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The Quintessential Workhorse: The 1973 Dodge B100 Van

The year 1973 marked the era of bell-bottoms, rock 'n' roll, and the rise of the quintessential American workhorse: the Dodge B100 Van. Straight from the heart of Detroit's automotive prowess, this vehicle emerged as a symbol of utility and freedom. The B100 Van was not just a mode of transportation; it was a canvas for businesses, families, and custom van enthusiasts alike. With its robust build and versatile nature, the Dodge B100 became an iconic figure on the highways and in the counterculture movement of the 1970s.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1973 Dodge B100 Van boasted a boxy yet functional design, with a bold grille and round headlights that became a familiar sight on American roads. The interior was a testament to simplicity and practicality, with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Technological features were modest by today's standards, but for its time, the B100 offered what was necessary for a comfortable drive without unnecessary frills. Color options ranged from the classic white, favored by commercial fleets, to more vibrant hues that appealed to the era's taste for personal expression. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the windowless cargo van, which provided a blank slate for customization and became synonymous with the vanning culture of the 70s.

Historical Significance

The Dodge B100 Van's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It set a benchmark for utility vehicles, balancing size and maneuverability in a way that made it indispensable for small businesses and tradespeople. Its spacious interior and reliable performance solidified its place in the commercial vehicle segment. Moreover, its adoption by van enthusiasts helped spawn a customization subculture that endures to this day.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1973 Dodge B100 Van was powered by a range of engines, with the most common being a dependable inline-six or a more powerful V8 option. While top speed and acceleration were not headline-grabbing figures, they were more than adequate for the van's intended purposes. On the road, the B100 handled with predictability and poise, absorbing bumps with ease and maintaining composure in windy conditions. Drivers could expect a visceral experience: the rumble of the engine, the commanding view of the road, and a sense of solidity that modern vehicles often lack.

Ownership Experience

The B100 Van served many roles—from a reliable daily driver to a show car canvas for custom van enthusiasts, and occasionally even as a racing platform for those who dared. Its maintenance and reliability were hallmarks of Dodge's engineering, making it an accessible vehicle for the average owner to repair and keep running. The straightforward mechanicals meant that parts were readily available and affordable.

Fun Facts

This van has seen its fair share of interesting trivia over the years. While not known for breaking speed records, it has held its own in terms of sales and endurance within its class. Celebrity ownerships have occasionally surfaced, adding to its cool factor. Despite facing criticisms for its utilitarian comfort levels and fuel efficiency by modern standards, it remains a beloved piece of Americana.

Collector's Information

As for collectors, the 1973 Dodge B100 Van holds a special place in the hearts of van enthusiasts and classic vehicle collectors alike. While production numbers were substantial, finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. The value range for collectors can vary significantly based on condition, originality, and customization, with well-preserved examples fetching higher prices. As a rough estimate, prices can range from a few thousand dollars for a project vehicle to upwards of $20,000 or more for a fully restored or custom example.

Conclusion

The 1973 Dodge B100 Van stands as a testament to an era when vehicles were more than just transportation; they were an extension of one's lifestyle and personality. Its legacy is evident in its continued popularity among collectors and enthusiasts who cherish its simplicity, reliability, and endless potential for personalization. As we look back on this classic workhorse, we're reminded of its undeniable contribution to automotive culture—a true icon of its time.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Rear cargo door seal. Left-hand side-LM 123-VARear cargo door seal. Left-hand side. Fits '71-'77 Dodge B-Series vans (B100/B200/B300) and '74-'77 Plymouth PB-Series vans (PB100/PB200/PB300). [Note: Do not confuse this seal with the SIDE cargo door seals LM 123-VC.] Replaces OEM# 2956359. Each.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Rear cargo door seal. Right-hand side-LM 123-VBRear cargo door seal. Right-hand side. Fits '71-'77 Dodge B-Series vans (B100/B200/B300) and '74-'77 Plymouth PB-Series vans (PB100/PB200/PB300). Replaces OEM# 2956358. Each.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Side cargo door seal. Left-hand seal-LM 123-VCSide cargo door seal. Left-hand seal. Fits '71-'77 Dodge B-Series vans (B100/B200/B300) and '74-'77 Plymouth PB-Series vans (PB100/PB200/PB300). [Note: Do not confuse this seal with the REAR cargo door seals LM 123-VA.] Replaces OEM# 2956357. Each.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Side cargo door seal. Right-hand seal-LM 123-VDSide cargo door seal. Right-hand seal. Fits '71-'77 Dodge B-Series vans (B100/B200/B300) and '74-'77 Plymouth PB-Series vans (PB100/PB200/PB300).

1973 Dodge B100 Van Drivers Side (left) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only-LM 123-VLDrivers Side (left) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only. Each

1973 Dodge B100 Van Passenger Side (right) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only-LM 123-VRPassenger Side (right) Door Seal. Fits full size vans only. Each

1973 Dodge B100 Van Windshield and rear glass lock-strip. Fits Many '57-'93 Mopars. Each.-LS 2-AWindshield and rear glass lock-strip. Fits Many '57-'93 Mopars. Each.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Lockstrip Seal, 54-93 Mopar Full Size Truck, Van & SUV, Chromed Plastic Type-LS 2-VLockstrip Seal, 54-93 Mopar Full Size Truck, Van & SUV, Chromed Plastic Type, Each. Works with Metro p/n VWS 2706.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Chrome Windshield Lockstrip-LS 3-CThis chrome lockstrip insert's into the weatherstrip to lock in the glass. Includes center cover clip. It's sold as a single piece to do one application.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Windshield seal, '71-'93 Dodge/Plymouth B/PB series vans-VWS 2706Windshield seal, '71-'93 Dodge/Plymouth B/PB series vans, with groove for lockstrip, each.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Window Sweeper Kit-WC 4300-01Window Sweeper Kit. Fits '71-'79 Dodge B-series and '74-'79 Plymouth PB-series full size vans. 4-piece kit includes both left-side and right-side inner and outer sweepers. Set. R&L.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Glass Run Window Channels-WC 4300-02Glass Run Window Channels. Fits '71-'79 Dodge B-series and '74-'79 Plymouth PB-series full size vans. 4-piece kit includes both left-side and right-side front upper and division bar glass run window channels. Set.

1973 Dodge B100 Van Window Sweepers and Glass Run Window Channels-WC 4300-03Window Sweepers and Glass Run Window Channels. Fits '71-'79 Dodge B-series and '74-'79 Plymouth PB-series full size vans. 8-piece kit includes both left-side and right-side inner and outer window sweepers and front upper and division bar glass run window channels. Combines WC 4300-01 and WC 4300-02. Set. R&L.