As David LaChance remarked on this 1954 Bond three-wheeler’s license plate, “Definitely shaken and not stirred.” That David LaChance, what a comedian. Russo and Steele will be auctioning off this Mark C at its Monterey auction next week and gave us a preview of it on Hemmings.com. From the auction description:
This incredible 1954 Bond Mark C is a superb example of one of the most rare microcars in America, or anywhere else for that matter. Just 41 Bond MiniCar Mark C cars are known to exist worldwide according to the Bond Owners Club. When new, the Bond was advertised and promoted as ‘The World’s Most Economical Car’ and published claims of 85 – 90 miles per gallon made with a top speed of 50 mph! Back in the day, Grand Prix racing great Sir Stirling Moss wrote favorably of his experience with the Bond MiniCar. Even though optimistically promoted as a four passenger family convertible, the car weighs only 470 pounds due to its aluminum construction. Only the bonnet is fiberglass. This example is complete with top and side curtains and has all relevant literature, including the original owners handbook, original factory engine/service manual, original factory parts catalogue, original showroom literature and the original magazine advertisements as well. Powered by a 197 cc Villiers two stroke motorcycle engine and transmission, parts are still readily available. Among the unique features of this little three wheeler are the motorcycle type kick starter and because the front wheel steers a full 180 degrees from side-to-side, the Bond will spin around and do a complete u-turn on the radius of it’s own wheelbase! And, it can make a 90 degree turn without moving forward too!
See more cars going up for auction at Hemmings.com.