Restoring classic vans and converting them into food trucks

The trend of restoring classic vans and transforming them into mobile food businesses, or food trucks, has exploded in popularity in recent years. This movement combines the nostalgia of vintage vehicles with the entrepreneurial spirit of the burgeoning street food scene. Iconic vans like the VW Bus, Citroën HY, Ford Transit, and the aforementioned Peugeot J7 are being rescued from scrapyards and given a new lease on life. These vehicles, once utilitarian workhorses, are now canvases for culinary creativity, their retro charm attracting customers and adding a unique flair to any event. The restoration process is often extensive, involving not only mechanical overhauls but also significant modifications to the interior to accommodate commercial kitchens.

Ultimately, the appeal of these converted classic vans lies in their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while simultaneously providing a modern, functional platform for culinary entrepreneurs. They represent a fusion of old and new, where vintage charm meets contemporary street food culture. These rolling kitchens are not just businesses; they are conversation starters, attracting attention and drawing in customers with their unique character and delicious offerings. As the food truck movement continues to grow, these restored classic vans are sure to remain a prominent and beloved fixture on the culinary landscape.

The Peugeot J7: A Stalwart French Workhorse – The 1978 Vintage

The Peugeot J7, a name synonymous with robust practicality in the world of commercial vehicles, enjoyed a lengthy production run from 1965 to 1980. While often overshadowed by its more famous Citroën HY contemporary, the J7 carved its own niche as a dependable and versatile workhorse, favored by tradesmen, delivery services, and even campervan enthusiasts across Europe. Let’s take a closer look at the 1978 model, a year that saw the J7 near the end of its production cycle, yet still going strong.

A Familiar Face with Practical Design

By 1978, the Peugeot J7’s design had remained largely unchanged since its inception. Its boxy, utilitarian aesthetic was a hallmark of its purpose-built nature. The forward-control layout, with the driver positioned above the front wheels, maximized cargo space and provided excellent visibility. Its sliding side doors, a feature that became standard, offered convenient access to the load area, making it ideal for urban deliveries and various trades.

Under the Hood: Petrol and Diesel Power

The 1978 Peugeot J7 offered a choice of two engines:

• 1.8-liter Petrol: This engine, carried over from earlier models, provided adequate power for most applications. It was a reliable unit, though not particularly fuel-efficient by modern standards.
• 2.3-liter Diesel: This was the more popular choice for commercial use, offering better fuel economy and more torque, making it ideal for hauling heavier loads. The Indenor diesel engines were known for their durability, although they could be quite noisy.

Both engines were mated to a four-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. The J7’s front-wheel-drive configuration was relatively uncommon for commercial vehicles of its time but contributed to its spacious cargo area and lower loading height.

The 1978 J7 in Context

By 1978, the Peugeot J7 was facing increasing competition from newer, more modern vans. However, it still held its own thanks to its proven reliability, robust construction, and readily available parts. It remained a popular choice for those who valued practicality and durability over creature comforts and cutting-edge technology.

Today, the Peugeot J7, including the 1978 model, enjoys a growing following among classic vehicle enthusiasts. Its simple, rugged design and mechanical simplicity make it relatively easy to maintain and restore. Many are being converted into stylish campervans, food trucks, or simply preserved as a testament to a bygone era of commercial vehicle design.

Conclusion

The 1978 Peugeot J7 represents the end of a successful production run. It was a vehicle built to work, and its longevity is a testament to its robust design and engineering. While not as visually iconic as some of its contemporaries, the J7’s practicality and enduring charm continue to win over enthusiasts, ensuring its place as a beloved classic French workhorse. Its legacy continues, not just in restored examples but also in the countless businesses and individuals it served faithfully throughout its working life.