Minneapolis Street Sighting: Ford Econoline 200 Super Van

In my tenure as a blogger, there are a few types of vehicles that have eluded me for quite a while. Amidst all the decaying pickups, rust-laden cars, and rotten SUVs that look like they wasted their life as city-dwelling beaters, vans, for whatever reason, have simply gone unnoticed. Well, modern ones have, anyway. Forget that 1980s Ford Econoline and Club Wagon for a minute. When the discussion turns to the Econoline nameplate, its the 1980s example we think of most, followed closely by their 1960s counterparts. But what about the 1970s versions? Aren't they important? Yes, but evidently not much, as so few have been saved.








When the Econoline first hit the scene, it was compact van that was ready to take on the Corvair vans, and Dodge A-100. It's following generation would change van design forever. Instead of making the van into a box with the engine under the passenger compartment entirely, the new-for-1968 Ford vans had a short, stubby hood that house the front of the engine supposedly to make the design safer in an accident. As we all know, older vehicles still have the problem with no crumple zones, so now that argument is invalid. What isn't invalid is the life-longevity of these big Fords. This 1974 example is fairly rusty, obviously, but living in Minnesota, did you expect less? Well, I can say this: there are a few others around, and they're in even worse condition.
Heavily faded, and brandishing rust like a home intruder a knife, this knocked-up Super Van sure means business. Whether that business is trasporting the owner from school to school, or simply hauling band gear from one show to the next is unseen, but I can assure you that people more likely than not give this green thing the right of way. And with a face like that, I would too.
I have respect for vans, probably even more-so than I ever have, especially with them being a dying breed. I hope to find more interesting vans as my years go on. Till then, this Econoline will continue to haunt you.