The Ford Taunus 17M Turnier is one of the iconic models of the 70s. This beautiful and comfortable car, which could serve as both a passenger car and a practical van, was delivered from the factory as a “Kastenwagen” (cabinet car), so that it could hit the road with a grey registration plate. This special vehicle combined functionality with a characteristic appearance, which made it very popular with both business users and car enthusiasts.
The history of the Ford Taunus 17M Turnier
The story of this Ford Taunus 17M Turnier begins at the local Ford dealer in Woerden, where the car led its first life as an intensively used service vehicle. With a spacious loading floor and low maintenance costs, it was ideal for quickly loading and unloading parts. The robust construction and practical layout made the car a reliable partner in a variety of transport tasks in the 60s and 70s. In a period when Ford was a dominant player in Europe, the Taunus was praised for its modern design and innovative technology, making it a symbol of durability and craftsmanship.
A reawakening: restoration and revival
After eight years of loyal service at the dealership and the loss of the dealership, the car was about to leave the field. Fortunately, the involvement of Jan's brother showed that there was still a lot of potential in the robust machine. First it was used on their parents' dairy farm and even considered as a cross car, before it was stored in a shed.
An attempt to make the Ford Taunus 17M Turnier MOT-worthy again resulted in the gloomy verdict “Too bad!”. However, this verdict aroused the unyielding determination of Jan, a metalworker, and his brother, an experienced Ford car mechanic who took on the overhaul of the engine. With creativity, perseverance and searching for parts at fairs, events and via trade magazines such as Auto Motor Klassiek, the restoration became a real challenge. In 2003 Jan reactivated the license plate at the RDW, which brought the car back to life as a driving symbol of passion and craftsmanship – now 44 years young.
The personal bond and the heritage
Jan's love for this Taunus is evident from his involvement in the Taunus club, where he plays an important role as an active member of the events committee. "Certainly a rare Ford boxcar, because as far as I know there are still 3 driving examples in the Netherlands, one of which is also in the car museum in Schagen", says Jan. This statement not only emphasises the unique position of the car in Dutch car history, but also the personal and emotional value that car enthusiasts attach to such classic examples. For Jan, the Ford Taunus 17M Turnier is much more than a means of transport; it is tangible evidence of a bygone era in which craftsmanship, perseverance and care for heritage were central.
The Ford Taunus 17M Turnier
Historically, the Ford Taunus marked an important transitional period in the automotive world, in which commercial vehicles increasingly acquired the characteristics of passenger cars. The Ford Taunus 17M Turnier, with its robust engine and clever layout, was both practical and aesthetically impressive. Ford, a pioneer in the European automotive market, managed to develop a vehicle with the Taunus that not only met the requirements of the time, but also stood the test of time. Various automotive history publications confirm that this model was a model of innovation and sustainability, characteristics that seem rare today in a world that is increasingly focused on high-speed production and mass consumption.
Living monument
The Ford Taunus 17M Turnier (1972) is a living monument to automotive history, where technical innovation and authentic craftsmanship went hand in hand with personal passion. For Jan and many other enthusiasts, this car remains a symbol of a time when quality and heritage were paramount. Its story, filled with challenges and triumphs, invites us to reflect on the rich history and the lasting impact of classic cars on our culture.
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What a beautiful car! Great that these brothers have brought this 'workhorse' back to this state.
Ok, a Ford Taunus 17M, I've seen that often enough. I've 'seen' the 17M Turnier, but that's it. A special car. You can tell that it's been used and that makes it even more desirable in my eyes. The sound of those V-engines will never leave my memory. As a 15-year-old boy, I learned to drive in Ford Transits. I still remember as if it were yesterday how it felt and how the gear lever lay in my hand. Unforgettable. And now we can look at that Turnier from the same brand. Yum yum!! 😋😋👍🏼 After years of wandering, I have recently returned to the Ford nest. Not comparable to the Transit, nor to a 17M Turnier, but it does feel like coming home, 'Fordreffelijk'!