Bond Classic Cars for Sale

In 1963, Sharp's Commercials changed its name and Bond Cars Ltd was born, specialising in the production of economical, three wheeled vehicles based upon simple and well tested mechanicals.

When Sharp became Bond

The real story began in 1949 when Sharp's Commercials began production of the Bond Minicar, later to be referred to as the 'Mark A'. It's bodywork was of mainly aluminium construction and was powered by a single cylinder Villiers motorcycle engine of either 197 or 122cc, with no reverse gear. It is interesting to note that the original kick-start unit was still apparent on the Villiers engines. Later in the production phase fibre glass was used in many parts of the body. This lightened the already succesful Bond Minicar and made it popular in the post war years due to its impressive economy figures.

Upgrades and models

Up to 1961, The Bond Minicar was offered in a number of guises including an estate, van and a convertible model with its design changing through this time period along with its power plant. The Bond engine was initially upgraded to a single cylinder 250 cc unit followed by a two cylinder 250 cc unit. Reverse gear was still not available but this was overcome by the front wheel being able to rotate to 90 degrees, allowing the Bond to turn within its own length. On later models, reverse could be engaged by stopping the engine and running it backwards. This was achieved by running the 'dynastart' unit in reverse. The dynastart unit was a starter motor that also operated as a battery charger once the engine was running. The last Bond Minicar, the Mark G variant, was produced in November 1966.

The four wheeled option

1963 saw Bond's first foray into the four wheeled market, with the introduction of the Equipe GT. This was largely based on the Triumph Herald with a Triumph Spitfire engine and some cleverly redesigned body panels that gave the GT a sleeker, more sporting look. This was followed by the GT4S in 1964 which incorporated a bonnet scoop. This model benefitted from a 1296 cc engine upgrade in 1967. The final 4 wheeled vehicle to be released was designed largely by Bond itself. The Bond GT Equipe 2 litre began life in 1967 and was based on the Triumph Vitesse 2 litre engine and chassis, with body panels designed in house at Bond. Bond continued as a motor company until its take-over in 1969 by Reliant. One further vehicle was designed bearing the Bond name; the Bond Bug, which was produced by Reliant between 1970 and 1974. This iconic three wheeler saw the end of Bond Cars Ltd, though they still remain collectible today.