27th Jul 2008, 13:16
My husband and I love the '80s Toyota Vans; we have three! We have two '85s (one automatic and one manual) and one '86 (manual). They are so much fun to drive and so flexible (camp in, haul stuff, haul family--including dog). We added a 30 amp hook-up with four electrical outlets and a cable TV outlet to one of our '85s, so we can camp in style, for just $255. We can't see buying a new car and making all those new car payments. Our repairs are minimal each year (less than one new car payment). We also just plain like the handling, etc. The only draw-back is getting to the engine (you have to lift up the driver's seat to check oil and coolant), but once we have, it's no big deal. We always liked the looks of the 80s Vans. They have lots of "character." Besides, we argue that the new car smell goes away pretty fast, but not the payments, insurance, etc. The only thing I wish we could do is repaint and trick them out. That would be fun, but very expensive. It will happen eventually (but first the '56 Nash Metropolitan, '78 Mercedes 450 SL, and '78? BMW 2002tii, and '69 VW Bus). Enjoy!
5th Oct 2008, 20:15
I have a '85 Toyota van with about 230,000 miles on it. I found it parked in the weeds at a farm house 2 years ago. I offered the guy $500, jumped the battery and drove off.
I haul around all my electrical tools in it, ladders, family, kids, firewood and appliances (and sleeping bags when I go camping).
I love this van. I wish I could improve the gas mileage a little; I get about 20 mpg, repairs have been minimal. I plan on driving it for as long as it'll go.
31st May 2010, 11:15
I have 2 LE 85 vans. One is auto, one is manual.
The auto has been undergoing a complete restoration of the A/C system and cooling system. It has 230000 miles on it.
It gets 22 mpg and I plan to keep it for another 10 to 15 years.
It has dual A/C; ice maker and dual sunroofs. I usually compare it to newer vans and their lack of sunroofs like the rear one on the van, or the lack of a chilled one while you drive...
30th Sep 2007, 18:46
I have a 1985 Toyota van, LE edition, got it when it had 64,000 miles on it, 2 years later it has only 78,000 miles, runs great, only had to fix the fuel line, barely any rust, and I'm only the 3rd owner! I love her!