Quote:
Originally Posted by User1
Hello all,
I'm looking to put together a van that can be used for 1-2 people and used for camping. I'd really would like to put something together myself. So it would be gutted more than likely.
My main requirement is that it can get 30 mpg going ~65 mph. I don't need anything new and shiny. Just something dependable that has been taken care of.
Have a budget of 5-6k for the van itself.
Some advice on what to shoot for would be greatly appreciated. If any threads or groups I could "feed" off of would be great too.
Thanks,
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Without having read the numerous responses, I can vouch for the VW T4 (Eurovan) Transporter. Though not available in the USA, from 1992-1997 almost all Transporters sold in Canada were equipped with a 2.4L diesel and 5 speed transmission. I think all the Transporter panel vans came with the 5 spd diesel. In addition to impressive fuel economy this happens to be the most reliable engine/trans combo available for these vans, not counting the TDI which appeared in 1998 but never made it to North America.
The Transporter is 16 inches longer than a standard Eurovan Westfalia camper. The interior is way roomier than that of any minivan and much taller too. The Winnebago version which came out in 1995 uses the long wheel base Transporter body.
My Transporter had an RV conversion done when near new by a previous owner. It has a pop top roof and rear seats that fold down to form a bed. It consistently returns 6.5-7L/100km, approx. 30-36mpg, though it is officially rated at 8.7L/100km for city and hwy but upgrading to bigger wheels and tires takes off a lot of rolling resistance, plus I've noticed that diesel powered vehicles usually get better fuel economy than they are rated for.
If you're looking for even a modicum of power, though, I would suggest you look elsewhere. That 2.4D generates a whopping 77 bhp.