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Van Daryl War Truck: an iconic Vietnam War jeep in a luxury makeover

When ancient war machines meet modern elegance

Van Daryl War Truck
Photo: Van Daryl

At the end of the Vietnam War, the streets of Saigon were littered with abandoned military jeeps. These former warriors became forgotten relics of the past – until Daryl Villanueva stepped onto the scene. The design genius behind Bandit9 decided to breathe new life into these machines. The result was the Van Daryl War Truck, a completely reimagined war jeep that combines rugged heritage with modern aesthetics and luxury.

Van Daryl War Truck is not just a restored vintage car – it is redesigned, improved and adapted to modern standards. The basis of the vehicle remains the original M151 MUTT, which was manufactured by Ford for the US military in the 1950s and 1960s. Its simple but robust design was transformed by Villanueva into something completely new.

Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl

Under the hood, you can choose between two powertrains:

  • Original 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine – true to its heritage, suitable for purists and fans of analog driving.
  • Updated drivetrain, including electric version – for those who want to combine timeless military design with an ecological future.

Regardless of engine choice, the vehicle benefits from improved chassis, modern steering and upgraded brakes. This means that the former military machine now drives with a feel closer to a luxury SUV than a rugged 1960s SUV.

Machined aluminum, maple wood, and the softest leather

When you enter the Van Daryl War Truck, you are not greeted by military rigor, but by a thoughtfully designed interior with premium materials. Hand-stitched calf leather, hand-finished maple wood panels and precision machined aluminum create a cabin that is nothing short of luxurious. The minimalist yet functional dashboard features advanced instruments that combine retro aesthetics with modern technology.

Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl

Exclusivity on four wheels

Every Van Daryl War Truck is custom made, tailored to the specific wishes of the customer. This is not a mass-produced vehicle, but a hand-assembled one-off that combines a military past with modern luxury. Due to its limited production and exclusive character, it is a true collector's vehicle that will not go unnoticed - regardless of whether you drive it on city streets or wild off-road trails.

Price? If you have to ask, you probably can't afford it. But given Villanueva's history with Bandit9 and the handcrafted details, we can expect the price to be quite high - but totally justified for those looking for something truly special.

Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl
Photo: Van Daryl

Conclusion: a work of art on wheels that knows no compromises

Van Daryl War Truck isn't just another classic Jeep restoration. It's a work of art that combines past and future, military heritage and modern exclusivityWith a unique combination of ruggedness, sophistication and personalization, this machine isn't just for riding - it's a statement.

Photo: Van Daryl

If you're a fan of cars that tell a story and appreciate craftsmanship without compromise, the War Truck is something you'll want to add to your collection. The only question is – Are you ready for this adventure?

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