Bond 875
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The Bond 875 was a small three-wheeler motor car, made by Bond Cars Ltd in Preston, United Kingdom from 1965-70. There was also a van version from 1967, known as the Ranger.
Announced in 1963, the 875 used a four-cylinder 875 cc four-stroke engine from the Rootes group. Crucially for the dynamics of the vehicle, this was rear-mounted, unlike in most other British three-wheelers of the era. It was the same basic engine as used in the Hillman Imp, but thanks to the fact that the 875 had a fibreglass body along with aluminium doors, and weighed less than 400 kg, the engine was the low compression version (compression ratio 8:1) as used in the commercial versions of the Imp – the Hillman Husky and Commer Imp van. This engine was able to run on "2-star" low-octane petrol, which was cheaper than varieties used by larger and more highly tuned engines.
The car's light weight enabled it to qualify for motorcycle road tax rates, and be driven on a motorcycle licence.
Racing driver John Surtees unofficially broke the saloon car lap record at Brands Hatch, managing to attain 100mph.
[edit] Development
A van version, the Ranger, was introduced in 1967.
Styling changes, revised seats, and a larger bonnet opening heralded the "Mark II" of 1968.
[edit] Specification and performance
- Capacity: 875 cc
- Weight: < 400 kg
- 0-60 mph: 16 seconds (car), 14 seconds (van)
- Top speed: 80 mph (car), 95 mph (van)
- Fuel economy: 50-55 mpg
- Tyres: Michelin X radial
- Price new: £500
