There are several areas in my town where an older home is frequently torn down, followed by the construction of a pair of what we call tall-and-skinny houses on the property. The first thing that came to mind when I saw this 1987 Suzuki Alto Walkthrough van was how well its styling would match one of these modern residences if it were sitting in the driveway, but no matter where this one is, it’s likely to draw some attention. Barn Finds reader Zappenduster spotted this unusual hauler here on Facebook Marketplace in Chesterton, Indiana, and we’d like to thank him for providing the tip! Given the rarity of this novelty in the States, I’m thinking the $11,500 asking price might not be too far off from a reasonable amount to consider paying here.
The seller reports that he imported this Suzuki from Japan and claims it gets more attention than anything else on the road. While I can’t confirm or deny that, it’s certainly a bit cooler looking than one of those Ford Transit Connect vans from a few years ago, for example, which were also of the tall and somewhat thin concept, although the Ford will go faster and is likely more practical. The seller doesn’t mention anything about the engine or include a photo, but many of these apparently came equipped with a 550cc 3-cylinder powerplant, so they’re probably best for mostly city driving.
The condition outside appears to be excellent all around, and the paint still looks good as well. The sliding door on the left side is large, plus the rear point of entry is also substantial, and I love that it’s in two pieces, so getting cargo in and out should be an easy task. There’s also a roof rack on top, but as tall as this thing is, a ladder may be required to access it.
A peek inside reveals a fairly basic interior, but these were made for hauling, so that’s to be expected. However, there is a small extra seat toward the back, so you can bring one friend when you’re ready to cruise around town or drive this one to a car show. While I kind of appreciate the simplicity inside, I could also understand the urge to customize a few things to give it a more vintage party van vibe, like adding more carpeting and decorating those walls. Any thoughts to share about this 1987 Suzuki Alto Walkthrough?
( chuckling) Got to admire the Asians, since they are land locked and can’t spread out, they have to go up. I don’t know, one of them Chee-nook winds Geo talks about, blow this thing off the map. In those videos of typhoons in Asia, you always see these bobbing down the flooded streets. Go ahead and laugh( me), but as these home delivery deals gain steam, you’ll see a lot more of this, package delivery is huge. Who is laughing now, eh?
Howard, Japan is an island, actually several islands. Regardless, the Alto was a dreary drive, in whichever configuration. It’s the only truly boring Suzuki I have driven.
So what cartoon is this from?
As quirky as it is it’s actually cute. Right hand drive with sliding windows. I hope the heater puts out enough b.t.u.’s to clear the windshield. The only thing i ever say is if something breaks where do you get parts?
I would think the engine could generate enough heat to clear a windshield as long as the fan is strong enough to get the air across it all. Being a Suzuki, I’m sure parts are available easily enough but you may have to buy from Japan. Plenty of JDM parts suppliers these days. A big one is Amayama.
I’d have to have 2, one for each foot!
This might be just right if you had to move a lot of small stuff around town. The wiggly stick suggests more than 3 speeds forward. Could be slow but interesting fun.
How much would 3 cylinders put out in HP, inquiring minds would love to know,
Well, 550 ccd is around 33-34 cid. If you had 1hp/cid, then not much.
LS swap?
Maybe, but I was thinking a turbocharged V6 due to space restrictions. Given that it’s a Suzuki a Hyabusa engine might work but the high center of gravity would definitely be restrictive in cornering. On the straightaway though I bet it would be big fun. :-)
Looks like we now know where the inspiration for the new USPS truck came from.
Ice cream truck!