Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[wiggleit 1]

H folks!
New here and anxious to soak up any advice you could chuck my way
I'm looking for a project, not a re-build, but am pretty handy so can manage most basic stuff.
1950s-late '60s, small 2-3 berth max.
At present I drive a Punto 1.2 16v well no garage (and it is fun to drive) So realise I am severely limited on weight (450k max??)
I have 2 options...get something like a Portafold ('ok' but doesn't really hit my 'aesthetic' buttons) but at least I could be off to events this year. Or hang out for a 'proper' van, do it up over the summer and then change my wee car for something meatier.
Yes, I know, only I can answer this question, so have decided to let fate sway my hand and just look for something 'right'...
Here's where help is needed.
What makes and models would you recommend? Trailing through Flea Bay when you don't know your Cadets from yer Carlines is frustrating at the very least.
Does anyone have or know of something suitable?
Any good events to visit where I could look at different models and chat to helpful owners?
I live in N Cumbria, prepared to travel but obviously prefer more local.
Phew...that was a big one...i don't always have so much to say....honest

Thanks guys

[alan 869]

Well, only you know what you want. I don´t think I would limit myself to a certain weight. Rather get a car that will pull what you end up fancying. I would look through all of this section and see as many different vans as pos. All my vans, apart from the first SMV, I stumbled over not thinking that I would want this or that. Don´t restrict yourself to the UK either have a look at the older continental vans and see if there is anything you like. I have a preference for fiberglass vans because they usually have more flowing lines and the fact that repairing them is often easier. So definately get the van first and then the car

Have a look through all of this. Press: Länkar (links). Hundreds of vans from around the continent...

http://www.kenneths.se/campingveteranerna/lankar.html

[wiggleit 1]

Thanks for that and good advice.
Think importing something would likely put it out of my (limited) budget....the white one on your avatar is lovely tho...whats that?

[alan 869]

There are quite a few of the continental ones in the UK so I don´t think you would have to import one. Anyway if you were to buy, say a Constructam, in Belgium or Holland then you could just go over and pick it up. There is a club in Denmark for the Graziella.

The van in my Avtar is quite rare unfortunately. Willerby Vogue. Just over a 100 made in 1956-57. A couple have come up on ebay in the past and one has been renovated with a thread on here. Bought ours just south of Montrose in 2002. Total wreck. Been standing next to the North Sea for 20 years or more. Now finally finished (just about). I would get a 2 berth Carlight Cassetta if I were you. Or a small Safari. But get to see as many vans as pos and see where it takes you. Good Luck