Commer PB 2500 Camper Van (1967-70)

Well, this is something different. This relic of the British Rootes group is a camper van sold under the “Commer” nameplate (short for “Commercial” as the brand was historically focused on…surprise…commercial vehicles)  Commer went out of business in 1979, but this rare Camper van soldiers on with regular trips from Portland to the Coast.

Joe, the current owner, bought it several years back from a woman who’s plans included taking it over the Rocky Mountains. Unfortunately it’s 4,000 pound curb weight and 1725cc 4-cylinder (meant for Rootes’ midsize vehicles) was simply not enough power to get it there.  

Thus it was destined to stay on the West Coast, where Joe takes it over the much less intimidating Coastal Range.  At night.  At 35 miles per hour.

Seen in SE Portland

Its almost the weekend, and what better way to get away than your ‘70’s Winnebago Indian.  Honestly though, if there is one thing I really don’t like it’s campers…I guess I am just prejudiced, I could get by with a tent and sleeping bag-or even just a sleeping bag in the back of my Volvo- but if you have a family a “motor home” (Winnebago coined the term) is a great idea…I guess.  Other than a Revcon or a GMC, this is probably one of the best ever made.  I love the hard angles and spring green accents.  Probably the best thing on 4 wheels to roll out of Iowa.

Seen on the Nike Campus, Beaverton, OR