Clean Carrier: 1974 Dodge B100 Shorty Van – Sold?

December 4, 2023, Update – We confirmed the listing for this “ClassiFIND” expired, so with no replacement found, we’re assuming this ride is “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

One thing we can all agree on is that vans are bought for hauling stuff. Whether cargo, tools, or people, vans typically are ridden hard and put away wet regardless of the use.  Compounding that fact is that 1970s vans in stock condition are now very rare to come across for sale as many fell victim to the customizing craze of the disco era.

Bucking both of those trends is this green 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 “Shorty Van” for sale, first spotted in October 2023 on Craigslist in Struthers, Ohio (Youngstown).  Reported to be a rust-free example sourced from Texas, what’s even more amazing is that other than a vintage 8-Track in-dash stereo and aftermarket door-mounted speakers, this Shorty Van for sale appears to be unmodified.  The 88K original miles and what appears to be its original factory green paint make this Dodge Tradesman van a survivor-quality example.  We agree with the seller’s assessment their van is a blank canvas for the next caretaker to enjoy the van as-is or perhaps make a retro-styled 1970s custom van.

As a second data point, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask is above this guide’s #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $15,500.  Similarly, the downloadable 2023 Old Cars Price Guide Big Book confirms the seller’s ask lands above this guide’s #1 “Excellent appraisal of $14,950.

The 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 van, a classic example of American automotive design and engineering from the 1970s, is an iconic vehicle with a unique blend of practicality and style. This van, part of Dodge’s B-Series, was a popular choice for a wide range of consumers, from small business owners to adventurous families, and even rock bands on tour. Let’s take a closer look at the features and characteristics that made the 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 van a memorable part of automotive history.

The 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 van boasts a distinctive, boxy design that was a hallmark of the era’s utilitarian vehicles. The body featured smooth, clean lines with a generous use of chrome accents, including the bold Dodge emblem on the front grille. The van was offered in a variety of two-tone paint schemes, allowing buyers to add a touch of personal style to their vehicle. It had a solid, dependable look that suggested it was ready for a variety of tasks.

The B100 van had a wheelbase of 109 inches and measured approximately 186 inches in length. It was designed with versatility in mind, offering ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The boxy design allowed for a surprisingly roomy interior that could be customized for various purposes, from carrying passengers to serving as a mobile workshop or camper van.

Under the hood, the 1974 B100 van typically featured a 3.7-liter Slant-6 engine as the standard powerplant, which produced around 100 horsepower. However, buyers had the option to upgrade to the more powerful 5.2-liter V8 engine, offering improved performance and a satisfying V8 growl. While it wasn’t known for blistering speed, the van was reliable and easily handled daily driving or long road trips.

The interior of the B100 was designed for comfort and functionality. The front seats were roomy and comfortable, and the dashboard featured simple, easy-to-read gauges and controls. While not as luxurious as modern minivans, it offered a decent level of comfort for its time. Depending on the trim level and options, the van could be equipped with features like air conditioning, power steering, and an AM/FM radio, adding to the overall driving experience.

One of the key selling points of the 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 van was its versatility. It could be converted into a camper van, a cargo hauler, or a family vehicle, making it a popular choice for a wide range of consumers. Many van enthusiasts enjoyed customizing their B100 vans to suit their specific needs, whether that meant adding extra seats, storage compartments, or even a small kitchenette for road trips.

The 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 van holds a special place in American automotive history. It represents an era when vans were not just vehicles but symbols of freedom, self-expression, and adventure. Over the years, this van has gained a dedicated following among collectors and enthusiasts, who appreciate its unique design, reliable performance, and the nostalgia it carries for those who lived through the 1970s.

In conclusion, the 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 van is a quintessential example of a classic American van. With its distinctive design, spacious interior, and the ability to adapt to various needs, it captured the essence of the 1970s automotive landscape. Whether you needed a reliable workhorse or a vehicle for cross-country journeys, the B100 van was up for the task, earning a lasting place in automotive history and the hearts of enthusiasts.

The Osborn Tramain YouTube Channel provides this vintage 1974 Dodge van commercial:

This green 1974 Dodge B100 Tradesman for sale is the cleanest, most rust-free, and unmodified Shorty Van we’ve come across since we first started GuysWithRides.com.  Not only is this van a very clean survivor, but it is a nicely optioned example featuring a 318 cubic inch V8 mated to an automatic transmission controlled by both power steering and power brakes.

If you are serious about buying this Trades B100 Shorty Van, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad.  When you connect, please mention that you saw their Dodge Tradesman for sale featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

Stock or modify: What would you do with this 1974 Dodge Tradesman B100 shorty van for sale? Please comment below and let us know!