How Classic Vans Are Turning into a Smart Investment
Classic cars have long held a certain allure. What were once work vehicles, considered too cheap to bother fixing, are now valuable because of their scarcity. However, it’s the van versions of these classics that are becoming increasingly sought-after, offering a unique blend of nostalgia, practicality, and even financial reward.
Derek Mathewson of the TV show “Bangers & Cash,” highlights the shift, explaining that van versions often attract more bidders than their saloon counterparts. He notes that vans were “bought to work – and worked to death,” making them rare.
The classic Citroen H Van, complete with standing room in the back – Hampson Auctions
One of the appealing aspects of classic vans is their potential for business promotion. Mathewson recalls owning five sign-written vans, and the effect they had on his customer base.
Derek Mathewson from ‘Bangers and Cash’ knows the value of the free advertising a van can provide
“You can perhaps give ten grand and even more for a very, very good Morris Minor van to advertise your business,” he says. “I can guarantee the van will work. And then if you feel it’s done its job, cash it in and get all your money back. It’s free advertising at the end of the day.”
Mathewson points out that the market is particularly strong for “recognisable old vehicles” like Ford vans – the van versions of the Anglia, 100E, and 105E – and Morris Minors. However, he notes the popularity of Marina vans, despite their reputation, due to their scarcity.
Recognisable vans such as the Morris 6 cwt remain popular today – Hampson Auctions
Iconic Vans and Their Appeal
Two iconic 1960s vans, the Ford Transit Mk1 and the Citroen H Van, have become particularly desirable, albeit for different reasons.
The “smiley-front” Transits are doing extremely well, says Mathewson. Mike Brewer, co-presenter of “Wheeler Dealers,” echoes this sentiment, highlighting the nostalgia factor. He mentioned converting a 1974 ex-German fire service Transit: “I’d fallen in love with it. It was so practical. No problems with ULEZ zones, and you could tell why criminals loved them as getaway vehicles: they handled like a Ford Escort.”
A 1965 Transit Mark 1 – Peter Lee, Transit Van Club
He suggests that a buyer’s market currently exists, although the days of exceptionally high prices for Mk1 Transits may be over.
Investing in a Classic Van
For those considering acquiring a classic van for daily use, Mathewson suggests the Austin A55 or A60 van. He advises spending at least £10,000 to £15,000 for a well-maintained vehicle, emphasizing the sound investment they represent.
The Austin 6cwt van was built on the same production line as the Morris Minor – Hampson Auctions
Richard Durrant from Dragon Classics in North Wales, who restores and converts Citroen H and HY Vans, notes their quirky appeal, particularly for mobile catering businesses. The vans’ corrugated metal, front-wheel drive, and front engine design features create a unique driving and user experience.
The corrugated metal panels of the Citroen H Van make it an ideal option for catering businesses – Hampson Auctions
“They seem to draw a crowd wherever they go,” says Durrant. Usable H Vans start at roughly £18,000 in the UK, with the best ones exceeding £40,000. The classic van market can be profitable, as Alan Mason of tvandmoviecars.co.uk, can attest. He brokers deals between TV and film production companies and classic vehicle owners, with vans earning their owners between £100 and £500 a day, depending on the production.
