Why Are Retro Vans Making a Comeback?
If you’ve noticed a growing number of modern vehicles with a distinctly vintage vibe, you’re not imagining things. There’s a real hunger for nostalgia in the automotive world right now, and it’s not just about classic cars—it’s hitting vans, too. Italian coachbuilder Caselani has tapped right into this trend, unveiling a new retro-inspired van that channels the spirit of the 1960s Fiat 616N but sits atop a thoroughly modern Fiat Ducato platform.
What’s driving this resurgence? For many, it’s about blending the charm and character of yesteryear with the reliability and comfort of today’s engineering. The result? Pure magic. You get a vehicle that turns heads at every stoplight but doesn’t leave you stranded on the side of the road.
How Does Caselani Transform a Modern Fiat Ducato Into a Vintage Icon?
Turning a practical van into a rolling piece of art isn’t as simple as slapping on a few chrome badges. Caselani’s process, led by designer David Obendorfer, is a deep dive into automotive history. Obendorfer, known for his work on other retro-inspired vans like the Citroen Jumper and Berlingo, brings a keen eye for detail.
The transformation starts with the basics: the Fiat Ducato’s body is stripped down, and new panels are fitted to echo the rounded headlights, curved fenders, and distinctive hood of the original 616N. While the roof and greenhouse remain largely unchanged, the new exterior panels blend seamlessly, creating a silhouette that’s unmistakably vintage.
Inside, things are a bit more familiar. The dashboard, controls, and mechanical bits are carried over from the Ducato, ensuring modern safety and comfort. This approach means you get all the reliability of a new van, wrapped in a shell that looks like it rolled straight out of a sepia-toned postcard.
What Customization Options Are Available for the Caselani 616N?
One of the joys of a coachbuilt vehicle is the ability to make it your own. Caselani doesn’t disappoint here. The 616N conversion kit isn’t just for campervans (though the first two builds are indeed campers); it’s also available for panel vans, box trucks, and even tow trucks.
Buyers can pick from nine single-tone and three two-tone paint finishes, so whether you want a subtle nod to the past or a bold, two-tone statement, you’re covered. Each body style comes with its own tailored tweaks, allowing for a surprising amount of personalization.
And if you’re the type who likes to stand out at the next vintage car meet—or just want your business to get noticed on the road—this van’s got you covered.
What’s Under the Hood? Modern Power Meets Classic Looks
Don’t let the retro styling fool you—this van is no slouch. Under the hood, you’ll find Fiat’s 2.2-liter Multijet turbodiesel engine, available in three power levels: 120, 140, or 180 horsepower. That’s more than enough grunt for hauling gear, towing, or just cruising the coast in style.
For those leaning toward a greener future, the all-electric Fiat E-Ducato is likely compatible with the Caselani kit. The E-Ducato packs a punch with 268 horsepower and a hefty 110 kWh battery, offering a blend of zero-emissions driving and classic cool.
It’s worth noting that the conversion kit isn’t limited to the Ducato. Thanks to the shared underpinnings of several Stellantis vans, you could theoretically apply the same retro treatment to a Citroen Jumper, Peugeot Boxer, Opel Movano, Toyota ProAce Max, Iveco Super Jolly, or even a Ram ProMaster. That’s a lot of options for fans of both form and function.
How Does the Caselani 616N Compare to Other Retro Conversions?
Caselani isn’t new to the retro game. Their previous projects—like the Citroen 2CV-inspired Berlingo—have already turned plenty of heads. But the 616N stands out for its faithful homage to Fiat’s workhorse vans of the 1950s and 60s.
What sets this van apart is the balance between authenticity and usability. While some retro conversions sacrifice practicality for style, the 616N keeps the modern van’s cargo space, safety features, and driving dynamics. It’s a practical vehicle that just happens to look like a rolling slice of Italian history.
When and Where Can You See the Caselani 616N in Person?
Curious to see this blend of past and present up close? The Caselani 616N will make its public debut at the Caravan Salon 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, on August 29. That’s the place to be if you want to check out the craftsmanship in person, chat with the builders, and maybe even start planning your own custom build.
Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but the model is already listed on Caselani’s official website, so expect more details to drop soon. If history is any guide, these conversions won’t come cheap—but for those who value style and individuality, it’s a price worth considering.
What’s the Real Appeal of a Retro-Modern Van Like This?
Let’s be honest: driving a van like the Caselani 616N is about more than just getting from A to B. It’s about making a statement, sparking conversations, and maybe even reliving a bit of the past. In a world where so many vehicles look the same, a retro-inspired van is a breath of fresh air.
The big takeaway? Automotive nostalgia isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re a business owner looking to stand out or a vanlife enthusiast chasing your next adventure, a little vintage flair can go a long way.