As we know, fashion trends come and go, but often fashions that extend into motor vehicles can lead to people owning treasured vintage vehicles. We are not just talking about classic cars here, but also about vintage utility vehicles that were purchased at the time as much for their form and function rather than their good looks.
Take for example, classic camper vans from the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. These are now considered to be vintage vehicles and are highly prized and treasured by their owners. But it is not only their current owners who are enthusiastic about their old vintage vans because they still evoke feelings and memories of times gone by. These days many trendy youngsters are looking to buy old camper vans as well as vintage vehicles such as classic horse transporters, utility vans and even old milk-floats! Many will have in mind a bespoke vintage vehicle conversion to re-purpose their old camper van or classic utility vehicle into something new, but at the same time retains its 'retro-feel'.
There seems to be a bit of a trend these days for budding solo-entrepreneurs to look at vintage vehicle conversions as a way to launch a truly unique micro-business, such as selling old-fashioned sweets from their vintage vehicle at steam fairs, country fates and other large outdoor events. There are plenty of other examples, such as a small cupcake company selling hot ground coffee and homemade cupcakes, or a jewellery designer turning her vintage VW camper van into a mobile workshop and selling their wares at similar events.
Sourcing vintage vehicles
If you have a mind to start looking around for a suitable vintage vehicle that can be converted into something practical, functional or simply beautiful for others to admire, you can look for vintage vehicles online or through specialist trade magazines and websites. Sometimes you may strike lucky and uncover a hidden treasure that has been hiding in the back of a garage or old stable for years. A few vintage vehicles come to market when new owners take over an old house and decide to clear out and de-clutter old buildings standing on their grounds. In a lot of cases the new owner just wants rid of it and may not fully appreciate the hidden value of the vehicle that has been sitting right under their nose.
Vintage camper vans will typically have either wood or aluminium frames, depending on their age, brand and condition. You may be able to pick up an old camper van for a few hundred pounds, but once completely restored – or converted – could realise a few thousand pounds. Don't forget that what you will be creating by restoring and converting an old vehicle will be something very unique, which will ultimately add to its desirability.
Keeping that vintage look
We are talking about the old classic VW Camper van here because they are a pretty iconic example of what a vintage camper van looks like in most people's minds. However, there are plenty of other makes and models of camper vans, vintage delivery or transportation lorry’s and vans that also carry that desirable vintage look that most people want to retain throughout their restoration and conversion plans.
This is why it is very important that you work with professionals when dealing with any vintage vehicle conversions. If you want to take a classic looking vehicle and convert it into something practical, especially if you want it to be an integral part of a new business launch, then you need to know that you can trust the company dealing with your conversion. You will want to know that your precious vintage vehicle is in very safe hands and fully understand your requirements. This will go a long way to avoid mistakes being made and your vehicle coming back looking very different from what you expected.
Vintage vehicle conversion specialists
Working with a professional vintage vehicle converting company such as Osborne Motor Bodies, you will be benefiting from our many years of service in this industry. Founded in 1920, our family business has gone from strength to strength over the years. Vehicle conversion is in our blood, so we look at each conversion in great detail as no two projects are ever the same!
For example, we take everything into consideration, including how your will be using your converted vintage vehicle. This means we will look at working aspects such as materials used to give a lightweight yet strong framework, an aerodynamic design and weight distribution considerations to allow you to drive long distances more smoothly and with greater ease.
Yes, buying your first vintage vehicle for conversion can be a lot of fun, but we are here to help you not only realise your dream of a successful conversion, but to also advise and pass on our vast knowledge and experience from our years of bespoke vintage vehicle conversions.
Working with a reputable company that is well known for their vehicle conversions can save you a lot of headaches. We are experts in our field and can assist you with plenty of vital information and considerations to take on board before your conversion begins. We will need to discuss with you about which original components or features that your vintage vehicle carries that you would like to retain. We can work through your ideas for your conversion and what end results you wish to achieve.
Why not contact our friendly team to discuss your vintage vehicle conversion plans and let us help you to create your perfect vehicle.
