Given the vast size of some modern recreational vehicles, the mindset must be bigger is better, as many seem to have a footprint more like that of a big-rig semi. I get that those rolling hotels are comfortable and accommodating, but fun times can also be experienced in a much smaller package, making maneuverability easier and reducing operational costs to a minimum. For those digging the idea of owning a practical yet unusual camper, this 1967 Sunbeam Funwagon here on Facebook Marketplace might be an ideal fit for your lifestyle. At $7,500, this one should also leave enough cash leftover to plan an enjoyable outing sooner rather than later, so head over to East Dubuque, Illinois, to check this mini motorhome out in person. Rocco B., thanks for the excellent tip here!
Although these vehicles proved popular in the UK, they didn’t seem to capture the same kind of enthusiastic audience in the US, and are quite rare to spot in America. Manufactured by a British company known as the Rootes Group, this model was known as the Commer Highwayman in its native territory, but branded the Sunbeam Funwagon in the States. This one appears to be in surprisingly good shape outside, with the seller reporting no rust and describing the condition as great. It’s also said to have been driven only 18,000 miles, so the lack of excessive use has likely played a role in preserving the exterior.
While the sleeping quarters aren’t exactly luxurious, the space is large enough not to make me feel claustrophobic, and the mattress can hold one guest comfortably- two or more if they enjoy being really close to one another. The fixtures in here are likely adequate without extensive renovations, but the interior also seems receptive for a redo. I’m thinking replacing those old cabinets and countertop might be in order, and perhaps adding a few custom touches and some bling would brighten up this area and make it more inviting. Just installing curtains over the side windows would be a great start.
The front section could stand sprucing up as well, but if it’s just a bare-bones vibe you’re after behind the wheel, this section delivers as-is. No photos of the engine are shown, but the seller says the original 1725 cc inline-4 is still under the cover, producing just under 100 horsepower. This one’s certainly better suited for leisurely travel than extended high-speed drives, but there is a 4-speed manual transmission, so being able to shift your own gears should add some enjoyment for the driver. Have you ever heard of or seen a Sunbeam Funwagon before? Any interest in pursuing this one?
Howard 🤔 🏕
I feel this design was parodied in the Simpsons.
Looks like a food truck.
Just what I was thinking. HOTDOGS!
In all my life I have never heard of the Sunbeam Funwagon. I guess the name was a product of the Summer of Love.
New to me
Commer was the commercial truck end of the Rootes group. Very common site in the UK back in the day. They were called caravans instead of motor rooms. Has the same engine as my Alpine so I would think its a little under powered. Of course travel in the UK was very different then the US so small camping trips would be in order here. Not sure I would take it cross country.
Talk about rare! (here in US) I just would not want to break down and be looking for parts. It will get attention if that is what you are looking for! It looks like a’ Mr. Chippy’ food van in the movie, “The Commitments”
Great movie.
I hope you aren’t going far……..top speed is probably 45mph.
Very cool tho !
Looks like a Mister Softee truck on sterioids….
This is another “festival rig” that we see again and again in the “vintage” RV market. Hippies are not going to pay $7500 for this. If it runs, they’ll pay $1000 and run it until it doesn’t. Know your market.
The only other market is as California curbside housing, and again, anyone in that market dos not have $7500.
Depending on reliability it might be nice to have a place to lie down.
SOLD
The seller must know his market!
Had the same motor in a couple of sunbeam alpines, put many thousand miles on them with no problems
I dig the size, my wife wouldn’t. She wants a tent or a class A. I guess real camping (tent) or just taking your house with you. No in-between for her. This shouldn’t have the leaky roof issues of US made minis. And aero-wise is better than most. I would be tempted to install more horsepower with a 5 speed gearbox. (Needless to say enough torque to use 5th gear) And depending on who your traveling with, an interior redo might be in order. I kind of like it! And definitely a,full set of curtains!
Jimmy Savile had one of these yeah?
All it really needs is a Ford 260 or a 289 CI swap and a few discrete TIGER badges on the front fenders.
I fitted a 1725cc engine and overdrive 4 speed box to a UK version of this back in the day, engine and gearbox is the same as a Hillman Hunter, Sunbeam Alpine, and others, I think in the UK the std. engine was 1500cc ? my father drove it from London England to Greece in the early 70’s, would manage about 65-70 mph with overdrive.