Sandman owners often adorned their vehicle – an iconic symbol of the 1970s – with airbrushed graphics, fluffy dice and shagpile carpet. 

While the Aussie carmaker hasn’t revived the iconic panel van, its ute and sportswagon models are predicted to get hearts pumping.

For those yearning for a symbol of the heady days of the 1970s surf wagon, today’s Sandman will come complete with modern-day luxuries, including 20-inch gloss black wheels and black fender vents.

Inside there’ll be decals and enhancements to the cabin including contrasting stitching on the dash, sunshades and Sandman-branded floor mats.

Colours will be restricted to just three choices – Heron White, Nitrate Silver and Phantom Black – but the truly dedicated might get their modern-day Sandman airbrushed to their liking.

Those wanting a trip down memory lane before the official release of the 2015 Sandman are being invited to check out the Bathurst Van Nationals at the Bathurst Showground this Easter long weekend.

While Friday and Saturday’s events will only be open to competitors, the general public are welcome on Sunday to check out more than 250 vans expected to attend.

Organiser Russell Slocombe said many passionate van owners have travelled from across the country to attend.

“A lot of us have been around since then [the 1970s] and have kept our vans and enthusiasm,” he said.

“There will be hot rod panel vans from the 1920s right through to modern transit vans, and kombi vans will also be accepted.

“It’s a blast from the past – you won’t see this again.”

Mr Slocombe said people will also be able to check out a number of hot rods, sedans, utes and classics.

“It’s amazing how much interest in the event we’ve had. There’s entrants from every state except from the NT, but who knows what will turn up on the weekend,” he said.

Public entry to the Sunday showing is $5 and the show will kick off at 9am.

Visit bathurstvannationals.com.