• The 1972 Econoline Van was marketed as America's Number One van. It was in its 12th year of production. Features included a Twin I-Beam front suspension, compact size, and large payload capacity. This was the first year Ford offered a gliding side door as an option. The Econoline was also available in a van camper conversion.
  
  

Models

• The Ford Econoline was available in van, Super Van, Parcel Van, and camper conversion models. The Econoline van was a compact van, with 8.5 feet of clear floor space behind the driver's seat; the Super Van offered over 10 feet of cargo space. The Econoline came in a variety of window and seating configurations.
  
  

Engineering

• The 1972 Ford Econoline had a wide wheel stance for greater durability and smoother ride quality. The Econoline was designed to be maneuverable in city traffic.
  
  Ford advertised large cargo capacities, with payloads up to 4,285 lbs. The engine and hood design allowed an owner to easily check the van's oil, water level, and battery.
  
  A new feature for 1972 was the gliding side door. Swinging side doors were also available.
  
  

Camper Conversion

• Ford offered a camper conversion package, which offered sleeping space for up to six people. These vans could be outfitted with a variety of interiors. Econolines with the camper conversion package retained the same engineering advantages as the work vans in this series.