Review written on 6/1929.

We've had access to the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel for a while now. This Van surprised us more than the Cybele or the Vesta. Is it worth the price? Or should you buy a different Van? Read ahead to find out!


Is the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel fast? Uh, No. But is that important? Maybe. For a Van the Appalachian Diesel is well below average. There are many other vehicles in this class that can move better and faster on the track. And because of that we don't consider it to be very good. The 40 hp @ 1100RPMs 4233 cc I3 engine is underpowered for this vehicle. Which ultimately hurts its performance. The Appalachian Diesel is able to reach a top speed of 35 mph and it does Not Applicable on the strip. When we hooked it up to our test trailer the 156 lb-ft of torque was able to move 3476 lbs. Which was very good for a its class. And that leaves us with one conclusion. Philadelphia Motors Should have probably used a bigger, better engine for this vehicle. But as it is, it will do. When it comes to handling, the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel is one of the worst Van we have tested. We fear for our lives any time there is a slight bend in the road.


The Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel is the definition of basic transportation. The seats feel like they're chiseled out of concrete. The dash isn't much better. And features? What features?

Inside the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel it feels like they could add an extra row of seats. There is enough room to even lay down, which is amazing! The 123 cu-ft of cargo and passenger space ensures that you always have plenty of room to do whatever it is you need to do. And that makes us happy.

While not exactly handmade, Philadelphia Motors did put a bit of extra work into the Appalachian Diesel and it shows. Panels actually fit and are made to last. The finish doesn't fade in the sun, and all the bolts have washers. It begs the question why buy a lower quality car every 5 years, and not buy the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel which should last a few generations?


I imagine it'll be rare to find a Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel in repair shops or even junk yards. These things are well built with quality parts. And that will show in the long run.

Whether or not the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel is an energy company conspiracy or not is up for debate. What is certain is the Appalachian Diesel awful fuel mileage of 6.7 mpg will certainly drive up energy stocks!

The Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel is the kind of vehicle a mortician recommends and an insurance man says to never buy. In this respect we have to agree with the insurance man for once. We can't lose anymore subscribers! Avoid Appalachian Diesel at all costs!


In the end the Philadelphia Motors Appalachian Diesel provide decent value for the money. It's not the best car in the Van segment, but it won't disappoint. You could do a lot worse. If this model appeals to you I see no reason to dissuade you from it.