Highlights
- Manufactured in 1950
- Reportedly garaged for most of the last four decades, with very limited use
- Restoration completed in 2017 to bring the van back to roadworthy condition
- Starter motor and dynamo refurbished as part of the restoration
The Appeal
The Ford E83W Thames Van is one of the most recognisable British commercial vehicles of the post-war era. Produced between 1938 and 1957, these rugged little workhorses were once a ubiquitous sight on Britain's roads, yet survivors in running order are increasingly scarce, making any roadworthy example a noteworthy find.
This particular van was manufactured in 1950 and has led a remarkably sheltered life, reportedly spending most of the last four decades tucked away in a garage with less than 500 miles added to the clock in that time. A partial restoration was begun in the early 1980s, and the work was completed in 2017 when the van was purchased by Gilbert & Stamper Electrical Services for promotional use. With its charming period presence and MOT-exempt status, this Thames Van presents a fine opportunity to acquire a usable piece of post-war British motoring history.
Key Information
- Mileage: 19,781 miles showing (unverified); less than 500 miles reportedly covered in the last 40 years
- Country of registration: United Kingdom
- Technical inspection status: MOT-exempt
- Technical specs: 1,000cc four-cylinder side-valve petrol, three-speed manual
- Paperwork: handbook, V5C and restoration invoices
The Detail
- Restoration completed in 2017, including replacement brakes, refitting of wheel arches, front bumper, number plate, and trafficators
- Some paintwork carried out as part of the restoration; now finished in green with yellow Gilbert & Stamper Electrical Services decals
- Starter motor and dynamo refurbished
- The vendor reports the van is in very good condition for its age, having been garaged for most of the last four decades
- Interior is very basic with only one seat, but reported to be in good condition
- Can be temperamental to start, but is reported to be in working order
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
