bigger and wider, and this is a stunning example of a Ford Club Wagon. The van is powered by a 302 cu in V8 engine, which for sure granted better mobility and drive experience than the underpowered predecessors.
To attract more buyers to get a Ford van, the Detroit-based company introduced higher-end versions of the standard Econoline. Models like the Club Wagon Chateau had air conditioning, houndstooth fabric on all seats, an AM/FM sound system, and the option of 12-passenger seating.
3 1967 Dodge A100 Custom Sportsman Van
This 1967 Dodge van is one of our favorite American replies to the 2nd generation VW Bus. The round front lights are well encapsulated in the bodywork, which follows a linear, yet gentle shape. Chrome bumpers, frames and mirrors make this van even more precious.
The large 318 cu in V8 engine seats between the driver and front passenger, and it's mated by a 3-speed transmission. Also, the van is finished with a fancy two-tone beige and white paint, paired with original rims and white-striped tires. This makes it perfect for those Instagram users who want pictures of a perfect vanlife experience.
2 1964 Chevrolet Corvair Van
This Chevy Corvair is another attempt to turn a gorgeous panel van from the '60s into a mini camper van. Windows have been added and the van underwent a full restoration. Now, the Chevy van has a new urethane base coat and a new fancy surf-approved two tone paint.
The beating heart of this Corvair is a 2.4-liter 6-cylinder engine, and it's mated to a rare 4-speed transmission. A vintage wooden rack on the roof of the van has been added, and we just can't wait to see the van's finished conversion.
1 1967 Volkswagen 21-Window Samba Bus
This is probably one of the most recognizable means of transport of all time, and it's unavoidable to associate this tiny, gorgeous van to the hippie movement. This Volkswagen bus is a rare 21-window Samba, finished in Titan Red and Pastel White with Platinum Silver interior, Safari windshield and 6 pop-out windows.
The van features a 1.8-liter engine with 72 HP that is paired to a 4-speed manual transmission. This old "flower children" van has been brought back to its stock condition, and the awesome restoration work obtained the ambitious Stiftung AutoMuseum Volkswagen Certificate.