Newer gas bus to convert or older diesel bus to convert?

[Dmcdonough]

I have been having a very hard time deciding on which bus to buy to convert to live in! A friend of mine is selling his 1988 e350 bus with a 7.3 non turbo. It is 4x4 and has had a lot of work done to it (reinforcing and rust repair, new e40d, propex heater). 50k miles on a rebuild. He wants 10k for it. I also found another one that I am considering... It is a 1996 Ford Super duty with a 4x4 Quigley. This one has the 7.5 l 460... Has 150k miles on it. She wants 7k for it. Says it is 24 ft long and 8 ft wide..

I want a bus that can survive some pretty cold winters.. What do you think? I am nervous about the Gas mileage on the gas bus, and I am nervous about the life left on the 88. Thank you so much I really appreciate it!!

[EastCoastCB]

If 4x4 isn't important to you, then buy it and flip it. People pay BIG bucks for 4x4 vans and buses.

[Dmcdonough]

4x4 is definitely important ! I shouldve said that

[EastCoastCB]

Then jump on it, or you'll end up having to search all over and/or pay a TON of money for such a van/bus.