the mystery machine

Ah, the Mystery Machine: the iconic van from Scooby-Doo that’s more about ghost hunting than horsepower. In reality, it's typically depicted as a groovy 1960s-style van, often based on a Ford Econoline or similar model. Specs are a bit hazy since it’s cartoon legend, but you can imagine a modest V8 under the hood, with enough room to pack a meddling kids' gang and a talking Great Dane.

While you won’t find one cruising down Australian highways, enthusiasts sometimes customize vintage vans to mimic its psychedelic paint job. Prices for such classic vans vary wildly, from $15,000 for a fixer-upper to north of $50,000 for a fully restored replica. Check out Tradingpost or CarShowroom for vintage van listings if you’re keen.

For actual ghostbusting, though, you might want a bit more than a paint job and a shaggy companion.