I love the older Ford Econoline’s with the Sportsmobile package. They’re the ultimate roadtrip vehicle. You can pull in to a parking lot, crawl in the back, and go to sleep. Or go to a campground, pop the top up, and have plenty of room to walk around inside. Plus they generally come with a bed, table, fridge, and stove top.
This 1972 Ford Econoline is probably more reliable than most vehicles today. Think about it; It has a beefy Ford 9-inch rear end, a C4 automatic transmission, and a V8 with a carb. No computers, sensors, check engine lights, and computer codes. If someone went wrong, you could probable pull in to about any parts store and fix it.
This one had been for sale some time back in California. Here’s the sellers description:
1972 FORD E200 Sportsmobile 302 V8, C4 auto transmission, no overdrive. 118,365 total miles on van Has the following: A/C, cruise control,power steering, pop top, two beds, fridge, stove, sink, closet, original porta potti, trailer hitch, closet, two auxiliary batteries, Kenwood stereo w/cd, Pioneer 6×9’s ( have original AM/FM radio as well ) everything works. *Less than 1,500 miles on the following: Rebuilt motor w/RV cam, Edlebrock performer intake, Holley four barrel carb, rebuilt tranny, rear diff serviced, rebuilt A/C unit, new stock radiator, electronic fan, water pump, transmission cooler,oil filter relocation kit, heater core, alternator, hoses, belts, drum brakes, brake lines, wheel bearings, front and rear shocks, thermostat, MSD electronic ignition, plugs, wires, main battery (AGM), two auxiliary batteries( deep cell, AGM), door seals, carpeting, vinyl flooring. All four tires are good, have a spare with original cover, have four spare hubcaps, front vinyl seats need new fabric inserts, going to leave that up to new owner to have done. Pop Top has one small dime size hole in screen. Van has a few small rust spots under side molding on passenger side, that do not seem to be growing. I replaced the plastic tray on the dog house cover with a piece of wood and leather. Van had a re-spray in 1984. I have the original intake manifold, carburator and air cleaner,all the original sales receipts,repair receipts, original brochures, and receipts from recent work done .Van is originally from Indiana, first owner bought it new and had the Sportsmobile conversion done in 1972.
I personally had a 1982 Ford Econoline Sportsmobile, and I still regret selling it to this day.
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About The Author
Growing up, my father always believed that every family needed a truck—there’s just something about having a vehicle capable of hauling anything at a moment’s notice. That philosophy stuck with me, and it’s been the foundation of my lifelong passion for Ford trucks.
While I’m best known for my work with Ford Rangers, I’ve owned a wide variety of Ford trucks over the years—including F-150s, F-250s, F-350s, and even larger rigs like the Ford Excursion, Ford Expedition, and a 1982 Ford Econoline Sportsmobile camper van. I’ve used these vehicles for everything from family transportation to towing car trailers and campers, and each one has fueled my love for Ford’s versatility and durability.
I especially enjoy the styling of 1970s and 1980s Ford trucks—the bold designs, rugged presence, and classic charm are timeless. Sharing my passion for Ford trucks, vans, and SUVs with other enthusiasts online brings me a great deal of joy, and it’s why I created Blue Oval Trucks.
This website is dedicated to helping Ford truck enthusiasts explore, learn about, and celebrate these incredible vehicles. While I share my expertise and experiences here, Blue Oval Trucks is an independent enthusiast site and is not affiliated with Ford Motor Company.
