LT1 V8 Swap: 1992 Chevrolet Astro LT

It happens three or four times a month without fail, strangers approach me in hushed tones and ask "what is the best platform for an engine swap?"  At first, I'm taken back by the fact that I'm being asked such a strange question in the middle of Sunday Mass, but then I shrug my shoulders and whisper in a hoarse but brief reply-- "Chevy Astro Van". Really...as if there is any other answer to this question.  Find this 1992 Chevrolet Astro LT offered for $9995 in Colorado Springs, CO via craigslist.  Tip from Barbpaddles via engineswapdepot. 

Hey, Hold My Beer: 1985 Chevrolet Astro Van

If there were ever a car that screamed "hey hold my beer and watch this" -- this next thing is it.  This isn't the first Astro Van to be equipped with a few extra horsepower...but...just take a closer look..  Find this 1985 Chevrolet Astro Van offered for $16,500 in Fredericksburg, VA via craigslist.  Tip from John M.

Big Brother Is Watching You: 2000 GMC Safari Van

The GMC Safari was a badge engineered version of the popular Chevrolet Astro, but it could be optioned without the tall greenhouse and glass windows -- instead it has the panel sides of a creeper work van.  The Safari/Astro/Express wasn't a large van, but it offered a frugal driving experience compared to a full sized van, and can still haul a bunch of junk...or be equipped with hidden surveillance equipment.  Find this 2000 GMC Safari Van offered for $7850 in Santa Clara, CA via craigslist. Tip from Matthew.

Marve's Do-Over Drive: The $1,000 Challenge

This next feature comes from Marve Harwell, who raised his hand when we recently asked for contributors.  Take it away Marve!

What if your life suddenly became a country song; you lost your job and your dog drove away with your wife and pick-up truck, leaving you with nothing but bad credit. You have to start over in a new town with just a bag full of bitter memories and thousand bucks to secure transportation.  I have assembled for your consideration four examples of what one G can buy in various parts of this land of opportunity. I'll offer my own observations but which one of these wagons of woe would you choose if you were starting over?

5k: Fastro Van: 1995 Chevrolet Astro Van 454 V8

The Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari was a medium sized van that used light truck power trains in a unibody van chassis.  Its rear drive setup separated it from the front-drive mini-vans, but the size (and mass) of the Astro/Safari was closer to the minivans, which makes them the perfect car for a righteous engine swap.  Find this 1995 Chevrolet Astro Van with 454 V8 here on eBay, currently bidding for $3,500 reserve-not-met with 1 day to go.  Tip from Adam.