I’ve always loved old cars, and I’ve always enjoyed driving. Driving across the country is something I have always wanted to do, and due to some circumstances changing in my life, I now have the opportunity to do it. I’m flying out west to Vancouver,B.C. on Monday and hope to find a car older than 1986 that’s suited for a cross-country trip. There’s three of us going – my father, and father-in-law, who is 6’6”. This being the case, there’s a few details that I must get straightened out. Maybe you can help.
Firstly, I’d like the car to be 30 years old or older. At that age it qualifies for antique plates for occasional use, which are a lot less expensive than regular plates. I’ve set a budget of $3500, which should get a nice car in Vancouver from what I see on Craigslist and Kijiji.
Having a tall father-in-law pretty much means that we will need to get a 4-door sedan or wagon. It’ll have to be a mid-size or full-size car.
Given that we are travelling nearly 7000 KM in an old car, I would probably prefer it to be built by GM, Ford, or Chrysler, as I figure parts should still be readily available should something happen. Something known to be comfortable would be great. Any ideas?
My preference in vehicles is a GM rear drive four-door or wagon, either a B- or G- body, something easy to repair and nice to drive. I’d consider a Panther as well. Any other ideas for something roomy and comfortable? There doesn’t seem to be much else on Craigslist or Kijiji.
The other thing I wonder about is what the most scenic route is from Vancouver east? I’m counting on 10-14 days from Vancouver to Sydney, Nova Scotia. We’re really not on a “vacation” per se – but if there are multiple options from A to B, we’d like to take the most beautiful options.
I appreciate any help. I also plan to post updates of our progress driving across the country!
You won’t find one in Vancouver, but my best cars for a long distance drive would either be my 76 Grand Marquis or my 79 Lincoln. Both are smooth, roomy, and quiet. And parts are readily available. Not that you would need any. Mine have proven themselves to be utterly reliable, even after all these years. Of course I’m a stickler for maintenance. The only thing I would carry as a spare would be the ignition module. Most on the road problems are easily solvable with tape and a screwdriver, but a dead ignition module is not! However, both of mine still run fine on their original ones. But I know eventually they will fail. I feel pretty sure most folks on here are going to steer you towards a 77-85 B- body GM car of some kind, but the above mentioned are what I own and what work for me. I would also not hesitate to do what you have planned in my 74 Impala either come to think of it.
These two, plus the LTD equivalent, were my first thought too.
They’d be nice big comfortable cars for certain! I plan on getting a few extra spare parts to keep us from getting stranded.
I can’t speak to your northern-most route, but, having driven Out West several years ago, we took your southern-most route out (approximately), and the “middle” (northern States) route back. The southern route definitely was the more scenic for us, but we had also planned plenty of time for sightseeing stops along the way. There are things to see on the northern State route, but there are also hours and hours of boring interstate to look at.
I posted a number of CCs while on the trip – here’s the finale: https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/cc-outtake/road-trip-finale-our-trip-car-2005-chrysler-town-country/
We briefly thought of going through the States, but my father-in-law doesn’t have his passport! I’ve never been west of Ottawa (by car, New Hampshire) so I’m even looking forward to seeing the Prairies for the first time. I’ll have a look at your post too, thanks!
I’m a CDN. I’d take the Southern route for sure. While BC and western Alberta are like God’s heaven on earth, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northern Ontario will kill you from boredom. Prairies and forests that are nice the first day but then seem like they will never end. My sister and brother went out last year and my sister called me crying! She couldn’t take it anymore!
In the US there is a little more geographic variety and small towns to break up the scenery. We also skip the interstates. Smaller highways are where the real beauty lies and towns that the interstate forgot look they are right out of the movies. Love it. Really. Skip most of the interstates!!!!
Which route are you the least familiar with? That’s the one I would take. All are going to have some profoundly desolate areas.
You have me looking at the Vancouver CL. Skip the diesel Tempo. How about a one owner R-body Plymouth Gran Fury- with a slant six? This would be my pick. http://victoria.craigslist.ca/cto/5482320462.html
Take your pick on Cadillac’s and if you want an A/G body, you should be set. There are also a few Fox body wagons but I’m not so sure about condition.
Have fun pulling the mountains in a Slant-6 R-Body!
That crossed my mind, also – but you get more time to enjoy the scenery!
Actually I just checked it, that one is on the island anyway. Ferry trips necessary, there and back.
Whoa, there’s a Tempo Diesel?! I gotta get to Vancouver! Wonder if we haul freight up there. Might as well be paid for going, right?
Never mind. Just looked at the Tempo. Way overpriced. Bummer. Maybe $200 for both car and spare engine. Not even remotely worth $1000 for both. I call crack pipe.
I endorse this post. This must happen; and since you’ll have plenty of time to take pics and enjoy the scenery the ensuing writeup will be amazing.
I’m hoping the weather is half-decent, and my plan is to post daily. I want to share it with everyone. I just checked-in to my flight a few minutes ago.
I haven’t been further west by car then New Hampshire, so it’s all new ground for me! I was eyeing up the Gran Fury – it’s a good looking car, and it’s on the list. I like the slant sixes too – I had one in a Coronet. It was not fast, but it got there eventually.
The Tempo would be different enough – but I’d have to fold up my father-in-law twice over to get in.
I’ve read your roadtrip posts with the Galaxie – I have to say that’s a big inspiration for me!
Thank you! The old girl has been relegated to sitting outside until I rip the moldy carpet from it. I’ll get it sometime this summer.
Looking at everything older than ’86 and $3500 and under, there is some good stuff, but nothing as unique as the R-body. Plus, at that price, you can still put tires on it plus giving it the once over and remain under budget. Your father-in-law should have no problem fitting inside.
The slant six will undoubtedly be tedious going through the mountains, but will make up for it on the prairies. And, it sounds like you aren’t in a big hurry anyway, so….
Heading that far west, you’ll appreciate the extra room in that GF.
Wow, good spot on that R-body. The two-tone green is fantastic, and that interior looks clean as a whistle! The slant six won’t be fast, and that ad doesn’t mention A/C (though at this time of year, not a necessity at all). But it’s unique without being exotic.
It doesn’t get too warm out here in Cape Breton, so AC isn’t a big deal. Comfort is probably the biggest thing to me. That and I like it – and I like the look of that Gran Fury. The two-tone green is sharp.
Have you checked Kijiji on the island? You might have better luck there, plenty of CCs there. Plus you get the added bonus of the BC Ferry experience.
There are a few nice cars over there on Kijiji. My dad thinks we’ll lose too much time on the ferry though – how long and how much typically is a trip? We’re used to Marine Atlantic – and it’s big money.
Marc,
Vancouver to either Nanaimo or Victoria is about an hour and a half. The Duke point run takes 2 and lands you south of Nanaimo. Add at least an hour at the terminal to be sure you get on. The BC Ferries website can update you on prices, but a car and 3 passengers runs about $110.00 one way. Walk on adults are 17 or 18 bucks each one way.
Lots of nice old iron on the south Island, it’s a big retirement area.
Hey tiredoldmechanic,
Is there much stuff that isn’t on Kijiji/Craigslist – ie, sitting in a yard with a for sale sign on it? If so we could do a walk-on and rent a car once on the island. I have my heart set on a GM/Ford RWD wagon.
I don’t actually live on the island anymore, so I can’t really say. When I did live in Nanaimo I’d have to say anything I saw in a yard with a for sale sign would be chancy for a cross country drive though. Try autotrader.ca, have a look at the search function to narrow down your choices. Vancouver has many suburbs so try them too.
One thing I’d strongly advise is to do a title/lien search on anything you are looking at buying. It’s a $10.00 fee at any ServiceBC office. I’ve avoided being burned that way twice now.
Good Luck!
Another good website for used cars on the island is usedvictoria.com or naniamo check the specialty section that’s where the old cars are often found. Hope this helps.
$110 one way? For a ferry? Wow, that’s way more expensive than I would have thought. Granted, the only ones I’ve ever taken are the ones that run along the coast of North Carolina (generally from the mainland to a barrier island), and the most expensive of those is $15 per car. Some of the shorter routes are free!
Sounds like much fun , I hope you keep us posted at the trip goes along .
I’ve done exactly this more times than I can remember , always fun .
-Nate
I hope to – that’s my aim. I’ve read this site a lot, and would like to give something back. Do you have any recommendations on routes through the country? I have heard the Okanagan Valley is beautiful.
I normally drive the secondary and tertiary roads because I like to sighsee and I always meet interesting people .
Glacier National Park is not to be missed .
I’m surprised by all these modern cars , I rarely take anything newer than 1969 (my truck) . of course I’m a Mechanic so if it breaks I know special swear words and how to hold my tong ‘ just so ‘ in the corner of my mouth as I’m working by the side of the road….
The main thing is to just _GO_ ~ don’t worry , check the tires and oil a lot , slow down in the ‘ gully washer ‘ rain storms you’ll encounter in the Mid West .
America is a beautiful country and it’s _YOURS_ to enjoy .
-Nate
I went from New Minas to Edmonton in the 80’s in a Chevette…. so I can recommend what not to look for.
I went from Sydney to North Sydney in an Acadian, it was plenty!!
Jeeze ~
Don’t be such whiners .
I’ve driven all over America in old VW’s . mostly clapped out Beetles with 1200 or 1500 single port engines , if you like to travel it’s fun .
I’ve driven my junkyard Metropolitan Nash Convertible from Pasadena to Vancouver Island in Canada and back with SWMBO , also a fun trip .
I’m looking forward to rattling my way across America in my1960 Morris Minor once I retire and re assemble it . (it’s amazing how a car can still be driven with SO MUCH wrong with it ! =8-) )
-Nate
Bring an ignition module, a full set of socket wrenches, and I’d take some V-belts, too. Plus some big cans of oil, coolant, ps fluid, and transmission fluid.
Based on mostly good experience with all three:
First choice: ’75-’76 GM C body 4 door sedan. Room, endless torque, parts anywhere, comfortable seats, excellent climate control, huge trunk, HEI, hardtop experience in all but the Fleetwood, and the Buick and Olds do not seem to be sought after, rare to see them at over $5K for the sedans. The Caddy will cost a bit more in good shape. A clamshell wagon would be cool, too, but harder to find. These also attract the most attention. Where the later cars are still just “old cars” to most, these are beginning to stand out and be seen as classics. If you did break down, my experience is that everyone driving by will try to help you because “that poor guy’s classic car broke down!”. Not so in the later models. That probably also applies to guy ulrich’s big Lincoln recommendation.
Second: ’77-’80 B or C body sedan or wagon with a V8. Not quite the endless torque of the above, and in some cases less trunk space (others more), but better handling, fuel economy, still good climate control, and maybe more parts availability though I’ve not really noticed any difference. ’81 and up have computers and a mess of vaccuum lines.
Third: Box panther sedan or wagon with fuel injection, I think ’86 is your best bet but there was fuel injection as early as ’83 or ’84, I think. In that case I’d be more concerned with checking out the AOD transmission than the ignition module before hitting the road. Newer (not sure it makes a difference at this point other than availability to buy), most fuel efficient, no carb issues.
I’m not necessarily endorsing GM over the Fords and Chryslers…just probably easier to find one and it has to be at least somewhat easier to locate parts in a pinch.
I hadn’t thought of the belts – thanks! I hope to find something that isn’t common here in Nova Scotia anymore – Rust and the crusher claimed most of the older stuff.
There seems to be lots of GM rear-drives, but almost no Panthers. I dunno why that is.
I’d love a wagon, but they seem hard to get. A Volvo would be cool, but my sensible side says no!
For something different, maybe one of the M-Body Chryslers? Not as big of a car, but presumably parts are available on those.
The pre-’84 or so Panthers that had funky carbs didn’t hold up well and are rarely seen. Most I’ve seen are ’86+ with 302s and EFI. So they’d be too new for your criterion.
An 85 Impala/ Caprice with the Vortec 4.3 V6. If the Gran Fury with the slant six found by Jason above is temping this might be the ticket. It was the only full size domestic body on frame that offered FI and a four speed auto paired with a gas six in the time frame you specified. The 130 hp it had was also far better than the earlier 3.8 V6 or the slant 6.
No Chrysler cars other than Imperials until about 1966 have been body on frame since 1960.
B-body Parisienne or 88. Zigzag up to the Yellowhead, Hwy 16, then south-east to Portage La Prairie, MB. Cross the border (skip Emerson crossing south of Winnipeg, busy crossing). Travel east south of the Great Lakes, cross the border into New Brunswick. Don’t forget to stop in Gladstone, pictures at the Happy Rock. If you’re willing to linger, between Neepawa and Gladstone you have the Amish community on Plumas highway and the giant crocus in Arden.
How about a 1979 Buick LeSabre with the 350 V8 and rebuilt at that; comfortable, good high speed touring, and having had several LeSabres I can tell you they are good cars. It’s been on CL for a month so I bet they would take $3000. Here’s the CL list:
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/van/cto/5464941128.html
My father was a Buick man, so I must agree. If you can find it I’d go with mid to late 60s. Also, take the route thru the Canadian Rockies, from Glacier in Montana thru Banff and Jasper parks they are unique in North America. Once you get on the high plains it isn’t that special on any of the routes.
There is a beautiful looking ’67 T Bird, red with black vinyl roof that just came up 15 minutes ago, 4 door. Also in Maple Ridge. Already has collector plates, asking $4500 but maybe they will come down some, especially if you tell them about the CC excursion. The rebuilt 428 engine will want lots of gas, though.
It might not be too bad, but I don’t think I could swing the fuel!
I’ve tried emailing a few times with no success. I like the colour of it too!
The listing has been removed. I figured a deal like that would be quickly snapped up.
Hopefully the attention to the AC isn’t a new compressor and conversion to eco freon, which would be about $1000 to $1500. Working AC on a trip is worth anything to me! (although of course I’ve done lots of road trips without).
I would suggest a good old reliable GM RWD sedan from 77 onward. Something with a smaller V8 for the best gas consumption. You want great passenger comfort, decent fuel economy, reliable and easy to find parts if something breaks.
I’ve driven down east a couple of times from Edmonton. From Vancouver my suggestion is get to highway 97 and head up to Penticton, then Kelowna onto the Trans Canada Highway and on through Revelstoke. Continue east to Golden then on to Lake Louise, Alberta. Take time to enjoy the great scenery during this leg before heading down to Banff. Soak in the hot springs, then travel on to Canmore for more great scenery then carry on to Calgary.
Then next leg through the prairies to Regina and Winnipeg is rather boring until you get to Thunder Bay. So either head south to the US at Thunder Bay or better yet go south from Winnipeg as you can make better time on US interstate highways which will quickly get you to Chicago and points east.
If you have never been to southern Ontario, cross the border at Detroit/Windsor but perhaps take in the Ford Museum first in Dearborn. After crossing into Windsor carry on through your choice of highway in southern Ontario through Toronto and further east to Montreal, and Quebec City. This is the time you need to slow down and enjoy your time and the various points of interest in this part of Canada and through the Martimes. There is so much to see out there.
If you are driving back, come back through the northeastern US states like Main, Vermont, really pretty out there. Have a safe trip!
As a native Mainer, I can vouch for the beauty of passing through New England. If you were to cross over back into Canada through Calais, MDI and Acadia National Park would be well worth visiting.
I’d agree on the full size GM car, you still see decent ones around Vancouver and environs. Vancouver is an affluent place so there should be lots of choices.
I do have an alternate suggestions for the route as it looks like your Canadian route through BC and Alberta is the TCH. If you like the mountains try Highway 3 from Hope BC to Medicine Hat Alberta and join the TCH there. Very scenic for most of it’s length and most sections have less traffic. You’ll hit 5 mountain passes (real ones) in BC though, so make sure whatever you buy is up to it if you go this route.
Sounds like a great trip, have fun!
A 1986 Ford Club Wagon XLT. It is not a car, but a truck that drives like a car. Perhaps the Getaway van version? The 6.9 Navistar diesel was introduced in 1982 but not sure if it was available for non-commercial use during this period of time.
My old ’89 Club Wagon XLT was the 3/4 ton and while it rode with a bit of bounce at the rear, the twin I-beam front suspension provided a bit of comfort and was surprisingly gentle on the tires. The 351 and C3 combo was reliable and had no issues at over 150,000 miles. Plus it’s basically a Ford truck with a van body so parts are everywhere.
Awful mileage, but with anticipated reliability, my guess is that you’d be ahead.
Wow Marc, great idea. I get that idea whenever I have to travel for work, just buy something in Edmonton and drive home to Hamilton…
Here’s my pick for Vancouver area, a bit outside your budget and in Kamloops to boot…
http://www.kijiji.ca/v-classic-cars/vancouver/american-rambler/1151219813
Keep us posted, I’m very interested to know how you will get the car plated and insured for the trip, which I think will be harder than finding a car.
Since I’ve done the Trans Canada highway I’d be temped to swing south on one of your southern routes. The topography is a bit more varied….
Love it, but that flat 6 will make for a very leisurely journey. Collector Plates are the way to go in BC, way cheaper!
Oh, and as far as plating and insuring is concerned, I’m pretty sure you don’t even need a BC Driver’s license to do so. There’s plenty of Aussies and Kiwis here who buy cars for the winter or longer and sell them before going home or moving on.
Thanks for the suggestion – it’s a cool little car, but a bit outside my price range.
As far as insurance goes, I’d checked it out. It’s just a call to the insurance company, and they’ll email me a temporary card, while sending me the pink card in the mail.
Plates – I have a NS plate here with a valid sticker till the end of July, from a car I sold in the fall. I’m going to take that with the old permit in case.
I’m hoping to get a in transit permit from the BC authorities.
The insurance and licensing isn’t tied together in Nova Scotia like it seems to be in other places in Canada.
I did this trip in the mid 1980’s, can’t remember exactly what year, in a 1969 longroof 510. Did it in two parts though starting from Hamilton On. West coast one year and east coast the next. I had the car for a couple of years already and everyone thought I was crazy. You won’t get past Toronto is what I heard most often. I freshened up the motor with a rebuilt head, electronic ignition and swapped the 4spd for a 5spd and set out. I was the only driver on trip west and returned with a bad case of commuter’s elbow. Other than a burnt set of front wheel bearings in Saskatoon on the trip home the car ran flawlessly. I took my time and we camped along the way. A Prarie thunderstorm in a tent is quite frightening. Coyotes, elk, bears and whatever that was that ran away that night… didn’t get a good look at it but it was huge. Sasquatch? There was a half day delay 100km east of Thunder Bay while they dragged a truck out of a swamp. Massive traffic jam. Couldn’t see the end of it in either direction. Out came the lawn chairs, coolers and bbqs and suddenly it’s a party right there on the Trans Canada Highway. Biggest backyard party I have ever been to.
Canada is a beautiful country. You should see it and experience it. I have road tripped through the US and it too is beautiful but I always felt like a tourist down there. It’s a completely different experience that you don’t notice until you have done both. The people are basically the same but it just feels different and I have always wondered if the reverse is true. You buy gas in gallons, travel in miles and the money is a funny colour. It’s just weird.
Oh, and by the way, read this and do not repeat my mistakes:
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/born-to-be-wild-at-least-once-our-cross-canadian-motorcycle-trip/
This would be awfully tempting if it were me…
1972 Ambassador: http://victoria.craigslist.ca/cto/5515491303.html
This is a cool trip. In the late 90’s I drove out west through Canada. North shore of Superior, on to Saskatoon then Edmonton. We went south through Glacier National Park then east through Montana, Wyoming, Wisconsin. We avoided Chicago by taking a coal fired steamship ferry across Lake Michigan. Then we cut across norhern Michigan and crossed into Canada at Sarnia.
My ride for this trip was an 81 Fleetwood (all options including a factory power sunroof and the D’Elegance bordello interior). I had swapped in a modded ’69 Olds 455, with a THM400 trans. It had a 2.73 rear end for good highway cruising. It idled at 50 mph, and the mileage was respectable. We saw 130 mph on desertedvMontana highway (no fixed daytime speed limit then), and still had plenty of revs and throttle to go. We used a stopwatch and mile markers to calculate speed since the 85 mph speedo was pinned. I estimated it could do 150 mph, if I were foolish enough.
This was not quite a perfect vintage road trip car. Ours gave us a bit of trouble, including 2 bad front tires, a collaped transmission mount, vacuum leak, stuck distributor advance weights, and a warped Holley 4bbl casting, causing a rich mixture.
I don’t blame the car, the trouble was expected. I had finished installing the engine the day before we left, so we were working the bugs out of the car as we drove. Utterly amazing trip though. Our experiences making this trip would fill a book. And taking a cool old car added so much to the experience.
77-78 Buick Estate wagon with the 400 (401?) V8. I drove one on a two-week loop from NJ out to the Midwest and back via Ontario in ’87 with 4 of my college buddies. In August. Smooth and Powerful. Although a ’71 Town and Country with the 440 and dual A/C would be sorely tempting…
In terms of route, I like the middle route you outlined – Montana is beautiful, if barren, and the drive from Minnesota through Wisconsin to Chicago is also quite nice. But you’ll want to get a Sirius or one heck of a tape/CD collection.
Why not an H-body 1992+ Buick LeSabre? They’re cheap to buy in good shape, the bad ones have been junked by now, and parts and service are easily available. These cars are roomy, comfortable, reasonably torquey, and can get up to 30 mpg on the highway.
+1
The Olds 98 version was what came to mind for me, although a bit newer than the plan. Much cooler body (to me), nicer dashboard than the Buick. The Buick Electra would be equivalent in size. But beggars can’t be choosers in this case, so the shorter LeSabres and 88’s would have to do.
More modern than those real oldies, driver’s airbag, all with AC and cruise control etc., and like you said good mpg for their size. Super smooth, quiet, stretch out or nap across the back seat room, awesome visibility. Lock up torque converters started showing up around the 80’s.
The older Chrysler 440 station wagon someone mentioned above would be awesome, and also use absolutely horrifying amounts of fuel.
Damn, I talked myself into wanting one of those ’92 on 98 Regencies again.
Like this.
The pictured LeSabre is exactly like my parents last car, right down to the color. It would get high 20’s on the highway, and the 3.8 engine ran strong and was trouble free. But the transmission had to be rebuilt at around 100k miles, and about 20k miles later the ac compressor went out and the ac system was rebuilt as the whole system was full of metal shavings.
They garaged it and kept it mint, but Dad drove too long and the car had dents everywhere by the time I finally took the keys. But it still ran great and the interior was still like new. It was a comfortable highway cruiser.
I own a 1995 LeSabre. Mine has over 225k miles, and lived a hard life before I bought it. But, it’s as reliable as a tank. I seem to average 28-29MPG highway, and the power is there. The old girl can move pretty well.
If you’d be okay with a newer car, look no further. The 1992-1999 LeSabre is your answer.
Well, my current car isn’t 30 years old yet (2000 Golf) but the car that it replaced just qualifies as it was a 1986 GTI. VW might be a bit tricky for parts, but the ’86 was easy to work on, and pretty roomy ( you may have to crank open the sunroof to get enough headroom for your Father-in-Law.
I live in the central part of the US, and though my 2000 Golf only has 114000 miles on it, it has been to both coasts, though not on the same trip…LA on one trip, and the east coast several times, though not always as far as Marblehead Mass (my parents lived there before I was born) where we drove one trip. I’ve been through Nova Scotia and onto Prince Edward Island but that was a long time ago (and not with my current car)…likewise Vancouver BC.
The secret to my low mileage on the car is that I don’t have much of a commute and my parents live in the same city I do…I don’t get out much, but when I do, we tend to take long (1/2 way across the country) trips….I had my 5000 mile checkup in Pennsylvania a little while after I bought the car on one such trip. Back then I was still gainfully employed with a job with 5 weeks vacation a year (I’ve since been reduced to a contracting job where I don’t get any vacation, so the trips have ceased, last one was in 2011. I keep the car up pretty well, it has all new hoses, and new suspension all around (pretty expensive but my ride height is now probably even higher than when the car was new…no lowering springs for me).
Hope you have a good trip
I took my ’86 Jetta GL on many 1000 + mile trips when it was in the 200k+ mile range, getting about 36 MPG and other than flat tire and a broken timing belt (it had 120k miles on the belt, non interference motor so no damage) never broke down. But probably a little too small Marc’s Dad, but my 6.4 275lb brother in law and my sister have been using my recently purchased $700.00 Craigslist ’87 Jetta for around town driving for about a month now, and he fits in fine with the seat all the way back. Not much room for anyone behind him, though. I still daily drive it at 300k+ miles, but now save road trips for my newer truck. I still would trust the Jetta today on a long trip, but would bring my tools.
In New Brunswick, get off of the Trans Canada and travel down the 105 along the Saint John River or take the Plaster Rock highway and meander along the Gulf Coast to Shediac.
Don’t drive right through!
The route that is the furthest south, and a Town Car (perfect for long highway trips). This quite nice one is unfortunately an 87’….
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/bnc/ctd/5520016843.html
Something like this would be great: http://bend.craigslist.org/cto/5512404885.html
Would leave plenty of cash for tune up, fluids, filters, etc.
Or this: http://portland.craigslist.org/clc/cto/5515264331.html
Whatever you get, I would fully service it, and add a transmission, and aux. oil cooler. Cheap insurance, because being broken down in a podunk town in an old car is not fun, ask me how I know.
As for a car, I have no better suggestion than any of those above.
As for a route based on my experience (having lived in cities on both I-90 and I-80) I would avoid I-80 (the southernmost route you propose). Simple reason – too many semi trucks and their discourteous drivers. They block the left lane from Davenport to Evanston.
For your middle route, I would suggest I-90 across South Dakota and northeast Wyoming over I-94 across North Dakota and eastern Montana. Both segments are boring but I-90 maybe less so and with maybe more services along the way.
A 1986 Cadillac Brougham with the 5.0 V8 should fit the bill
http://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rch/cto/5515853416.html
I would agree except raise the ride height back to stock
Eh, I’ve done the Oldsmobile 307-powered cars. Too much plumbing under the hood, electronic carb, only 140 HP. It’s smooth and quiet and if the carb settings and sensors are ok gets great mileaage, but really weak sauce. I’d get at least a 350/TH350 car. It’s the difference between adequate and weak…especially on mountainous terrain.
Not to mention the intake manifold gasket that loves to leak on these, creating a coolant and a vacuum leak.
Yes! It is the trip of a lifetime, but- give yourselves a bit more time, eh. It would seem like a long weekend [having to be back in the office by Tuesday noon…] That time-frame is too much like the “hero-driving” that I’ve done in the distant past…e.g. Montreal-vancouver non-stop. [not recommended] I think every Canadian should drive across this fabulous country at least once [and Americans too if they want to]
Great plan, great posts,and this is just the beginning! You can’t not have a good time!Thank you for including us all.
Having covered most highways in the Western part of this country I can vouch for Hwy #3 being a more scenic and quiet route through BC than the usual TCH + Coquihalla. It takes longer but it’s not so bad when you consider it rejoins the TCH in Medicine Hat.
I’ve driven BC to Manitoba (and beyond) at least 20 times and I can say that it’s a mighty boring drive through the prairies. My apologies to my Alberta and Saskatchewan neighbours but the TCH cuts across a mind-numbing expanse of land. I’d recommend a southern route from the Medicine Hat or Maple Creek area, the back roads are far more scenic and interesting. My favourite route was Hwy #18 In Saskatchewan, eventually rejoining the TCH near Winnipeg. Lots of cool near-ghost towns and rolling hills.
Not much to see from Winnipeg to Ontario, but Hwy #17 in Ontario is a pretty fun drive. East of Thunder Bay the Hwy starts hugging Lake Superior, pretty cool scenery.
Sounds like an awesome trip, enjoy!
Chevrolet Caprice wagon. What else?
All good suggestions but why not consider an old school full size conversation van?
There was a bunch of manufacturers who converted full size cargo vans (G20, E250, B250 etc.) in the 70’s and 80’s, usually badly, but they can be bought cheap.
They’re not great on gas but the V8’s are reliable, there’s lots of room and in a pinch can Function as sleeping quarters.
I took a look around Kijiji (more popular than Craiglist in Canada) and it’s all dodgy, worn out, overpriced or all three but that can quickly change.
Good luck on the trip, it’s something I always wanted to do.
This will be a great trip whichever route you choose. I would choose the middle route but I have always wanted to see the greater part of Canada I vote for the full size GM car, maybe a nice Buick or Olds wagon. A 77-79 Cadillac Deville would have plenty of power and space. Besides packing spares be sure to pack a good attitude and a sense of humor, you’ll probably need those more than anything else. If you could spare a couple days of more urban sightseeing before heading off into wild it would come in handy as a shakedown period. Good luck, I look forward to reading about your adventure.
Another nice choice:
https://bellingham.craigslist.org/cto/5493102568.html
or this:
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/5486124146.html
I would take this one in a heartbeat!
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/van/cto/5513660099.html
3900 seems like a lot for that wagon, but if the CFI isn’t acting up and it’s in nice shape otherwise, perhaps.
Personally I like that Cadillac! Great color, and white leather? Come on.
The Caddy is the winner for the price. Don’t know anything about the engines at that point, but low miles and it got this far. (Does the AC work????) I know that’s asking a lot.
Get one of these too.
I would recommend the northern route simply to see the north bank of Lake Superior.
As far as the car, go for best condition possible in something parts are still readily available for. Either a Ford Panther or GM B-Body fits the bill.
I did your trip in reverse many years ago when I moved from Halifax to Vancouver, and did the all-Canada route. One of the highlights for me was the north shore of Lake Superior (Hwy 17), south of your planned route. It’s a very long day from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay, but the landscape is beautiful. If there were the usual ‘Group of Seven’ paintings in your school classrooms & libraries as a kid, it can be quite thrilling to see the real thing. Real ‘Canadiana’. 🙂
The Terry Fox Memorial is also just outside Thunder Bay.
If you do stay in Canada, I’d suggest getting off the Trans Canada occasionally. There are two-lane highway options in the Prairies (still pretty fast roads, given that they’re dead straight), and it’s nice to pass through lots of small towns. Highway 3 in British Columbia is also a much nicer (but definitely slower) drive than the Trans Canada, with beautiful quasi-desert (& wine) areas like the Okanagan Valley, and towns like Nelson, BC, along the way.
My only advice is avoid Chicago unless you plan on going through very early on a Sunday morning.
Toyota Cressida. Japan’s answer to the B-Body. And as a bonus it won’t need any repairs. Ever. 🙂 Some years even had button-tufted velour.
+1
Without a doubt, for maximum comfort and reliability look for a nice rear wheel drive Lincoln Towncar. I used to rent them in the eighties for long trips from Budget and enjoyed every one to the max. Later I purchased an 89 front drive Lincon Continental and while it was wonderful for driving and riding it was totally unreliable and never could get the HVAC system to work properly. It is also full of computers to go bad and you don’t see many around any longer. But the RWD Lincolns are great. I have owned a lot of Toyotas including a Cressida wagon which we enjoyed a lot but let me tell you it doesn’t come close to a Lincon Towncar for comfort. Also, there seem to be many very nice older Towncars on the market that probably belonged to older folks who took care of them and didn’t drive a whole lot. I recently saw a beauty on Hemmings with 42,000 original miles for less than $11,000 but I realize that would not meet your budget. Sounds like a fun trip.
http://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/5457992518.html
Such an epic road trip deserves an equally epic automobile. How about a ’69-’72 W108/109 Mercedes 300SEL 4.5 or 3.5? All the smoothness and sheer class of a 6.3 and nearly as quick (much lighter), without the high price and fiddly air suspension. Driver quality and even #2 quality examples are well within the realm of affordability for mere mortals. What a way to cross the continent in grand style!
I’d like a Mercedes/BMW/Volvo, but parts for the thing, or my ability to fix it if it breaks down really scares me.
I did a run from Ontario down thru the coastal states and then up thru your neck of the woods to newfoundland and home in an 85 caddy Fleetwood. awesome car for the trip and don’t let anyone put you off because of mileage. on the open highway those big tanks are surprisingly good.
having owned an 80 gran fury with a slant six..DO NOT!! I loved mine for what it was and it is one I wish I had kept longer but on the highway at higher speeds and for passing it has all the power of an asthmatic tortoise. plus having to keep your foot in it all the time just to keep up with the earth’s rotation kills the gas mileage. 😉
Here’s a story by CC’s Len Peters about taking a ’78 Cadillac across the Canadian Rockies:
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/blog/road-trip-classic-1978-cadillac-sedan-deville-across-the-great-divide-in-a-grand-old-lady/
Hi Paul, it is funny you should post that….
I live in Vancouver and there are loads of good sleds around to do exactly what you want. For example, here is a 1987 Caprice with only 125,000 km on it. The guy is laughing at $3000 and half that would buy this car.
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rch/cto/5488952586.html
However, if gargantuan is what you are after:
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/5510709773.html
I’m guessing the Olds has adequate trunk room. 455 V8….probably no lockup torque converter yet (?)……..good thing gas prices are low.
I’m going to go and look at that Caprice. That’d be a comfortable car. There’s a Regal out there too that I like the look of.
http://vancouver.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/5507186826.html
The cars out there look like they are in lovely shape. The salt and salt air took care of most of the cars around here.
I’ve got no better suggestions for your ride, but many thoughts about your route. 3 years ago we drove Calgary – St John’s and back, and 2014 Calgary – Victoria return…the entire length of the TCH over 2 summers. We wanted to see the country…so some thoughts…
I disagree about Hwy 3 (the Crowsnest route) – yes, it’s beautiful, but there are so many iconic routes you’ll miss, and this is your first time this way. I’d recommend Hwy 3 through Manning Park, but then up 97 through the Okanagan and over Rogers’ Pass, through Yoho and Banff (with the mandatory photo stop at Lake Louise). Take a 1/2 day detour up the Icefields Parkway to see Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefields.
Don’t miss the Alberta badlands. Either take Hwy 9 NE from Calgary through Drumheller, or better still take the side trip from Brooks to Dinosaur Provincial Park. It’s an other-worldly setting, unlike anything, anywhere in the country.
I’d recommend following Hwy 17 through Ontario. This route hugs the lakeshore, which everyone should do once. The drive east of Sault Ste Marie along the north shore of Huron is lovely. And the drive along the Ottawa River valley from Mattawa is recommended.
OTOH, If you do sort out the passports and decide on a US route, consider US 2 through northern Wisconsin and Michigan. It’s a bit slower, but you’ll see much of Superior’s southern shore. You then have the choice to re-enter Canada at the Sault, or head south across the Mackinac Bridge. I agree to miss Chicago – not worth the trouble if you’re just passing through.
2 weeks should be enough, and give you some time for some sights along the way.
Off topic really, but here’s a discussion of the ’91 and on Buick vs. Olds in CC from three years ago. Except everyone is wrong – the Olds version is awesomer. It must be the last half covered rear wheel car made, which to me is part of its coolness, plus the long squared off rear deck. Imagine the cross country friendly trunk space. It has more than a bit of the last of the ’61 Continental look to it. The more practically sized 88’s had full openings and shorter and more sloped and rounded trunk. They look practically contemporary in comparison.
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/gm-deadly-sin-2/curbside-classic-1991-oldsmobile-ninety-eight-gms-deadly-sin-20-a-sad-end-to-the-oldest-oldsmobile/
See how awesome this guy thinks his is? He’s right.
I just bought an old BMW Z3 2.8 as a weekend cruiser and am planning a 5 day trip in June from Sarasota to Charlotte, NC to see my brother. I can’t wait. I’m also debating which route I should take for maximum enjoyment and scenery.
What a great trip you have planned.
Id take the southern route, then return on the mid one and then finish on the northern. It might take a bit longer but what teh heck.
This Caddy might be my pick
https://vancouver.craigslist.ca/van/cto/5513660099.html
I’d love to travel through the states, but the FIL doesn’t have a passport. We’re pretty much limited to Canada.
It’s more than a little intimidating – it took about 5 hours in a plane to go from Ottawa to Vancouver…be a lot more than that driving in a car…
I read somewhere that for visits to the US Canadian citizens don’t need passports; just a visitors pass that you can get at port facilities.
Any way you drive across the prairies is going to be pretty dull.
Since you are taking your time anyway, I wouldn’t recommend any of those routes. I’d go through the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Devil’s Tower, and Mount Rushmore. If you like corny roadside selfie opportunities you’d then want to head north along the Enchanted Highway into North Dakota and then head east on I-94 and see the world’s largest holstein cow, world’s largest sandhill crane, world’s largest buffalo, world’s largest prairie chicken and you can find an otter and Viking not too far off the Interstate. It makes the prairies a bit more fun. From there you can hit the Mall of America and then Chicago. All depends on what you want to do.
If you want comfort, room and style – grace, pace and space, as they say – there is only one car to take:
Citroen CX Prestige.
(ok, a well maintained and serviced one!)
just like the four dutch gentlemen I saw in this lovely specimen on the Autobahn in January, on their way to the Alps, obviously.
I was VERY jeleaous when I passed them – and even more so when they passed me again. It was a Series 2 Prestige Turbo 2. Very quick. The chaps on the backseat had their legs crossed and read their newspaper …
Nice catch !
I checked its plate, first date of registration is November 13, 1985. So it’s almost 31 years old. It’s registered as a CX 25 Prestige (= long wheelbase) Turbo; 165 hp from its 2.5 liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine.
Well, I made it in one piece, three flights and three hours sleep later! Now waiting for my father and father-in-law to arrive.
Any updates?
I did find a car and we’ve been travelling home. I just put an update up, and plan to write a few more. The three of us ended up sidelined and wiped with a cold, so I haven’t updated like I would have liked to
!