18 Iconic Vans From the 1970s Golden Age of Parking
The 1970s was an era of bold fashion, iconic music, and an obsession with vans that knew no bounds. Whether parked outside a rock concert, cruising along Route 66, or doubling as a home on wheels, these vans weren’t just vehicles—they were rolling statements.
This decade saw an explosion of creativity in van culture, with drivers customizing their rides with shag carpeting, airbrushed murals, and enough personality to fill a parking lot. It wasn’t just about transportation. It was about freedom, adventure, and making sure your ride turned heads.
So, let’s take a nostalgic joyride through 18 of the most unforgettable vans of the 70s.
1. Volkswagen Type 2
Few vehicles define an era as completely as the Volkswagen Type 2, better known as the VW Bus. It was the official chariot of hippies, surfers, and dreamers who believed that the journey was just as important as the destination.
Inside, the spacious and simple design made it a camper’s dream, transforming road trips into full-fledged adventures. With its signature two-tone color scheme and unmistakable rounded edges, the VW Bus became a symbol of peace, love, and the open road.
Even today, it remains a timeless icon of 70s counterculture, proving that some rides never go out of style.
2. Ford Econoline
The Ford Econoline didn’t just blend in—it stood out. Whether it was covered in wild murals, decked out with plush interiors, or packed with music equipment, this van adapted to every lifestyle.
Its boxy build and spacious interior made it ideal for families, businesses, and the creatively inclined. Many owners tricked out their Econolines with velvet seats, mini-bars, and wall-to-wall shag carpeting, turning them into mobile lounges.
With a sturdy engine and endless customization options, the Econoline became a favorite for those who wanted both practicality and personality in one stylish package.
3. Dodge Tradesman
For those with an artistic streak and a love for the open road, the Dodge Tradesman was the perfect ride. This van had a reputation for strength, reliability, and endless potential for customization.
From fantasy-themed murals to psychedelic paint jobs, Tradesman owners turned their vehicles into rolling masterpieces. It wasn’t just about appearances, though—this van also delivered serious horsepower, making it ideal for long road trips or hauling surfboards to the beach.
For many, the Tradesman was more than a van—it was an extension of their personality.
4. GMC Vandura
With a sleek design and a reputation for reliability, the GMC Vandura was the cool, confident van of the 70s. It was roomy enough to transport families, bands, and even small businesses while still offering a smooth, comfortable ride.
The Vandura’s versatile interior meant it could be transformed into a luxury cruiser, complete with plush seating and premium sound systems. Whether it was hauling cargo or serving as a mobile party spot, this van did it all with effortless style.
5. Toyota Hiace
Not every van needed to be massive to make an impact. The Toyota Hiace proved that great things could come in compact packages.
It was fuel-efficient, reliable, and perfect for city driving. Despite its smaller size, the interior was cleverly designed to maximize space, making it a favorite for both businesses and adventurous road trippers.
With a reputation for durability and affordability, the Hiace became a go-to choice for those who needed practicality without sacrificing charm.
6. Bedford CF
On the other side of the Atlantic, the Bedford CF was holding it down as one of Britain’s most dependable vans.
Built for practicality and performance, it was the van of choice for tradespeople, delivery drivers, and businesses. But that didn’t stop van enthusiasts from customizing it into a mobile retreat or weekend camper.
Its tough build and reliability made sure it stuck around for decades, proving that sometimes, simplicity is the key to longevity.
7. Nissan Cherry Vanette
The Nissan Cherry Vanette may not have been the flashiest van on the road, but what it lacked in size, it made up for in efficiency.
Perfect for tight city streets and small parking spots, this van was a lifesaver for businesses that needed a reliable vehicle without the bulk.
Its quirky design and smart use of space earned it a loyal following, proving that big dreams can come in small vans.
8. Renault Estafette
The Renault Estafette added a touch of European charm to the 70s van scene.
This van was agile, practical, and surprisingly stylish. Whether used for business, travel, or even as a food truck, it handled it all with French flair.
Its distinct design and smooth ride ensured that it became a classic in its own right.
9. Mercedes-Benz L407
The Mercedes-Benz L407 was built to last, and that’s exactly what it did.
Known for its sturdy frame and powerful engine, this van was a favorite among businesses and long-haul travelers. It offered a blend of luxury and practicality, proving that reliability didn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort.
10. Peugeot J7
The Peugeot J7 was a common sight across Europe, working tirelessly in a variety of industries.
Its spacious cargo area and efficient design made it a must-have for delivery drivers, food vendors, and businesses that needed a sturdy ride.
Though it wasn’t flashy, it earned respect through sheer reliability.
11. Fiat 238
The Fiat 238 took Italian design and blended it with practicality.
This small yet efficient van was beloved by small business owners and families who needed a vehicle that could navigate narrow streets with ease.
12. International Harvester Metro Van
Built for heavy-duty tasks, the International Harvester Metro Van was a staple of American businesses.
With a boxy shape and massive storage space, it was the go-to van for deliveries, services, and even food trucks.
13. Citroën H Van
Few vans were as unique-looking as the Citroën H Van.
With its corrugated metal exterior and undeniable charm, it became a favorite among entrepreneurs and café owners who needed a reliable yet stylish work van.
14. Mazda Bongo
For those who preferred a compact yet capable ride, the Mazda Bongo was a perfect match.
This little van packed a surprising amount of functionality into its small frame. Whether used for family outings or business deliveries, it was agile, fuel-efficient, and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Despite its size, the Bongo never felt cramped, thanks to its clever interior design. A favorite among budget-conscious drivers, this van proved that big adventures don’t always require a big vehicle.
15. Austin Mini Van
The Austin Mini Van took everything people loved about the Mini and stretched it into a practical, cargo-friendly ride.
Perfect for urban settings and small businesses, this van was fuel-efficient, lightweight, and easy to navigate through crowded streets.
Though it lacked the massive space of its larger counterparts, the Mini Van made up for it with style and efficiency. It was the kind of vehicle that could squeeze into the tightest parking spot but still turn heads on the road.
16. Ford Transit Mk1
The Ford Transit Mk1 was more than just a van—it was an institution.
Businesses relied on it for deliveries, trades, and hauling equipment, while adventurers saw its spacious interior as the ultimate canvas for camper conversions.
Renowned for its durability and adaptability, the Transit Mk1 was a true workhorse that could handle just about anything. It didn’t matter if you needed it for business or pleasure—this van was always up for the task.
17. Opel Blitz
The Opel Blitz was built for the long haul—literally.
This van had a sturdy frame, a powerful engine, and plenty of room for cargo, making it a go-to choice for businesses, tradespeople, and anyone who needed serious hauling capabilities.
Though it was designed with practicality in mind, the Blitz still had a sleek, no-nonsense aesthetic that gave it a commanding presence on the road. It was German engineering at its finest—efficient, durable, and always ready to go.
18. Commer PB
The Commer PB may not have been the most famous van of the 70s, but it certainly had a dedicated following.
With its unique front-end design and practical build, it was popular among business owners, delivery services, and even campers who needed a reliable van with a bit of character.
This British-built beauty wasn’t just about function—it had plenty of charm to spare. Those who drove one knew they had a van that was practical, dependable, and full of personality.