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1974 Dodge Sportsman Royal Passenger Van
Dodge B-Series Sportsman (Royal trim)
1971-1978 (First generation, specifically identified as a 1974 model based on the grille and badging) · Passenger Van
Rarity Score
6/10 - Uncommon. While mass-produced, most have succumbed to rust or have been crushed; finding original 'window vans' in identifiable condition is becoming difficult.
Spot Difficulty
8/10. Rarely seen on the road; primarily found in rural salvage yards, car shows (if customized), or long-term storage in the Pacific Northwest or Southwest US.
Engine & Performance
Engine: Likely 318 cu in (5.2L) or 360 cu in (5.9L) LA-series V8. 318 produced approx 150-160 hp; 360 produced approx 180-200 hp.
Transmission & Drivetrain: 3-speed A727 LoadFlite or A904 TorqueFlite automatic; Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Performance: 0-60 mph in approx 12-14 seconds; Top speed 90-95 mph; Fuel economy ~10-12 MPG; Curb weight approx 4,500-5,000 lbs.
Exterior
Forest Green paint with heavy surface rust and patina. High-top passenger body with 'Sportsman' and 'Royal' badging. Chrome bumpers, quad-headlight style grille (typical of mid-70s), and aftermarket running boards. The hood is ajar and misaligned.
Interior Features
High-back vinyl or cloth bucket seats up front with multiple rows of bench seating. Woodgrain dashboard accents typical of the Royal trim. Basic HVAC controls and Chrysler's trademark dashboard-mounted gear selector.
Condition Assessment
Poor. The vehicle is a non-running project/parts car currently sitting in a field or salvage yard.
Condition Issues: Heavy surface rust on hood and roof, shattered/missing side windows, dry-rotted tires, likely seized engine from long-term exposure, interior mold, and compromised weather stripping.
Estimated Mileage: 120,000 - 180,000 miles (Odometer likely 5-digit and rolled over)
Historical Significance
The Dodge B-Series was a pioneer of the 'forward-control' van design which maximized interior space. It became the foundation for the 1970s 'Van Life' subculture and was the most popular chassis for motorhome conversions of that era.
Notable Features
Distinctive mid-70s Dodge 'Royal' trim level which included more chrome and interior amenities; wrap-around rear windows; period-correct running boards.
Production Numbers
Tens of thousands produced annually, but survivor rates for the 1974 Sportsman Royal trim are low (estimated <2,000 remaining on road).
Valuation
Estimated Market Value: $800 - $1,500 (As-is/Parts), $15,000 - $25,000 (Fully restored/Customised)
Auction Estimate: $500 - $1,200 (Project state at local salvage/estate auction)
Maintenance Recommendations
Complete engine overhaul, fuel system replacement (lines, tank, carb rebuild), full brake system replacement, and extensive rust remediation/bodywork.
Fun Facts
The Dodge B-Series featured a 'short-nose' design that allowed for a smaller turning radius than its Ford or Chevy competitors. Many of these vans were used as the basis for the iconic 'Mystery Machine' replicas. In 1974, Dodge offered a 'Factory Custom' version called the Street Van to capitalize on the vanning craze.
Identified on: 6/13/2026
This AI-generated identification is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional evaluation. We assume no liability for decisions made based on this information.Read full disclaimer