Vintage vehicles have always been in demand, whether in the automotive world or, more recently, in the leisure industry, with VW Combis, for example, reaching sky-high prices: we’re talking over €100,000 for some models…

And precisely, if you’re torn between buying a vintage van or a vintage motorhome, this article aims to compare these two types of vehicles by highlighting their specific features.
To help you choose the ideal vehicle, we’ll focus on the following points:
- Comfort: The motorhome offers more space and amenities.
- Maneuverability: The van is easier to drive and can park anywhere.
- Versatility: The van can double as an everyday vehicle—driving a Combi daily is pretty cool, isn’t it? 😎
- Key considerations: These depend on your intended use, number of passengers, and budget.
- Traveler type: Both vehicles embody freedom and adventure—do you prefer wild spots or campgrounds?
So, in this article, we’ll dive into the choice between a vintage van and a vintage motorhome! Is it the right choice for everyone? Not necessarily, but each option has its pros and cons. To get a first impression, you might consider renting a vehicle through an agency.

Comfort and space: the strengths of a vintage motorhome
When it comes to comfort, a vintage motorhome clearly takes the lead. With its generous interior space, it offers a true mobile haven. The ability to move around freely inside is a significant advantage!
The benefits of a vintage motorhome in terms of comfort are numerous:
- More storage for your belongings: While traveling light is often ideal, the extra storage lets you bring more without strict limitations—and fewer Tetris sessions every time you need something.
- An integrated shower and toilet: Let’s face it, being able to shower inside your vehicle is far more comfortable than braving the cold outdoors.
- A more developed kitchen space: With proper countertops, storage, and larger reserves, culinary enthusiasts will feel right at home.
- The ability to move around the cabin even while driving: Feeling peckish? Just grab a snack from the fridge (though, of course, the driver should stay seated at all times! 😅).

But this comfort comes at a cost. Here’s the downside: a vintage motorhome is generally bulkier and less maneuverable than its cousin, the van. If you’re planning to venture onto narrow roads or park in cities, it can quickly become a headache. We recommend checking out our article on how to prepare for a motorhome road trip for more tips.
On the other hand, the vintage van, while more spartan, has its own strengths. Its limited space encourages traveling light, which can be a plus for minimalism enthusiasts. For us, though, that’s not the case—we tend to travel quite heavily. Feel free to explore our article on our motorhome essentials to see what we pack.

Maneuverability and versatility: the strengths of a vintage van
While the vintage motorhome shines in terms of comfort, the vintage van stands out for its maneuverability and versatility. During our travels, we’ve certainly cursed our motorhome when navigating narrow streets or trying to park in tight spaces!
It’s also worth mentioning: motorhomes are often less welcome in certain areas, with height barriers and restricted parking spaces being common obstacles. Keep this in mind!
The versatility of a vintage van is another significant advantage. It can easily double as your primary vehicle for daily use while transforming into a leisure vehicle for the weekend. You can take your van grocery shopping or drop the kids off at school—something much harder to imagine with a motorhome.
However, this maneuverability comes at a price: the interior space is more limited. This means you’ll need to compromise on comfort and equipment. That said, this simplicity can also bring you closer to the essentials during your travels—a choice that some might find particularly rewarding.
So, to summarize:
Criteria | Vintage Van | Vintage Motorhome |
---|---|---|
Ease of driving in cities | Excellent | Average |
Handling on narrow roads | Very good | Limited |
Ease of parking | Good | Difficult |
Daily use | Possible | Challenging |

Choosing the right vehicle: key factors to consider
Choosing between a vintage van and a vintage motorhome isn’t just about aesthetic preference. Many factors come into play to ensure you select the vehicle that best suits your travel style. Here are the main criteria to keep in mind:
- Planned use: Are you planning occasional trips or a nomadic lifestyle? For short weekend getaways, a van might suffice. But for life on the road—especially with children—a motorhome may be a better fit.
- Number of passengers: How many people will be traveling? A couple might be comfortable in a van, while a larger family will likely need the extra space of a motorhome.
- Required amenities: Make a list of your must-haves. Fixed toilets, an indoor shower, a spacious kitchen—if your needs are minimal, a van might be more suitable.
- Budget: Don’t forget to account for not just the purchase price but also maintenance costs, which can vary significantly between a van and a motorhome. With older vehicles, there’s often something that needs fixing, so plan for these expenses.
Since every vehicle is outfitted differently, make sure your essentials align with your choice:
- A comfortable convertible bed or a fixed bed?
- A functional or minimalist kitchen area?
- Cleverly designed storage spaces?
- Toilets—fixed or portable, depending on your preference?
Finally, whatever your decision, be sure to perform a thorough inspection before purchasing. Check the overall condition of the vehicle, the electrical systems, plumbing, and more.erie, le gaz, et n’hésitez pas à faire un essai routier. Un véhicule vintage demande souvent plus d’attention et d’entretien qu’un modèle récent, mais c’est aussi ce qui fait tout son charme !
Adventure awaits, no matter your choice
In the end, whether you choose a vintage van or a vintage motorhome, the most important thing is selecting the vehicle that best suits your travel style. Both options have their pros and cons, but either will provide unforgettable moments on the road.
Remember, choosing a vintage vehicle—be it a van or a motorhome—is also about embracing a certain mindset. It’s a decision for freedom, adventure, and sometimes a little unpredictability! So, happy travels!