If you are unfamiliar with the term “dajiban“, let us bring you up to speed: the Dodge Ram Van, specifically the 1994-2003 variety that has the looks of the 1994 Dodge Ram, might not appeal to many in the United States, but over in Japan they are a cult vehicle. Japanese motorcycle racers loved the van’s ability to haul a bike around inside with ease, the power of the 318 (remember, this is the land of the kei car) and the fact that the short wheelbase versions are only just a bit longer than a smaller sedan. Not a bad way to go. But racers being racers, at some point somebody fired off a B-van and proceeded to put on a clinic during some downtime, and before long you have built small-block Chryslers, side-pipes, Ferrari brakes and drift brake levers.
Now, the truth for the Japanese culture is that the size of the van is what really spiked interest. That’s why you don’t see Ford Econolines built up, for example. Chevrolet Astros are the right size, but they don’t have V8s. So there’s a fleet of Dodge vans in the Far East that will party like none other. It’s a unique deal, but it does have a bit of intrigue to it. Purposeful cargo van that when called upon, can unleash hell? It’s actually kind of inspiring. Which is the reason why I’m looking at this 2001 van with a raised eyebrow. Normally, one photo on an eBay listing would turn me away, but with the promise of more photos coming soon and the offer of a 410ci small-block Chrysler in the deal if you so choose..the thing is practically begging to be completed! Unless the inside is a certified CDC health hazard, what’s to stop you from jumping on this deal?
Already have a 2000 I’m going in a similar direction with. It is the second I’ve had. If I didn’t already have mine, I’d be all over it