Highlights
- Very rare vehicle
- Previously restored
- Great condition for its age
The Appeal
Produced by Sharp’s Commercials Ltd, the Bond Minicar was a series of 3-wheeled minicars, aimed at providing the British consumer with a truly economical vehicle. Thanks to its 3-wheel configuration, the Minicar would qualify for a lower tax bracket and would allow motorists to legally operate the vehicle on simply a motorbike license.
Naturally, these microcars proved to be rather popular, but the vehicle seems to have nearly vanished in the modern market, with enthusiasts left searching for tidy, surviving examples. This particular example is one of the few saved from the jaws of age, benefitting from a restoration, courtesy of the previous owner.
The History and Paperwork
- Just 4 previous UK owners
- Previously restored
- Huge collection of Bond magazines
- V5C document present
- Garage stored
This Minicar has been enjoyed by just 4 previous owners over the years, later undergoing a restoration prior to 2008. Since being restored and then acquired by the current keeper, the car enjoyed many a happy outing, returning to a dry garage when not in use.
Included with the vehicle are a huge assortment of spare parts and an assortment of handbooks, parts lists, and guides. Also included is an invoice detailing an engine rebuild and new components, along with the V5C document ready to sign over.
The Interior
- Likely retrimmed interior
- Collapsable roof & soft top
- Great condition
Although hardly an incredibly spacious and lavish cabin, the interior of this Minicar has been very well preserved over the years and looks brilliant for its age. The seat bench shows very few signs of use, as do all controls and trim pieces.
There are of course signs of age to be noted throughout, particularly with painted components and woodwork. Should you wish for a perfect finish, these minor signs of age are rather easily amenable, although they do currently only add to the charm and overall character of this microcar.
Despite its size, the vehicle actually shows off considerable storage space behind the seats. This space is currently used to store additional spare parts like wheels, a steering wheel, and more. This space can also be used to store the side screens when not in use, as they fit rather well directly behind the seat through the use of a bungee cord. The side screens themselves are in fair condition for their age, although do show signs of temporary repair and a slight amount of wear.
The Exterior
- Restored exterior
- Resprayed paintwork
- Excellent condition for its age
- Spare wheels included
As mentioned, this Bond Minicar has been previously restored and re-finished in a fresh coat of red paint. As the vehicle has been enjoyed since, and time has inevitably passed, there are of course minor signs of age and use beginning to peek through.
Perhaps most notable of all is a patch on the rear bumper, and the pictured area in between the bonnet and body panel. Fortunately, if a perfect finish is desired, this is certainly one of the easier vehicles to respray and refinish due to its size and materials.
Despite any noticeable defects, very few vehicles come close to the styling of the Bond Minicar, ensuring this quirky vehicle will continue to gain the attention of curious onlookers wherever it may venture.
The Mechanics
- 197CC single cylinder
- 2-stroke
- 3-speed manual
- Previous engine rebuild
- Running and ready for the new owner
This Minicar benefits from a previous engine rebuild and is noted to have been performing without fault prior to being retired to the garage as Covid began to spread. Fortunately, these microcars are notoriously simple to maintain, and the current owner will ensure that the vehicle is indeed returned to full working order prior to collection.
Summary
Presented today is a fantastic opportunity to own a rare piece of British motoring history, in the form of this Mark C Bond Minicar. The vehicle has been restored by a previous owner, and would make the perfect addition to a quirky classic collection, or simply a fun weekend toy to take to shows.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
