1980 Ford Transit Autosleeper Camper Van review from UK and Ireland

Not much considering its age. Rust is a constant battle though.

Also the windscreen seal is perished.

Gets a high score for running costs as parts are so cheap and available.

This vehicle is a camper van based on a swb mk2 Transit panel van. Performance and handling arenot so much of an issue. Lucky really because handling is awful and some performance would be nice...

It has the bulletproof Pinto engine, which gets a little smokey in old age, but has no inherrent faults.

The 3 speed autobox is a rare fitment in a Transit and is a waste of time, totally unsuited to the van. 3 ratios is not enough for such a heavy vehicle. Performance is lethargic and economy around the 18 mpg mark.

Great for cheap holidays though, and more importantly this van is fixable easily should it ever go wrong, engine access is excellent and it's all dead basic. Pleasant enough to drive if you are not in a hurry.

Plans are afoot to fit a souped up engine and 5 speed box, and turn it into a '70s style custom van.