Most restomods conjure images of sleek Porsche 911s, brimming with carbon fiber and high-revving engines. However, a new player has entered the field, offering a unique take on the classic car revival: the off-road focused War Truck by VAN DARYL. Instead of starting with pristine, well-preserved vehicles, VAN DARYL is giving a new lease on life to Jeeps that served during the Vietnam War.
Founded by Van Daryl Villanueva, VAN DARYL is a fresh name in the coachbuilding world. Despite their new entry into the market, they have considerable experience creating exclusive vehicles for prestigious clients, including MB&F in Geneva and Dubai, LVMH in Paris, and Lane Crawford in Hong Kong. But their latest creation has a story rooted in more humble beginnings. Decades after the Vietnam War, many US Army Jeeps remain scattered across the streets of Saigon, left to decay. Seeing these relics, the idea was born to preserve these vehicles, repurposing them for a modern age.
VAN DARYL emphasizes that the War Truck’s design philosophy centers on refining the original Army Jeep’s aesthetic to its core. They aim for respectful evolution rather than a complete reinvention. Each vehicle undergoes a painstaking restoration. This process includes reinforcing the frame and hand-finishing precision-cut aluminum body panels. The interior features hand-stitched calf leather and hand-treated maple wood inserts, injecting a touch of luxury and warmth. Customers can also choose between analog or digital gauges, based on personal preference.
While the original battle-tested 4-cylinder, 2.3-liter engine is standard, VAN DARYL is open to adding more power for those who desire it. The most notable departure from the original design is the War Truck’s front end. It now features advanced LED lighting with powerful headlights for increased visibility, along with distinctive brake lights and turn signals meticulously designed to complement the War Truck’s minimalist design.
With an introductory price of $79,000, the War Truck is more accessible than many other restomod offerings on the market. The project signifies a unique approach to the restomod scene, transforming historical vehicles into desirable, modern machines.
It’s a compelling proposition. Would you choose a War Truck over a modern Jeep? Perhaps the answer is clear.
