Ford Van Culture Rolls On With New Mods That Are a’ Knockin’

Ford Van life is alive and kicking; evolving beyond 8-tracks and shag carpeting, vans have become tougher, outdoorsy rides.

Ford vans have had an interesting ride to to the top. The Ford E-Series came out in 1961, and the Ford van lineup included different models: one for passenger vans and another for commercial usage. But then times were a’ changin’. Ford vans were selling big as a passenger van during the second- (1968–1974) and third with a of self-expression.

And the Ford E-Series van continue to bring an element of that personal touch today. Now, the van is more likely to get a conversion for camping, or outfitted for overlanding, and any number of dirt-kicking activities.

Today, Ford offers Upfits so that additional components can be added in-house. And these are sweet extras: Rain sensing wipers, a safety canopy system, ambient lighting, a flatscreen tv, third row sofa bed, side-wind stabilization, rear view camera and even wood floors.

And we found a few gorgeous, interesting, and great looking Ford vans for sale online. This 2003 Ford E-350 custom camper van is going to be going on sale at Mecum’s upcoming Scottsdale auction, March 16 to 19).

It is a great example of  how Ford took the van and made it work with the times, add more heat, and successfully incorporate roaring off-road teeth. Ford made certain that that the van mixes stellar performance right with the versatility … that goes a long way with drivers. And having a multifaceted ride allows the van to work as a daily driver, tiny home, or overlanding beast. Still, it gives the vehicle options without feeling compromised.

The 2003 Ford E-350 van is featured as part of the Mile High Collection; noted for carrying the most wanted, performance-oriented fleet.

As expected, the custom camper van has a comfy and spiffy interior with nice upgrades like A/C, AM/FM radio. Other custom features include a 7.3L diesel V8 engine that cranks out 444 HP. It is paired to an automatic transmission.

The black exterior looks sharp and is nicely complements by gray inside. It got a roof rack for camping gear, side ladders, and makes camping look a little cooler.

With Fox off-road shocks it can conquer many different paths. Performance enhancements include a Twin I-beam front suspension. a semi-float rear suspension, and rough and ready Toyo M/T Open Country tires. A rear mount full sized rear tire mount is convenient and a slick visual cue.

Today, Ford vans are more likely to be found on the trails or camping. And road trips are always a perfect fit. Ford kept the van rolling on by keeping in step with what customers want. And never losing the spirit of #VanLife; fun, freedom, and awesome Ford rides. Although today’s Ford van culture is more focused on taking on the roads many challenges; chasing a different kind of high. And lot less shag carpeting.

Mecum’s Glendale, AZ auction will air on TV. The broadcast schedule and bidding details are online.

Photos; Mecum; GR Auto Gallery 

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S.J. Bryan

Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.