Top 10: Car-derived commercials
Creating a van or pick-up from a passenger-carrying car isn’t exactly a new concept. In fact, it’s probably as old as the motor car itself. For obvious reasons, however, such vehicles tend to be relatively rare in terms of their survival rate; after all, a commercial vehicle bought to work hard for a living is unlikely to last as long as a privately owned car that’s cared for, serviced and probably even washed and polished from time to time.
No wonder the most popular car-derived classic commercials have seen hefty increases in values over the last few years. Here we pay tribute to ten of the best. Which one would you choose?
By Paul Guinness, Contributor
Reliant had done well with three-wheeled vans throughout much of the ’60s, thanks to its Regal-based Supervan. But the launch of the new Robin in 1973 saw the commercial trike brought right up to date, with modern styling, more power and a much improved interior. The 748cc engine was upgraded to 848cc by 1975, while 1981 saw the Robin being replaced by the Rialto Van – effectively the same but with new front-end styling.
Original-style Robin Vans are now fairly scarce, and values have risen as a result, although you can still pick up a later Rialto for sensible money.
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