During the pandemic, overlanding boomed in popularity as people switched international travel for adventures closer to home. Subsequently, demand for used vehicles skyrocketed, but with limited availability, sellers exploited the willingness of buyers to spend over the odds. These price hikes have remained in place for the past couple of years, leaving many of us wondering whether they’ll ever normalize.
Fortunately, there’s evidence to suggest prices are becoming more reasonable in 2022, with good value options such as this $49,500 AEV Brute and a $70,000 OBO Overland Ready Troopy. These vehicles aren’t inexpensive, but they’re reasonably priced considering the specifications. I’d bet that during the pandemic, both of these vehicles would’ve been $20-$30,000 more.
Today’s 1999 Ford E-450, featuring a Ujoint Offroad 4×4 conversion, premium modifications, a camper interior, and a super low-mileage 7.3-liter Power Stroke, is priced at $65,000 OBO. This is not a budget option but great value for a go-anywhere, four-season, rolling home.
From the Seller:
“I have a 1999 E-450 7.3-liter ambulance for sale with approximately 57,000 miles on it. It was our local backup service ambulance that we purchased from the department. We are based in the Chicago area, and have taken it all over, and it has been nothing but fantastic. We built this rig to be the ultimate sportsman vehicle, and it has succeeded in every facet. All the mechanical work was done at Attitude Performance in Arlington Heights, Illinois, [the] wrap was done at X-treme Graphics in Lombard, and audio was carried out by Showtime Audio in Chicago.”
1999 Ford E-450 7.3-liter Ambulance with U-Joint Conversion
The E-450 is fitted with the legendary 7.3-liter Power Stroke motor, which produces 215 horsepower and 425 pound-feet of torque. This diesel engine is not especially powerful (although many owners uprate them) nor economical, but they’re exceptionally long-lived, with some well-maintained examples exceeding a million miles.
Established in 2007, Ujoint Offroad specializes in 4WD conversions for Ford E-Series vans. Their founder explains, “We’ve been creating 4×4 vans for over 13 years and continue to develop new products to make Ford 4WD van conversions more affordable and accessible.” Their first conversion kit was created in 2007 using the 99-04 F-Series axles but has continued to evolve with new products focused on improved quality, durability, and performance.
Distinguishing Features
- Ujoint Offroad 4×4 conversion
- Warn winch
- KC Hilites and Rigid Industries lighting
- Ujoint Offroad aluminum front bumper
- Hypermax Maxchip and 4.56 gears
- Zip Dee awning
- Dick Cepek Extreme Country tires
This 1999 Ford E-450 7.3-liter Ambulance with a u-joint conversion is listed for $65,000 OBO and is currently located in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
Our No Compromise Clause: We carefully screen all contributors to ensure they are independent and impartial. We never have and never will accept advertorial, and we do not allow advertising to influence our product or destination reviews.
