Being a dyed in the wool Volkswagen Van owner since 1970, hundreds of Type 11’s passed through with some leaving a remarkable impression, mostly the latter Syncro Vanagon models (which I used to refer to as a Hand Grenade with the Pin pulled) that left me along side many a highway and by way. But I loved what they did and how they got it done.
So when this 1990 Nissan Atlas F22 Double Cab, 4WD flat bed pickup truck equipped with a lift gate came across the horizon, I was pulled like metal fillings to a large magnet. Here was a Diesel, 5- Speed, Double Cab, Four Wheel Drive version of what had left me stranded so many times previously, but made by Nissan servicing the entire world with the same attributes as the Volkswagen but with a Japanese build quality. And the steering wheel was on the right side of the truck as it was sold new in Japan.

The Quad Cab is powered by a 2,488cc Diesel motor that is rated at 70 horse power. There is independent suspension in front and a solid axle in the back. The transfer case is a two speed 4WD with 2WD, 4WD or 4WDL choices. The 5 speed transmission is a bit odd to adjust too being on your left but a couple of miles it was working out well, I imagine a couple days and it would be a natural. The lift gate is very quick and easily lifted 3 guys, but I am not sure of it’s overall rating.

Driving it around town was a hoot. Everyone was shocked to see the left front passenger seat empty as it rolled past them in traffic. Not too severe, but it got a lot of stares. Anytime I stopped, it was the same thing, “That would make a great shop Truck” or “What a great rig for a business with your logo on the doors”. The wheelbase is about 97" and the over all length is 183". The bed is 65" wide and 83" long. I took it down Rogue River Highway and it cruises at 100 KLM without a problem. I did see that when I leaned on the throttle or past ¾ travel, diesel smoke was visible.

We have an Oregon title, plates and tags. The VIN is AMF22021141. Kilometers are 161,270 or converted to 100,209 miles . For other interesting bikes and collectible vehicles, visit our web site http://www.automaniagp.com 541 479 8888 or come by and see us at 895 SE Gladiola Drive, Grants Pass, Oregon, 97526. Oregon Dealer DA1287.

Automania LLC is a Consignment Oregon Dealer selling quality, privately owned vehicles including Aprilia, Buell, BMW, Citroen, Ducati, Harley Davidson, Honda, Hummer, Kawasaki, Moto Guzzi, MV Agusta, Nissan, Ossa, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Vespa, Classic Hot Rods, Buick, Dodge, Ford, Chevrolet, Lamborghini, MG, Packard, Porsche, Rover, Shelby, Toyota, Triumph, Volkswagen and any other vehicle of interest