Description
Available in France: a magnificent 1985 American van ready to hit the road for summer 2026 — the 1985 Chevy G20 Explorer, imported from Kansas, already in France, already in classic car registration, with its “Flex Fuel” E85 / Ethanol conversion and its untouched original Explorer interior. Not a recent diesel wondering where it’ll still be allowed to drive in two years. At 41 years old, this G20 is entering its prime season. It’s exactly the van profile sought when prepping a summer: a robust American V8 for pleasure, a fuel budget that won’t limit use, an administrative status that simplifies travel, and availability to depart this year. The E85 conversion changes what you can do with an American V8 on a daily basis. Based on an indicative 16 € per 100 km on E85, this G20 V8 costs less to run than a VW T5 diesel averaging 8 L/ 100 with diesel at €2. 20 per litre, i. e. about €17. 60 per 100 km. In other words: the pleasure of a genuine American V8, with fuel costs that are comparable or even lower than a modern diesel van. And where a recent diesel sees its operating field shrink with increasingly tight low-emission zones, this 1985 G20 benefits from classic vehicle registration, with easier access in most French cities. Not all G20s are equal. Across 1971–1996, multiple vintages, several engine configurations and various levels of fit-out existed. This US van combines the most sought-after combination today by enthusiasts. The 1985 model year corresponds to the classic square silhouette, the look that visually defines the American 80s van in the collective imagination. It’s the most prized phase of the series. The Explorer conversion denotes the top of the line for period fit-out: velour upholstery, wood panelling, rotating captain’s chairs, a bed-convertible bench, matching curtains, integrated storage modules. Everything is original, nothing redone, the whole unit having the coherent patina of a preserved vehicle. The 305 cubic inch (5. 0L) V8 is the best-balanced powertrain in the G-Series range. Smooth, reliable, easy to maintain, mechanically proven, well sized for the van’s weight. Spare parts always available, mechanics able to work anywhere. The TH350 automatic transmission is GM’s most robust and easiest to service. The long 3. 08 rear axle promotes highway cruising and fuel economy, which you can feel directly in the cited E85 cost of use. Vehicle’s actual condition: Original Tan paint, not repainted, preserved with its coherent patina. Original brown velour interior, not redone. Chassis and sills sound, no worrying corrosion observed at inspection. Clean cold start, no smoke. No hot-running, no odd noises, sound handling at all speeds. Recent maintenance: new radiator, new fuel pump, new exhaust with a discreet warm tone. The van has been mainly used for camping and travel since 1990 and stored sheltered between trips, which explains the overall condition. On the E85 conversion: homologated installation, compatible with cruising and road trips for which this van is designed. Technical specifications: Engine: V8 5. 0L / 305 ci (4, 998 cm³), petrol converted to E85 Transmission: 3-speed TH350 Rear axle: 3. 08 (long axle) Fuel tank: 33 gallons (125 L) Power steering Front air conditioning Full instrumentation Original Tan paint, not repainted Period Rally Wheels Alloy wheels Tinted glass Roof bars with rear ladder Front and rear chrome trim in very good condition Sills and sills are solid Period Explorer interior: Original brown velour upholstery 7 seats with belts Front and rear swivel seats Bed-convertible bench Folding integrated table Woodwork, cupboards and storage modules specific to Explorer Coordinated curtains Upholstered door panels Recent maintenance: new radiator, new fuel pump, new exhaust … This G20 targets three profiles. First, American vehicle enthusiasts who want a preserved, period-accurate van rather than a project to finish. Second, vanlife fans who have toured the restored VW combi and the Mercedes Marco Polo and are seeking a more distinctive personality for family or couple road trips. Third, buyers who wanted a newer diesel van for this summer and discover that with the same or lower budget, a well-chosen classic offers more character, more competitive running costs and a calmer administrative status over time. Seven belted seats, bed-settee, smooth V8, air conditioning, rolling 80s lounge ambiance: the van for long weekends, spontaneous getaways, rallies…
