Summary

Re-creation as seen in the "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You" TV series aired from 1969-76. Stunning paint and interior with full custom upholstery. Powered by a 302ci V8 engine with automatic transmission. From The Dr. Stewart A. Berkowitz Collection.

Details

This 1974 Ford Econoline van is a re-creation of the "Mystery Machine" as seen in "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You," a television series that aired from 1969 to 1976. The 1960s was a decade of massive change affecting all facets of society, and Saturday morning cartoons were the growing targets of watch groups that emerged in protest to the perceived violence children were exposed to. Fred Silverman, an executive for daytime programming at CBS, responded by seeking out a show that would both revitalize his Saturday-morning lineup and appease the watch groups, resulting in "The Archie Show" from Filmation, with songs performed by fictitious rock/po group The Archies, including "Sugar, Sugar," the most successful Billboard No. 1 hit of 1969. Building on that success, Silverman contacted producers William Hanna and Joseph Barbera about creating another show based on a teenage rock group, this time featuring teens who solved mysteries between gigs, resulting in the animated TV show "Scooby Doo, Where Are You?" of 1969-76, which inspired further TV and movie productions over the intervening years. In addition to main characters Fred, Velma, Daphne, Shaggy and their Great Dane Scooby-Doo, their groovy, custom-painted Mystery Machine van was a happening on wheels and the vehicular star of the show that inspired custom van builders to create replicas of their own ever since. Purchased by Dr. Berkowitz as a basic Ford Econoline from a Californian owner in August 2016 at just 13,427 recorded miles, the vehicle was custom-painted by Walter D'Andrea Bodyworks in Florida, and Carthom Upholstery of New Rochelle, NY, was commissioned to create the stunning custom interior. Other highlights include a 302ci V8 engine, automatic transmission, power brakes, an upgraded aluminum radiator, Optima battery, climate control and a custom sound system. Five-spoke custom wheels enhance the 1960s/early '70s vibe. From The Dr. Stewart A. Berkowitz Collection.