Ford E-Series: Econoline & Club Wagon + Transit Lineup
Welcome to Ford Econoline Van the ultimate authority website on vintage, classic, used and new Ford full size vans. EconolineVans.com features the stock Ford models as well as the countless variations and aftermarket modified custom vans; including but not limited to ford van conversions, 4X4 and off-road, camper, delivery / sprinter (Transit & Transit Connect), cargo, passenger and commercial work and utility vans.
Also featured on this website are places to find both new and used Ford Econoline Vans for sale, with detailed write-ups on how to use advanced online tools to search nationwide on classifieds like Craigslist. You will also find comprehensive Ford Van Specs, including fuel economy, technical data and dimensional information. Lastly Ford Econoline Van features information and resources for finding Econline OEM salvage parts and new aftermarket accessories including stock and custom seating.
If you are looking to dive right into a particular type of Ford Econoline Van use our full website navigation to the right. Otherwise feel free to read on for a brief history of Ford Vans including the rebranding from Econoline and Club Wagon to the current Ford E-Series. Please contact us with any general inquires. Thank you for stopping by!
Quick Background: Ford Motor Company
Ford is by popular opinion the most iconic auto brand in America, having revolutionized personal transportation with the Model T in 1908; Ford moved the United States off of horses and behind the wheel. The obsession with automobiles have only grown over the past 100 years with many brands emerging including Ford owned Lincoln, Mercury among other marquees.
Ford Econoline Van History
The Ford full size Econoline and Club Wagon Van and E-Series has been a staple for Ford since its introduction in 1961, helping to revolutionize the automotive market during the process. Not only is the Ford E-Series the bestselling American full size van but also holds nearly 80% of the market share in the US. A large reason for this is that 95% of van sales are for commercial or fleet use with half of this focused on cargo use. Commercial or utility use is a specialty for the Econoline van.
Classic & Vintage Econoline Vans
Early Econoline vans were based on the Ford Falcon and where considered compact cargo vans. The early 60s Econoline vans were designed to compete with the Chevrolet Corvair 95 and Volkwagon Type 2 (VW Bus) passenger vans. The original Econoline layout was unique in that a cab over with mid-engine design was implemented. The popularity of this style led to the adoption by both the Chevrolet / GMC Step Van and Dodge A100 and later by Japanese auto makers.
Ford Econoline Pickup TruckAlong with being produced as an 8 passenger van, the first generation Econoline was also made as a 2 door pickup truck. These vehicles are rare and highly collectible.
Modern Ford Econoline & E-Series Van
With the introduction of the second generation Econoline Van, Ford would implement a new and unique design element that would drastically change not only the full size van market but the recreational vehicle / motorhome segment as well. Like the European market Ford Transit, the 1969 Ford Econoline van would feature an ultra-compact front engine design. This would allow for a more balanced ride and larger V8 engine capacities.
Another notable change came when the third generation was introduced in 1975. The Econoline was redesigned on a new platform more akin to pickup truck. Changes included a full hood and styling similar to F-Series trucks but more importantly a full frame. This allowed for the chassis to be used for cutaway vans such as ambulances, school buses, box trucks and more.
After a long and prosperous run, Ford is discontinuing the E-Series after model year 2013. The only exception will be for use as a chassis for school buses, shuttles, motorhomes, box trucks and other utility vehicles. Taking its place will by the full size Ford Transit and supplemental Transit Connect.
Ford Transit & The Future of Full Size Vans
The Ford Transit has been in production since 1965 and has been Ford's competing van in the European market going up against the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. As the market is favoring more fuel efficient Sprinter style vans, Ford will be replacing the Econoline with the Transit. Ford will also continue to provide the supplemental Transit Connect which is a popular delivery and light utility vehicle.
Learn more about the Ford Transit and Ford Transit Connect
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