Highlights
- Highly characterful signwritten bus
- Largely original
- Historic vehicle status
- 1,508cc with column shift
The Appeal
Bedford products were once the bedrock of the British commercial vehicle sector. As the basis for everything from delivery cans to ambulances, mini-buses and campers, they touched the lives of everyone on these shores until the 70s, when Ford’s Transit arrived and stole the market.
Here we have a delightfully original Bedford CA that was converted to serve as a commercial mini-bus. With numerous original features and a lovely character, it’s sure to make a charming addition to any collection. If you’ve been looking for a classic restoration project, this could be just the ticket.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1962
- Conversion carried out by Martin Walter Ltd of Folkestone, a specialist in Bedford commercials during the 50s and 60s
- Historic vehicle status: tax and MOT exempt
- 6 owners from new
- Comes with a large file containing MOT history and invoices
- The vendor tells us the vehicle comes with a part independent service history
- Last MOT was in 2017
- MOT history indicates the vehicle went ‘around the clock’ in 2016/17
- Reluctant sale as the vendor no longer has time to complete the project
The Interior
- Red vinyl seat upholstery with contrasting white piping, all appears to be in quite good condition for the age of the vehicle
- Simple dash layout, with column shifter
- The headlining has been removed at some point
- Rear benches provide seating for 6, plus 3 in the front
- All of the internal surfaces and trim elements are heavily patinated, but appear to be present and correct
The Exterior
- Traditional sliding front doors, with ‘barn doors’ at the rear
- Hand painted blue exterior with period signwriting
- Intriguing history hinted at, with the legend “Murals, Heraldry, Illustrations” still visible on the passenger side
- The exterior is nicely weathered, with a genuine and natural patina on display in all areas
- Some areas will require corrective bodywork – there are a number of areas where corrosion is visible and some significant bubbling evident on the rear off-side wheel arch
- Period maroon painted steel wheels with polished hub-caps
- The exterior badging and trim appears to be original, and is well-weathered
- Lovely curved ‘wrap around’ glass still intact and undamaged at the back
- Underneath the vehicle appears to be solid and straight, with the expected coating of surface corrosion in evidence
The Mechanics
- 1,508cc 4-cylinder
- Manual transmission (column shift)
- Manual crank starter
- The vendor tells us that the generator has been replaced
- There is evidently an oil leak from the top of the engine
- We’re assured by the vendor that the van runs and drives well
Summary
There are many things you can fake, but natural patina is not one of them. This delightful little bus wears its history proudly and would make a fantastic restoration project, whether that was for a collector or to serve once again in a commercial capacity. We adore the cheerful styling and practicality of this charming survivor, it truly deserves to find a home where it will be cherished again.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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