What is the greatest overland vehicle ever sold new in the US?

[transporterjr]

While I have never owned a Westy, I know many who have. They are 'unique' in terms of reliability, but parts are everywhere (yes, not so much for the Synchro components) and they are quite capable for light off-road duty. They have all the comforts of home built right in and plenty of space for storage. Would it be my first choice? No, not by a long shot. But look at the number of people who have driven these around the world and I think you can say that they have proven themselves as capable overlanders.

The Westfalias I have seen in "round the world" exploits have been the "Bay window" air cooled busses - 69-78. Not saying a Syncro has not made the trip, but I cannot recall one. Having said that I envy the Syncro from time to time.

I have a 2WD Vanagon Weekender Westfalia - unfortunately, these do not have anywhere near the off road traction of the earlier models -I'm sure the reason for the development of the Syncro model some 7 years into the model cycle. I, and many others, have had the 2WD ones stuck on flat & level wet grass. Anyone who asks me about getting a Vanagon, I reply "Only if it is going to be your hobby". In other words, a lot of time and effort that other people cannot understand.

For one or two people, I say get a pick-up with a topper. Sure, a van is the greatest format for a small camper, but the topper equipped pick-up is not far behind. I hope to get one of those soon. I'll still keep the VW, but if I am going to venture into the "outback" of Canada, I can see me taking the Toyota pick-up instead.

YET - why do I still think of an 80 series, 100 series, or my favorite, a G-Wagen, when I think overland vehicle? Easier to see out of and maneuver - perhaps? Is it just looks? A G-Wagen with an Autohome roof top camper, looks like it just plain rocks!

 

[Clutch]

I like everyone's idea's. It is based more on what you use the vehicle for. For me there is not just one.

yep, totally agree...we have a 3 four wheeled vehicles and a couple few 2 wheeled vehicles. Each has their purpose.

Have thought of getting a fullsize van for a bit, I just don't want to spend the money on something that is going to sit mostly (even if gets used 1 or 2 times a week, it is still sitting mostly)...heck I barely use my VW Westy,

I think I rub on it to make it shiny more than I drive it.

 

[jim65wagon]

I think I rub on it to make it shiny more than I drive it.

View attachment 144037

Careful there, you'll go blind.....

YET - why do I still think of an 80 series, 100 series, or my favorite, a G-Wagen, when I think overland vehicle? Easier to see out of and maneuver - perhaps? Is it just looks? A G-Wagen with an Autohome roof top camper, looks like it just plain rocks!

......that's mostly imagery related. This site has some fantastic images, and most people are just enamored with SUV's, therefore that's the most frequent image you get to see. If Mr. Brady had stuck with the Tacoma, or maybe grew up into a Tundra, the masses would have followed his lead and you're Iconic Image would be a pickup truck. Hmmm.....maybe maybe in an alternate Overland Universe my truck would be cool......

 

[Clutch]

.....that's mostly imagery related. This site has some fantastic images, and most people are just enamored with SUV's, therefore that's the most frequent image you get to see. If Mr. Brady had stuck with the Tacoma, or maybe grew up into a Tundra, the masses would have followed his lead and you're Iconic Image would be a pickup truck. Hmmm.....maybe maybe in an alternate Overland Universe my truck would be cool......

Perhaps because the Euros really don't have pickups is why the SUV is more popular, Overlanding was started there long before it started here...(quite literally)

I grew up reading Four Wheeler magazine. sure the Wescotts started in a Landy, but they had F-Series trucks in the stable longer.

Maybe the F-Series is the Greatest Overland Vehicle ever sold in the USA...

http://turtleexpedition.com/

 

[njtacoma]

Kermit
x2

 

[charlieaarons]

I'll of course have to put in a vote for the U500. It has by far the greatest GVM (for a camper), also CTIS.

Charlie

 

[toymaster]

Maybe the F-Series is the Greatest Overland Vehicle ever sold in the USA...

We finally agree on something

 

[Scott Brady]

Charlie,

The U500 is a strong contender, especially is travels are relatively restricted to primary routes and open terrain. When I purchased the EarthRoamer XVJP, you have no idea how close I was to a U500 with custom camper. In the end, I didn't want to be restricted in the routes I could take. The argument on both sides is compelling.
Pro: Exceptional capability and performance for open terrain, comforts of a camper
Con: Limited movement in Jungles, woodlands and older cities.

Kermit,

It is safe to say that the F350 with a 7.3L Diesel is the best overland vehicle ever made in the USA. Gary and Monika's travels certainly inspired an entire generation to explore - I know they did me.

 

[NorthernWoodsman]

Maybe the F-Series is the Greatest Overland Vehicle ever sold in the USA...

View attachment 144056

x3...It was definitely the Westcotts and, in a world before the internet, articles in magazines about these Turtle Expedition Ford's that set my mind to daydreaming about getting out in the world traveling and exploring.

 

[David Harris]

Perhaps because the Euros really don't have pickups is why the SUV is more popular, Overlanding was started there long before it started here...(quite literally)

I grew up reading Four Wheeling magazine. sure the Wescotts started in a Landy, but they had F-Series trucks in the stable longer.

Maybe the F-Series is the Greatest Overland Vehicle ever sold in the USA...

http://turtleexpedition.com/

View attachment 144056

Don't forget that Turtle II was a Chevrolet truck. That was their first pickup.

 

[4D55 Performance]

It's hard to argue for a vehicle being the best overlanding vehicle ever sold new when it has been heavily modified by the aftermarket manufacturer before it is even sold to a consumer. I do understand you can get a hold of these vehicles, but they are not available from the dealer. Vehicles like the Unimog, Earthroamer, Sportsmobile, Brute/AEV have never been sold as new vehicles through a dealer network. If Jeep made the Brute then it should qualify, but they don't. In my opinion for it to be in the running, a vehicle should be listed in NADA. In reality a vehicles like the Earthroamer and Sportmobile are closer to house than they are a vehicle because they can be purchased as a second mortgage. Just my $.02

 

[J-man]

First off...lets keep it toyota, cause we all know nothing compares to their reliability, especially when ur in the middle of nowhereland, and if you do end up needing something....u can get it in almost any country. Id have to say the combo of interior space + power + bed space= my 06 tundra 4x4 v8, quickly followed by my 03 100 series cruiser with an offroad trailer. Only thing that would make them better would be long range fuel tanks...like a solid 40 gallons or so cause i hate having to carry 5 gal tanks around.

1. 1st gen tundras dbl cab (specifically the 05/06 for power)
2. 100 series cruisers (03 +)
3. 96-04 tacomas (ex cab or dbl cab)
4. 96-02 4runners (99 & 2000 were best years)

 

[TangoBlue]

I'm surprised this one hasn't been brought up yet. Born of war and in production to the civilian market from 1946 to 1971 (the last 3 years were for export production), the Dodge Power Wagon has served on nearly every continent and a variety of no-kidding expeditions.

Tough as nails and easily maintained and repaired it was marketed by Dodge as the "farm truck." Refurbished as a retromod it's pretty sweet with modern running gear, like the one I took a picture of in Wyoming in 2011, above.

In its original form it would be a little tough for extended travel these days but I think you can make a case of it being one of the greatest overland vehicle ever sold new in the US.

 

[sourdough]

Willys wagon

 

[Clutch]

Don't forget that Turtle II was a Chevrolet truck. That was their first pickup.

Those old Chevy's were great too, my grand father had one of those, had that thing for years and years.

Kermit,

It is safe to say that the F350 with a 7.3L Diesel is the best overland vehicle ever made in the USA. Gary and Monika's travels certainly inspired an entire generation to explore - I know they did me.

Reading about their trip to Russia..in the winter no less, just wowed me. Having to leave the vehicle running 24/7 so it wouldn't freeze up, that and when they came to a stop they had to move their vehicle a couple times before it came to a final resting place for the night, so the tires wouldn't freeze to the ground. Now that is cold!

x3...It was definitely the Westcotts and, in a world before the internet, articles in magazines about these Turtle Expedition Ford's that set my mind to daydreaming about getting out in the world traveling and exploring.

Back when most people wanted to see how many KC lights, and Rancho shocks one could bolt to a pickup with 44" Ground Hawgs

The little side article in the bowels of Four Wheeler magazine was refreshing, and intriguing.