We’ve had several Mercedes vans on here recently, and they seem to interest folks, so here’s one that looks like it could have been a barn find. It’s a 608D located in Portland, Oregon and is up for sale here on eBay with a buy-it-now of $3,800 and bidding starting much lower than that.
These vans are extremely versatile, and have been used for anything from military applications to campers, like this one pictured above. They are unusual in the US, but enough were made that parts evidently aren’t that much of a problem as long as you are willing to source them from overseas. I did find one specialist in California here, so maybe you don’t even have to do that!
Here’s another one for inspiration; this one was used extensively for travel and living quarters (read the story of the conversion here). The seller tells us that the van for sale is powered by an OM 314 Diesel motor that runs great and has a 5-speed transmission. They also state that “almost” all the electrical components and lights are in working condition. They have removed the floor behind the drivers cab during the restoration project, but have not replaced it yet, so you will certainly have some work to do. It starts quickly but has some brake issues that would have to be taken care of before driving it on a regular basis (never mind the missing floor). The price is pretty low, though, and Mercedes diesels are know for their long life. What do you think? Would this make a good support vehicle for a weekend racer?
Very Cool link to their travels thru the years in various campers. Mercedes are great and all that, I have a Chrysler Crossfire, but I’d rather have the Econoline next door.
Break out your wallet, parts are mucho $$$$!!!
They are very reasonably priced parts wise over here in the uk.
They are not bad here in the US either………and they are available, unlike parts for other makes.
Not over here in the uk.
Is the white “Familia” listed for sale somewhere? The exterior looks to be in good cosmetic condition and perhaps the mechanical condition is also as well maintained. I might have interest in it if it is available.
My Mercedes L408d 1971 never fails, starts first time. She’s slow but apart from that she’s sound!
The Mercedes L408d do you know which merc engine it has in and is it turbo . 5 speed Gearbox?.