∙Well finished interior fittings, including new sink and fridge
∙Mechanically well maintained
∙Ideal for the summer staycation

The ubiquitous Ford Transit has long been used for camper van conversions. As the best selling light commercial vehicle in Europe for over 50 years, it naturally lends itself as a safe choice for many, thanks to its reliability and ease of maintenance and parts availability. The MK6 version was introduced in 2000 and used many visual cues from the passenger cars, but it's notable feature was the installation of the versatile Duratorq diesel engine.

This example comes with no reserve, so offers a superb opportunity to grab a tastefully kitted two-berth campervan for what could be a potential bargain. It has seen plenty of recent documented mechanical attention and comes ready to explore the open road.

Bought on a whim last year, the idea was to use it for weekend trips to the seaside. A quick check into the vans MOT history suggests that it has been well used for that purpose. The recorded mileage is believed to be correct, it went through two MOTS in 2013 to adjust an incorrect mileage reading. The current owner, in anticipation of using the van, has spent a considerable amount of time and money on getting it in mechanically tip-top condition. However, due to the current situation, the owner simply hasn’t had the opportunity to allow the van to stretch its legs and therefore has not been used for its intended purpose. In addition, the owner is looking to sell the van to free up funds for the restoration of his classic cars.

The Transit comes with recent paperwork and has an MOT until July 2021. The current owner took it to a local trusted mechanic for a once over, which resulted in a considerable amount of mechanical attention as part of their recommendations. This includes a recent full service, comprising new oil, pollen and fuel filters. It has also seen a new alternator plus power steering belts, fan belt, brake caliper and steering rods plus bushes on top of a handful of cosmetic improvements and parts - all in all around £700 worth of work over the last few months. Both the main and leisure batteries have been replaced too.

The driver's cabin has worn the years well, with the trendline seats for three people, all in good condition with no rips and tears observed. All seats have been treated to new covers over the last year. The door cards are good, with small signs of wear to the plastic. The driver's cabin headlining is in good condition, with no damage. The driver's side front well is sporting some black tape which may be a temporary repair.  The mats are in good condition. The dashboard has resisted its years well, with the expected wear and tear for a 15-year-old van but again no evidence of rough or inconsiderate use. It comes fitted with a Pioneer CD/Stereo player. The switches and dials are good, all are said to be functional. The steering wheel has a leather cover, and the gear stick is in line with the general positive condition of the driving cabin.

The van has been converted to a high standard, with the finishing of the living quarters well-furnished enhanced with some tasteful and quality fittings. The main focus is the kitchenette fittings, which includes a new stainless steel sink with electric pump, two-burner gas cooker with a gas bottle, an unused fridge and microwave, there is ample storage room with five possible closets and a three quarter length wardrobe. There is also a 240V hook up and includes a television with the sale of the van. The rear living quarters is also furnished with a two-berth bed, which is made more homely with the inclusion of a carpet and some attractive VW-themed curtains. There are also window blinds with fly screens, for extra privacy. While we’re on the subject of privacy, there is also a portable flush toilet. The overall condition of the wood fittings and cushioning in the camper section is good.

Let’s put aside the estate agent speak, and focus on the physical external condition of the van. The panel work and fit are good, with no issues with the opening and closing of the doors, the side sliding and rear cargo doors open with no effort. The panel gaps are even. Areas around the windows and door frames look good, with no significant signs of dents or scrapes. The engine bay structure is solid, with no signs of structural corrosion. The door frames and underside is good, with no significant corrosion, although the lower section of the van, particularly around the arches and sills shows signs of surface corrosion. They have also been subject to some form of paint blow-over. As a result, there is evidence of overspray in places, but it is mostly confined to lower sections of the van. The paint has flattened in places, but overall the coverage is even. The top half appears to be original paint, with the abstract decals helping to break up the vast plains of metal.

The trim is in generally good order, with some signs of wear and tear but there is plenty of evidence that it has been carefully driven. The plastic trim and bumpers are good, with some signs of age particularly evident on the rear item. The wheels and tyres are good, three Falkens were fitted in 2015, with the other tyre being a very recent item. All have well above the legal tread. The windscreen has a minor chip, which has been treated and will only be flagged up as an advisory. Both the rear and front lights are new and have a recently-fitted new external visor fitted. It also comes with a towbar, fully functioning awning and reversing camera as well as a 12-volt external power cable.

Mechanically the Transit has seen a host of recent maintenance which has ensured that it runs and drives well. On start up the engine fires up with no hesitation, and no excessive smoke was observed after the initial condensation. The 2.2-litre diesel engine ran well, with no immediate signs of knocking or any other unwanted noises. The general engine presentation is clean, with no evidence of oil leakage. Brake and suspension components appear to be in good order, with the owner stating that it drives well with no issues and points out that it doesn't need a camshaft belt as it is chain driven. The exhaust is in good condition with no evidence of leaks.

The Transit has a near-legendary status, yet the model is nowhere as converted as the VW camper van. For fans of self-contained travelling home buyers out there, the Ford is a no-brainer. It offers far more metal for your money and the Duratorq engines have a good reputation if well maintained. Listed with no reserve, this 2007 2-birth high top van offers a decent living specification and evidence of mechanical care, this could be the perfect vehicle for exploring the corners of the country.

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