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For a vehicle with stories to tell, you can’t beat the humble van. Light commercial vehicles and pick-ups are not just part of motoring history – they give insights into the bygone world of work, too.

So, if you want to pick up a pick-up or purchase a vintage van, we’ve chosen 10 of the best to give you some inspiration.

And whether you choose a Bedford, a Renault or a Dodge, do contact us at Lancaster to arrange your classic car insurance.

What’s the appeal of classic vans or pick-ups?

Firstly, vans have got a rarity value. Commercial drivers tend to rack up the mileage and work their vans hard, so the examples that survive today are often more appreciated.

Plus, there’s a huge nostalgia value. These vintage utility, trade or delivery vehicles give a window onto British working life from a bygone era. You might even come across some that still bear their business branding.

And you might also find them more practical. If you enjoy attending classic vehicle rallies or events, then a light commercial vehicle is a great way to travel, with room for all your camping equipment.

There are many models you could choose, from big names such as Ford and Volkswagen as well as long-gone marques such as Commer. Here are 10 for you to consider.

1. Commer Express Delivery Van

There’s a special place in British motoring history for Commer, which produced commercial vehicles for much of the 20^th century. And none of its products are more iconic than its Express Delivery Van, manufactured throughout the 1950s.

This gem was derived from the Hillman Minx saloon, also produced by parent company the Rootes Group. Along with its pick-up version, the Commer Express became ubiquitous on British streets.

Unusually for the time, the Commer Express had 12-volt electrics, including twin windscreen wipers and flashing indicators. Its independent coil-sprung suspension also gave occupants a more comfortable journey than was standard, while its distinctive ‘opticurve’ windscreen offered the driver great visibility.

Sadly, these vehicles were prone to rust, so you won’t find many examples today. And the Commer brand has long since disappeared, with the Rootes Group bought by Chrysler and later Peugeot in the 1960s and 1970s.

2. Bedford CA

While many manufacturers have adapted cars into vans, Bedford’s vans are among its most lightweight products. The CA model, also known as the ‘Tilley’, was a huge seller in its 50s and 60s heyday and remains iconic to this day.

Manufactured between 1952 and 1969, the CA panel van is distinctive for its ‘pug nose’ front. There were short and long wheelbase versions, and these became the basis for ice cream vans, ambulances, pick-ups, and campervans.

Bedford replaced the CA with the CF, but this failed to compete with the new kid on the block: the Ford Transit.

Once a common sight on the UK’s roads, the CA is now, sadly, rare. If you manage to find one, make sure you protect it with classic car insurance.

3. Morris Minor vans or pick-ups

Nothing seems more British than the good old ‘Moggy’. After its launch in 1948, the Morris Minor became a sensation: it was the first car to sell more than one million in Britain.

So naturally, Morris built on this popularity by launching a van and pick-up version in 1953 – both of which were quickly snapped up by countless businesses, including the Post Office.

These vans were produced until 1973 and went through several changes. You might find early quarter-ton models today, but you’re more likely to come across the 6cwt or 8cwt versions from the 1960s. After 1968, you’ll also find Austin-badged models.

Whichever you choose, you’re getting a British design classic with a rich history. Enjoy the ride!

4. Ford Thames 400e

It’s hard to believe now, but there was a time when Ford was not a leading name when it came to light commercial vehicles. That all began to change with the advent of the Thames 400e.

Manufactured between 1957 and 1965, this model quickly became the van of choice for many tradespeople and businesses.  While its predecessor, the Thames 300e, was a variant on a Ford Anglia 105e, the new 400e was designed from scratch as a van.

What was special about the 400e? Its outrigger chassis made it highly convertible, so it became the basis for countless variations: ambulances, ice cream vans, campervans, and fire engines, to name just a few.

Its tight turning circle suited it to life on urban streets, while its 1703cc engine was speedy by the standards of the time.

Other distinguishing features were its forward control driving position, three-speed gearbox, and Ford’s vacuum-operated windscreen wipers – notorious for cutting out half-way up a hill.

The Thames and Thames Traders names were given to all Ford commercial vehicles in the UK until they were replaced by the all-conquering Transit van in 1965. Yes, Transits really have been on our streets that long, and are well deserving of classic status, too.

Whichever Ford van you choose, the specialists at Lancaster would be delighted to quote for classic van or classic car insurance for you.

5. Renault 4 Fourgonette

There’s something about the French language that makes anything, no matter how mundane, sound glamorous to British ears. ‘Fourgonette’ simply means ‘van’ but this is one with a certain French je ne sais quoi.

The Renault 4 Fourgonette was launched in 1961, and quickly became the quintessential French boulangerie van. So, if you like to imagine yourself tootling around Paris or Provence selling baguettes, this is the vehicle for you.

It’s famous for its giraffon: the ‘giraffe hatch’ above the rear door to enable long loads to poke out of the top. Today’s driver might be more wary of such ingenious designs, but you can still appreciate the van’s full independent suspension – advanced for its time.

The high cube body offered companies lots of advertising space. Perhaps you’ll be able to find a model that still bears the branding of its previous owners? The last Renault 4 Fourgonette was manufactured as recently as 1993, so it’s still possible to find one of these little beauties in great condition.

6. Citroën Ami 8 Service Van

These days, a Citroën Ami is a two-person ‘electric quadricycle’, designed for short hops around town when you don’t want to cycle or take the tube. It’s either the future of urban transport or “the world’s most complicated umbrella”, depending on who you believe.

But did you know that it’s named after a French classic? The Citroën Ami series was manufactured in France between 1961 and 1978 and had two generations: the Ami 6 and the Ami 8, both of which had a van version.

While the Ami 6 Service Van became a common sight in France, it wasn’t until 1969 and the launch of the Ami 8 Service Van that it made its mark in the UK, too.

It was a stylish van, perfect for businesses who wanted a classy look and a somewhat luxurious feel. The specification included a steering column lock and a grille blanking plate, and it was the first Citroën A series to have front inboard disc brakes.

And it didn’t just offer good looks and advanced specs: it was also speedy with low running costs, making it a great option for businesses who needed to transport light loads rapidly over long distances.

Sadly, it was phased out within a decade, after around 26,000 had been produced. If you get your hands on one, do contact Lancaster to arrange your classic car insurance.

7. Landrover Series III Pick-up

So far, we’ve looked at road vehicles. But what if you need your classic pick-up truck to take you off the beaten track? Enter the Landrover!

This great British workhorse scarcely needs any introduction. It’s famed for its ability to handle off-road terrain thanks to its four-wheel drive. It’s also renowned for its sturdy build quality, with many older models still going strong today – despite the battering they take when driven off-road.

We’ve chosen a Series III as our top pick-up, though really, you’re spoilt for choice. Produced between 1971 and 1985, most models have 2.25 litre petrol or diesel engines.

The High Capacity Pick Up is built on a 109-inch chassis with heavy-duty suspension and offers 25% more cubic capacity than the standard Landrover pick-up. So, if ruggedness, off-road ability and space are what you look for in your classic pick-up, then this model should be at the top of your list.

8. Dodge Li’l Red Express

For a great, classic pick-up, you really need to look to the States.

This is where the humble pick-up is seen not just as a utility vehicle, but as an exciting motor. On American highways, you’re perhaps more likely to find surfboards and partygoers in the back of a pick-up than tools and equipment!

There have been countless great pick-ups from Chevrolet and Ford, among other manufacturers, but we’ve chosen this ground-breaking model from Dodge, produced only in 1978 and 1979.

It looks just stunning with its striking red exterior – and its performance is incredible, too. The Li’l Red Express has a 360 cubic inch V8 engine, producing 225 horsepower at 3800 RPM. It’s a muscle truck that was, at the time, the fastest American-made vehicle from 0-100mph.

The downside? It’s a limited edition and only around 7,000 were ever manufactured. Still, we can dream!

Alternatively, the Li’l Red Express is part of the third generation of the Dodge D series, which includes some other very fine – and rather more obtainable – motors.

9. The Ital van and pick-up

In the 1980s, if something went wrong with your phone (landline, of course) or gas, chances are that the engineer would arrive in an Ital van. Your post might well be delivered in one, too.

The Morris Ital van was a hit with utility companies thanks to its low running costs, with just over 175,000 manufactured between 1980 and 1984.

They were essentially Morris Marina vans given a new A-plus engine and a bit of a facelift by Italian designers. L-specification models boasted cigarette lighters, front carpets, and reclining seats – positively luxurious for the van drivers of the day. Unlike many of its competitors, the Morris Ital still had rear-wheel drive.

The Ital van was one of the very last vehicles to be produced under the Morris badge, securing it a place in British motoring history.

10. Volkswagen Caddy Mk 1 van or pickup

Volkswagen makes great vans – in fact, its Transporter model is the bestselling van of all time, shifting 12 million units worldwide over 60 years.

But vintage motoring enthusiasts often favour the smaller Volkswagen Caddy, which is based on another enduring VW classic, the Golf.

Originally launched in the USA under the Rabbit name, the Caddy Mk1 made its European debut in 1982. UK versions usually have 1.6 litre petrol engines, though diesel versions are available.

The Caddy was aimed more at the leisure market than tradespeople, with its pick-up version particularly popular. It lends itself to customisation, and many examples you see today have been modified in some way.

Production of the first generation of the Caddy continued into the 1990s. Today, the Caddy is still going strong, with the fourth generation launched in 2020. Perhaps that will one day be considered a classic, too!

Get a quote from Lancaster today

Whatever classic van or pick-up you choose, we at Lancaster would be delighted to give you a quote for classic car insurance.

We have over 35 years’ experience in arranging insurance for vintage vehicles, including light commercial vans and pick-ups.

Benefits can include EU cover up to 90 days and limited mileage discounts. We also arrange discounts for members of classic vehicle clubs.

If you enjoy exhibiting at rallies and shows, we can arrange cover for your vehicle. And if you’re planning to restore a battered van to its former glory, we can arrange laid-up cover while you carry out the work.

Contact us today for a quote.

Policy benefits, features and discounts offered may very between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Information contained within this article is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.