The panel van wasn’t just a vehicle — it was an oh-so-70s symbol of youth, freedom, and surf. Born as a humble workhorse, it transformed into something legendary, thanks to the van clubs that sprouted across Australia.

Loud, colourful, and endlessly customisable, they had room for everything — a surfboard, a bed, a quadraphonic sound system, and maybe even a bar. Dealer’s choice.

They were also as much about the party (and what happened in the back…) as they were about the road. “If this van’s a-rockin’, don’t come a-knockin’…” became part of its more complex legacy.

Cars are freedom on four wheels, but panel vans? They took that freedom to a whole new level.

Special thanks to:

• Tony Davis
• Doug Willis
• Anna Krien
• Kathy Lette

Thanks to eBay. Shop on eBay. Where you can find parts for every project car, from sellers you can trust.

Disclaimer: eBay is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, any of the brands discussed in this podcast episode.