Paige Tanager VL
The Paige Tanager was introduced in 1984. Among the first wave of the novel MPV/Minivan segment, the Tanager was uniquely global, exported mostly unchanged across Paige’s many markets. Befitting its global aim, the first generation Tanager was smaller than its primary American rival and available in only one wheelbase and length, with dimensions more similar to its primary European competition. 5, 7, and 8 passenger layouts were available.
The formula was simple: the powertrains, the basic structure, and front suspension from FWD TURBOL stablemates were modified into a tall, versatile van with the driving manners more like a car than a van. With both passenger van and cargo van applications envisioned from the start, a simple rear dead axle was utilized to maintain a flat load floor and decent load capacity.
The most common engine in export markets was the NL4-2 2.2. An oversquare SOHC I4 in use since the late 1960s in a wide variety of applications, the NL4 family was the backbone of TURBOL Corporation’s European operations. It was increased in maximum capacity to 2.2 liters in the late 1970s for more torque in larger vehicles. The evergreen NL4 soldiered on through the 1980s as proven, reliable, and economical propulsion.
This 1986 example is a VL, basic to mid-level passenger trim depending on market. Standard features included a cassette radio, rear defroster and wiper, venting rear passenger windows, and a small smattering of chrome trim.
