Movie props and movie cars make up a large section of the collector market, with some vehicles selling at incredibly high prices due to their association to popular films or TV shows.
Perhaps the most iconic van in the world is the GMC van used in the incredibly popular The A-Team series that ran on NBC between 1983 to 1987. Well, that and the Scooby Doo van.
Only one of them is coming up for auction, and it could be the perfect vehicle to let you do your best take on the famous “I pity the fool” line. Or not, depending on how you feel about a non-exact replica being marketed as the “official” A-Team van.
Available in the gallery above is the 1979 Chevrolet A-Team van, modified to resemble the iconic GMC, as listed with Worldwide Auctioneers for their upcoming January 23, 2021 live event. It’s described as “1 of 6 officially licensed vans by Universal Studios” that was used extensively to promote the NBC series in the U.S. and Canada and “one of the most recognizable TV series vehicles.”
Here’s the gotcha, though. This van was never used in the show and, why yes, it’s not even the correct color. The A-Team van, as you must know since you’re reading this, is black with red accents, but this one is gray and black with orange. There is some similarity with the original as regards the color scheme, and the interior is on theme, with gun props stuck to the sides and a machine gun strapped to the floor, and a CB radio to maintain contact with the other team members.
The listing notes that this replica was used for promotional purposes for as long as the series was on the air, which probably explains why it’s showing 90,297 miles (145,319 km) on the clock. “It was one of the most popular attractions while touring the auto shows,” says the listing, perhaps to reinforce the idea that it’s still a recognizable A-Team van despite the different color scheme.
“Instantly recognizable as one of TV’s most iconic vehicles, this is a highly entertaining promotional and exhibition vehicle that would be welcome at shows and events everywhere,” John Kruse, Principal and Auctioneer, says of the vehicle. “We’re excited to be selling it without reserve at home here in Auburn, along with four additional classics, to benefit such an inspiring national cause.”
And that’s the most amazing part about this replica: proceeds will be donated to the J. Kruse Education Center, a nonprofit that offers career development to students and veterans.
Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends. Full profile
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