Van culture reached its zenith in the 1970s, and those of us who lived through that period can remember some pretty wild creations. From dazzling paint to airbrushed murals and outrageous interior appointments, these vehicles were a veritable home-away-from-home for the owners. This 1977 Chevrolet G20 Shorty Van carries hallmarks of that era and is a blank canvas for someone to create a tribute to those times. It features a healthy small-block and has recently received some mechanical TLC. The seller has listed the G20 here on eBay in Seattle, Washington. They haven’t received any bids on their No Reserve auction that opened at $8,850. However, the listing statistics suggest that could change at any time.

Chevrolet introduced a new generation of its Van range for the 1971 model year, with the last examples rolling off the line in 1996. Buyers could choose from three wheelbase lengths to cater to specific needs, with our feature 1977 G20 riding on the shortest of these. Its history is unclear, but there are more than a few hints that this was a custom job in its glory days. From the oval porthole side windows to the Cragar wheels and side exhaust, it would have turned heads in its prime. It requires a total cosmetic restoration to return to that form, although the process may not be complicated. The panels sport a few bumps and bruises, and there is rust developing in the passenger-side front fender. However, the seller describes the Van as “solid,” suggesting no nasty surprises are lurking below the surface. One of the biggest challenges facing the winning bidder is found on the roof. A previous owner removed the sunroof, welding in a patch panel to fill the hole. The term “rough” would be the kindest and most diplomatic to use when describing the work quality, and this aspect of the Van requires particular attention. There are a couple of options available, including reworking the area for a better finish or cutting out the patch to install another sunroof. The decision will rest on the buyer’s vision for this classic.

I would describe this G20’s interior as tidy and serviceable, with no gaping holes in the upholstered surfaces. It features an aftermarket wheel and a modern stereo, along with a few aging custom touches in the back. This is where the new owner can let their imagination off the leash. Those creating these vehicles during the van culture heyday left nothing on the table. Crushed velour trim was common, as were beds, bars, TVs, and booming stereos. I have even seen interiors with timber columns, stained leadlight glass, and one with a potbelly stove! Recreating that look is possible, although adding a modern twist with items like an LCD TV and wireless internet access for streaming may prove irresistible. Of course, those not drawn by the retro theme could strip the interior and fit it out as a practical and comfortable weekend camper. This is a case of horses for courses and, if the winning bidder is hands-on, the transformation may not be expensive.

The seller supplies no engine photos, confirming that this G20 is powered by a 350ci V8, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission. The company’s Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 165hp and 260 ft/lbs, making it a competent performer that will cruise effortlessly on the open road. There is plenty of positive news for potential buyers seeking a turnkey project candidate. The seller was told by the previous owner that the small-block was new, and has only clocked 15,000 miles since being installed. The Van recently received new tires, along with a complete front end, brakes, shocks, U-joints, a driveshaft, and a battery. It is ready to be enjoyed immediately as the winning bidder contemplates their strategies for this classic.

The big question facing the new owner of this 1977 Chevrolet G20 Shorty Van is what they should do with it once it is safely stashed in their garage. Creating an accurate tribute to the 1970s van culture would be easy because there are plenty of photos available online from which they could draw inspiration. They could follow the traditional path, or add a few twists utilizing modern fittings and technology. Alternatively, it is a prime candidate for a camper conversion, providing a comfortable weekend escape. The listing has attracted over 280 views in the past day, and forty-three people have added the G20 to their Watch List. It will be interesting to see if those figures translate into bids, or whether we have any readers willing to beat those people to the punch. If that proves the case, I will be fascinated to learn what the future holds for this beauty.