In 1985, the minivan was all the rage. Families could get rid of the ancient battlewagon that seated nine in opulent vinyl luxury and instead opt into a front-drive, four-cylinder crate that would shuttle people around in comfort. It was a stylish, trendy decision. So…thirty-five odd years on, how is that trend working out? The minivan went downhill in the 1990s once the sport-utility rose up, and there really hasn’t been much of a change since. Minivans are now disposable. They are underpowered, high-mileage units that usually reek of stale french fries and a bit of kid puke for good measure. They’ve served their purpose…and it’s time to send them on their way.
You’re going to be riding along in a 2005 Chevy Uplander. This was Chevrolet’s last attempt at the minivan market in the United States and was more-or-less an evolution of the original “Dustbuster” vans of the early 1990s. I’ve driven one, effectively it’s an inflated version of a W-body Chevrolet Impala in it’s overall mannerisms. Meaning, that it’s competent enough but lacks any kind of excitement. This particular van was bought for $250 a day before it’s entry into the ring. Why so cheap? Tinworm. Not that anyone was ever going to, but don’t cry for this Chevy’s death.
Thanks to Charles Wickam for the tip!
