1991 Pinzgauer 6x6 Camper Listed for Sale

A 1991 Steyr-Puch Pinzgauer 718K, converted into a two-berth overland camper, is now for sale. The six-wheel-drive vehicle shows 26,376 miles and is located in South Derbyshire, United Kingdom.

Originally serving as a UK fire engine, the vehicle was later documented in a camper conversion on the True Blue Travellers YouTube channel. Its current powertrain is a 2.4-liter Volkswagen inline-six turbodiesel paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The seller has fitted a larger turbocharger, an upgraded cooling system with a larger radiator, a gearbox cooler, and higher gearing for improved road cruising.

The Camper Conversion

The interior is appointed as a self-contained living space. It features a dinette set, a sofa that converts to a bed, and a kitchenette. Tasteful wooden floors, tables, and cabinetry are installed throughout. A pop-top roof provides additional headroom, and a series of solar panels are mounted on the roof. The vehicle is finished in red with a black interior and comes with its instruction books, a full manual, and two keys.

The drivetrain allows selectable rear, four, or six-wheel drive, with multiple locking differentials for challenging off-road conditions. The seller reportedly believes the indicated mileage of 26,376 to be genuine.

Pinzgauer Design and History

The Steyr-Puch Pinzgauer was developed in Austria during the 1960s as a larger counterpart to the Haflinger. Designed by Erich Ledwinka, it entered production in 1971 in 4x4 (710) and 6x6 (712) versions. Its core design featured a central-tube backbone chassis, swing axles, independent suspension, and portal axles for high ground clearance.

Early models used a 2.5-liter air-cooled inline-four engine producing 89 bhp and 136 lb ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox and a dual-range transfer case. Hydraulic differential locks and selectable front drive were standard. The vehicle found its primary market with military forces worldwide.

A second-generation, diesel-powered model launched in 1986 as the 716 (4x4) and 718 (6x6). Production continued in Graz, Austria, until 2000, after which it moved to England. BAE Systems ended UK manufacturing in 2008 after fulfilling remaining orders.

Military Service and Legacy

The Pinzgauer's main customers were militaries, including those of Britain, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. Its strong design was proven in testing. In a 1974 review for Commercial Motor, Graham Montgomerie reported he could not bog the vehicle down and found its handbrake to be "the most effective I have encountered on any vehicle." He was less impressed with the vague gearshift and high fuel consumption of about 11 mpg.

Most European nations have now sold off their Pinzgauers as military surplus, leading to their popularity as civilian camper conversions. The vehicle's military heritage means spare parts are reportedly not too difficult to find.

The seller is now offering this specific 1991 example, a purpose-built overland vehicle ready for remote travel.