Ford’s clever marketing slogan – AdVANtage Ford! – reminded customers that the Econoline was ready for anything. The company had plenty of practice adapting the van’s format since launching the model in 1961 with a mid-engine layout on a Falcon frame. That early model was a little guy, measuring 168″ from tip to toe, equipped with one of three in-line six-cylinders and constructed as a unibody. Later, the Econoline was developed to handle more muscular tasks including towing: the motor moved to the very front of the nose to free up the cargo area, the body was set on a truck frame, multiple lengths and a variety of V8s were offered. From the third generation of this venerable van comes a 1978 E150 short-wheelbase converted to 4WD, advertised here on craigslist for $8900. Drive it home from Tacoma, Washington (visit the LeMay auto museum while you’re up there!). Thanks to Scott for finding this useful tip for us!

One of several V8s resides in here – choices ran from Ford’s 302 cu. in. up to a 460; an automatic transmission handles gear changes. We aren’t told who performed the 4×4 conversion, but Quigley Motor Company and Ujoint Offroad both do the work. The shorty’s wheelbase measures 124″ and its overall length is 187″; the standard van came in at 138″ and 207″, respectively. The seller quotes the odometer at 98,000 miles and indicates he needs cash so he won’t take trades.

Factory interior configurations fell into two broad categories – cargo or passenger. But these days, you can consult one of the many customizers willing to make your dreams come true – given enough money. As it sits, this example is a seven-passenger, with a sofa in the rear. That sofa converts into a bed. Note the engine cover that still intrudes into the cabin to facilitate mechanical service. For all its miles, this cabin is pretty spiffy.

Buyers could choose a variety of door options – from side sliders to these at the rear. In addition to four-wheel-drive, this van sports a rear hitch; the E150’s towing capacity can be as much as 5000 lbs. Shiny paint and chrome, decent wheels, a tidy undercarriage, and a well-kept interior make for an attractive presentation here. The go-anywhere 4WD feature is almost irresistible. I’d love to hit the road in this van after imposing a few civilizing touches in the rear of this Econoline…. How would you renovate the cabin? or would you leave it as is?