This Old-School and Rad Camper is What Toyota Vanlife Dreams are Made Of

Today, the world of camper vans often consists of the usual suspects from Volkswagen, Ram and Ford. Which is why whenever one from Toyota pops up, they tend to immediately catch the attention and pique the interests of vanlife and camping enthusiasts alike. Including us here at the GP Motoring desk.

Enter this used, but gorgeously well-maintained 1994 Toyota HiAce. It hails in from the period when the model arguably reached its peak. This example recently surfaced on FourbieExchange, a CarsAndBids-like online marketplace for used and built off-roading rigs.

And if you’re familiar with the space, then you’ll know the terms “Toyota,” “camper van,” and “90s-era” means it’s something truly special.

Back when Toyota went California with its iconic van

FourbieExchange

The model in the limelight is specifically a Toyota HiAce Grand Cabin, or basically the Japanese automaker’s sliding-door flagship. Toyota still uses the moniker today for its latest HiAce generation. The Grand Cabin is the largest and one of the most luxurious variants of the iconic MPV.

But more specifically, Toyota kitted this version from the factory as a versatile camper van. All in a likely bid to sway Volkswagen Transporter California buyers. Though, despite not having a factory-equipped pop-up roof tent, this HiAce is still just about as grand as they come.

FourbieExchange

It obviously starts life and looks like a normal mid-’90s HiAce 4WD Grand Cabin. But once the rear door slides open, it reveals a fully-kitted interior that would make even the most ardent VW Transporter fan intrigued.

In addition to the perfectly ’90s-era maroon-on-grey cloth interior, one will find flexible seating for up to five passengers. But said seating can also breakdown into an entirely flat sleeping surface for up to several people.

FourbieExchange

Despite being over 30 years old, this HiAce is also still just as well equipped to fit in. Including privacy dividers and window shades, compact and compartmentalized storage cabinets, an integrated minifridge, an onboard high-voltage electrical system and even a hot potable water system.

But the best part: Toyota converted the entire rear third of the van into a standalone bathing area, complete with a running sink and shower system. Altogether, it makes anyone wonder why anyone would need anything else.

Road trip ready for that vintage #vanlife

1994 Toyota HiAce Grand Cabin Camper Van

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This particular example started life as a Japanese Domestic Model and was imported under the 25-year rule. Which is clearly seen by its right-hand-drive configuration. It currently resides in California, where the van is up for sale.

According to the listing, the previous owner also fastidiously maintained it, having covered roughly 271,000 kilometers, or roughly the equivalent to 168,400 miles. The PO also notes its naturally-aspirated 2.8-liter diesel inline-four, with a whopping 83 horsepower, received a whole bunch of maintenance.

FourbieExchange

Such service includes a new timing belt and water pump, a new serpentine and tensioner with full set of replacement pullies for all the ancillaries, new gaskets, a completely overhauled cooling and fuel system, and a new alternator.

Other seemingly preventative maintenance items include a bunch of suspension bushing replacements, a new exhaust system, and even a full transmission and four-wheel-drive service. With all the above, it’s about as turnkey as it gets with plenty of life left in it to roam the planet.

And you don’t even have to break the bank to land it in your driveway. With a modest asking price of just under $18,000, this could be one of the easiest and most affordable ways to indulge in the nomadic vanlife.

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