Mercedes Makes a Much Cooler Microbus
Go German, go old-school, but make sure you go your own way.
One perplexing thing about automotive enthusiasts is how unimaginative we can sometimes be. There are some unique choices and cars out there, but it seems that overall the vast majority of us just follow the same trends and rules. Where is the imagination and personal expression? From jacked-up Jeeps to slammed Hondas, and everything in between, we are all treading the same worn ground.
And that’s why every one of you should be swooning over this MBWorld – Mercedes-Benz O 319 Van.
The VW Microbus thing is so overdone. Everyone paints it showroom-fresh or wild hippie tie-dye, and basically every one of them has some sort of Subaru motor swap to make them actually drivable.
The VW Microbus thing is so overdone. Everyone paints it showroom-fresh or wild hippie tie-dye, and basically every one of them has some sort of Subaru motor swap to make them actually drivable. But this Mercedes is so much more than that. It’s a combination of vintage time-machine and custom luxury motorhome. And the craftsmanship looks incredible.
It took 15 years to restore and modify this O 319, and we are madly in love. Not only is the exterior in pristine condition, featuring sexy dual-tone, blue-and-white paint, and polished metal work, but the interior is borderline perfect. The seats have been recovered in real leather, the dash and trim features plenty of real wood, and the in-cabin storage features custom-built cabinets, a sink, a stove, and full wiring and lighting for every cubby in the interior. For the greatest level of off-grid capability, new owners will also find solar panels, propane and water storage all tucked into the underbody.
The final and most substantial change is for reliability and driving dynamics. Under the hood you’ll find a “modern” fuel-injected Mercedes engine mated to a new automatic transmission.
If living an adventure-filled life of beach trips, off-grid camping and stylish rolls through the local cars and coffee events sounds like your dream, you can buy this Mercedes and make it happen. It’s being auctioned off by RM Sotheby’s with no reserve. Expected pricing is in the $175k-200k range, which may sound like a lot, but exclusivity and individuality are worth paying for.
Join the MBWorld Forums now — FREE!
