Hubbry Logo
Bond EquipeBond EquipeMain
Open search
Bond Equipe
Community hub
Bond Equipe
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Bond Equipe
Bond Equipe
Bond Equipe
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Bond Equipe
Bond Equipe 2-Litre Saloon
Overview
ManufacturerBond Cars Ltd
Production1963-1970
4,389 made[1]
AssemblyUnited Kingdom: Preston, England
Body and chassis
ClassSports car (S)
Body style2-door saloon
2-door convertible
Powertrain
EngineTriumph 1147, 1296 or 1998 cc
Transmission4-speed manual
optional overdrive on 2 litre
Dimensions
Wheelbase93 in (2,362 mm)[2]
Length160 in (4,064 mm)[2]
Width60 in (1,524 mm)[2]

The Bond Equipe is an English 2+2 sports car, manufactured by Bond Cars Ltd from 1963 to 1970. It was the first 4-wheeled vehicle from Bond Cars.

History

[edit]

The original Equipe, the GT 2+2 (the 2+2 was retrospectively added to the name when the later GT4S was announced in 1964), was based on the Triumph Herald chassis with a fastback fibreglass body and also utilised further Triumph parts including the Herald windscreen/scuttle assembly and doors, together with a Spitfire engine. The September 1964 GT4S model saw revisions to the body with twin headlights and an opening rear boot. It was powered by the same, mildly tuned (63 bhp, later increased to 67 bhp), 1147 cc Standard SC engine used in the Triumph Spitfire.

The engine was switched to the 75 bhp (56 kW) 1296 cc version in April 1967, just one month after the Spitfire itself had undergone the same upgrade,[3] the revised model being identified as the GT4S 1300.[4] An increase in claimed output of 12% resulted.[4] At the same time the front disc brakes were enlarged and the design of the rear suspension (one component not carried over unmodified from the Triumph Spitfire) received "attention".[4]

The GT4S was joined by the 2-litre GT with a larger smoother body directly before the London Motor Show in October 1967.[5] This model was based on the similar Triumph Vitesse chassis and used its 1998 cc 95 bhp (71 kW) six-cylinder engine. The 2-litre GT was available as a closed coupé and, later, as a convertible. The car was capable of 100 mph (161 km/h) with respectable acceleration. Horsepower and suspension improvements were made in line with Triumph's Mark 2 upgrade of the Vitesse in Autumn 1968, and the convertible was introduced at the same time.

Production

[edit]
  • Bond Equipe GT 2+2: April 1963 - October 1964; 451 (including 7 known pre-production cars)
  • Bond Equipe GT 4S: September 1964 - January 1967; 1934
  • Bond Equipe GT 4S 1300: February 1967 - August 1970; 571
  • Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark I Saloon (incl. the 2 litre convertible prototype): August 1967 - September 1968; 591[6]
  • Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark II Saloon and Convertible: September 1968 - October 1970; 841[6]

Total Equipe Production = 4389 (including one known Mk.3 prototype made by Reliant Motor Co. at Tamworth)[7]

Production finished at the end of July 1970 when Reliant, which had acquired Bond in February 1969, closed the factory. The last remaining vehicles were finally completed by the end of October 1970 with chassis no. V/10/5431 being the last Equipe 2 Litre Mark II Saloon produced.

  • Bond Equipe GT 2+2
    Bond Equipe GT 2+2
  • Bond Equipe GT 4S
    Bond Equipe GT 4S
  • Bond Equipe 2-Litre Saloon
    Bond Equipe 2-Litre Saloon
  • Bond Equipe 2-Litre Convertible
    Bond Equipe 2-Litre Convertible

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Bond Equipe

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Bond Equipe is a 2+2 sports coupé manufactured by Bond Cars Ltd of , , from 1963 to 1970. It marked the company's transition from producing three-wheeled Minicars—such as the original 1949 —to four-wheeled vehicles, utilizing a glassfibre body built on the mechanical platform of the saloon. Introduced at the 1963 Earls Court Motor Show as the Equipe GT 2+2, the initial model featured a 1,147 cc inline-four engine from the Triumph Spitfire, twin SU carburettors, front disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent suspension, achieving a top speed of around 90 mph. Subsequent variants included the GT4S from 1964 with a four-headlamp front end and the original 1,147 cc engine; the GT4S 1300 from 1967 with a 1,296 cc engine producing 76 hp; the 2-Litre model introduced in 1967, powered by a 1,998 cc straight-six from the Triumph Vitesse producing 95 hp (later up to 104 hp) and 0-60 mph in 11.5 seconds; and a limited convertible version of the 2-Litre from 1968. Approximately 4,389 units were produced across all models, sold through Standard-Triumph dealerships with a full 12-month warranty, though the car was not exported to the United States. The Equipe's design emphasized practicality for a British GT, incorporating Herald doors and scuttle for cost efficiency, while its sleek styling and forward-tilting front end distinguished it from mainstream saloons. Production ended in 1970 following Bond's acquisition by Reliant Motor Company in 1969, after which the firm shifted focus to other models like the . Today, the Equipe is valued by collectors for its rarity, Triumph parts compatibility, and representation of innovative British motoring in the .

Company Background

Bond Cars Ltd Origins

Bond Cars Ltd originated in 1949 when aeronautical engineer Lawrence "Lawrie" Bond, leveraging his wartime experience with , designed a lightweight three-wheeled vehicle known as the . The design was initially produced by Sharp's Commercials Ltd, a Preston-based firm founded in 1922, which Bond partnered with for manufacturing after developing the prototype in his workshop. Bond's early ventures also included small-scale production of motorcycles, such as the 1949 Bond Minibyke, and precision components, capitalizing on post-war demand for affordable transport solutions. The was launched that same year as an economical , specifically engineered to qualify for lower purchase tax rates applied to vehicles under 8 cwt in post-World War II Britain, thereby avoiding the steeper levies on four-wheeled cars. Priced under £200, the Mark A model featured a 122 cc Villiers , an body, and open-top design for basic urban mobility, achieving of around 80 while seating two adults. Its simplicity and low running costs appealed to budget-conscious buyers, marking the start of Bond's focus on innovative, accessible vehicles. Throughout the and into the early , the Minicar lineup evolved progressively from Mark A to Mark G, incorporating refinements like enclosed bodies, improved suspension, and engine upgrades to 250 cc or twin-cylinder configurations for better and comfort. These iterations emphasized unwavering affordability—typically under £400—and exceptional fuel economy, with variants such as the Mark C saloon and Mark G estate addressing family needs without compromising the core three-wheeled efficiency. By 1963, cumulative production had reached approximately 21,000 units, establishing a robust market presence and generating substantial revenue through domestic and export markets. Key milestones included the 1958 expansion to a dedicated 100,000 sq ft factory in Preston for diversified production, including scooters, which bolstered operational scale. In 1963, formally relocated to enhanced facilities at Ribbleton Lane and India Mill in Preston, renaming the entity Bond Cars Ltd to reflect the prominence of Bond's designs and the financial growth from three-wheeler success, which paved the way for strategic diversification. This transition positioned the company for broader automotive ambitions while honoring its roots in economical, lightweight engineering.

Transition to Four-Wheeled Production

In the early 1960s, Bond Cars Ltd faced declining demand for its three-wheeled Minicars as improved economy cars, such as the BMC Mini, offered greater practicality and space at competitive prices. This shift was exacerbated by regulatory changes in the UK, including the April 1962 reduction of purchase tax on four-wheeled vehicles from 55% to 45%, followed by a further cut to 25% in November 1962, which eroded the tax, excise duty, and insurance advantages that had previously favored three-wheelers. These pressures prompted the company to pivot toward more conventional four-wheeled designs to remain viable in an evolving market. Lawrie Bond, the company's founder and chief engineer, envisioned developing a lightweight to enter the burgeoning 2+2 segment, with a focus on export markets beyond the UK's niche for microcars. Building on the post-war success of the Minicars, which had capitalized on austerity-driven demand for economical transport, Bond sought to leverage his expertise in construction and efficient engineering for a broader appeal. This strategic direction marked a departure from three-wheeled specialization, aiming for vehicles that combined sporty performance with everyday usability. To achieve cost efficiency and proven reliability, Bond Cars secured a three-year licensing agreement with Standard-Triumph in 1962-1963, acquiring key mechanical components from the , including the double-wishbone , engines, scuttle assembly, windscreen, and doors. This integration minimized development risks and production expenses by utilizing an established platform, allowing Bond to concentrate on bespoke fiberglass bodywork. Early prototyping efforts revealed significant challenges in adapting Bond's three-wheeler knowledge to four-wheeled dynamics, particularly in achieving balanced stability, refined handling, and without compromising the lightweight ethos. Engineers encountered issues with suspension tuning and overall vehicle poise, necessitating iterative testing to transition from the agile but unstable traits of three-wheel designs to the more demanding requirements of four-wheel layouts.

Development and Design

Initial Concept and Prototyping

In 1962, Bond Cars Ltd conceptualized the Equipe as a 2+2 GT , utilizing a body to achieve low production costs and favorable while drawing stylistic inspiration from Italian designs such as those of Ferrari, yet incorporating British components for practicality and accessibility. Styling influences included work by external designer Trevor Fiore. The first GT 2+2 prototype was completed in mid-1963, integrating a 1,147 cc engine from the and featuring a distinctive with single headlights. Seven vehicles were built. Styling for the prototype was handled by Bond's in-house team under the direction of Lawrie Bond, emphasizing curvaceous lines, a roofline for enhanced airflow, and provisions for pop-up headlights in subsequent iterations to refine the aesthetic appeal. During road trials in 1963, the focus was on improving handling compared to Bond's models, with adaptations to the front-independent suspension derived from the to ensure better stability and ride quality.

Engineering Features and Influences

The Bond Equipe's core platform was derived from the 948 and 1200 , modified for mounting the body while retaining the standard . This adaptation retained the Herald's inherent rack-and-pinion system for precise handling and front disc brakes for improved stopping power over the original saloon's drum setup. The vehicle's body was constructed using hand-laid panels for the roof, rear section, and bonnet, mounted on the Herald's floorpan and bulkhead, which contributed to significant weight savings—typically around 1,500 to 1,700 pounds curb weight—while offering inherent corrosion resistance and facilitating easier repairs compared to -bodied contemporaries. This construction method drew on established British expertise in composite materials, particularly from the car sector. Early models (GT 2+2 and GT4S) featured all-around independent suspension with coil springs at the front and a transverse leaf spring at the rear on the modified Herald chassis, providing a balance of ride comfort and sporty responsiveness and enhancing the Equipe's grand touring capabilities over the base Herald's more basic configuration. Later 2-Litre models used a chassis with independent suspension all around. Among the innovations, an optional overdrive transmission was available on later models to improve highway cruising without excessive engine revs. Initial testing confirmed the viability of these choices, demonstrating adequate for production.

Model Variants

GT 2+2

The Bond Equipe GT 2+2 was launched in October 1963 at Motor Show, marking Bond Cars Ltd's entry into four-wheeled production as its first such vehicle. Priced at £822, it was positioned as an affordable family GT car, broadening Bond's portfolio beyond three-wheelers. This debut model featured a 1147cc inline-four engine sourced from the , delivering 63 at 5750 rpm and 67 lb ft of at rpm. It was paired with a four-speed , also from Triumph, driving the rear wheels via the adapted for sports use. The body was a fixed-roof constructed from glassfibre, with a sleek design and two round headlights, offering practical seating for four in a compact package. Performance emphasized agile handling rather than raw speed, with a top speed of 90 mph and 0-60 mph acceleration in 17.6 seconds, aided by the fibreglass and derived from the Triumph setup. The model's nimble road manners suited British backroads, prioritizing cornering poise over high-power output. A total of 451 units were produced from 1963 to 1964, including seven pre-production examples, establishing the GT 2+2 as a low-volume that validated the platform for subsequent developments like the GT4S.

GT4S

The Bond Equipe GT4S, introduced in 1964, represented a mid-1960s evolution of the Equipe lineup, serving as an update to the original GT model with key aesthetic refinements including twin rectangular headlights in a four-lamp setup, a revised front grille drawing inspiration from the Triumph 2000's snout-like nose, and enhanced interior trim featuring a Vitesse dashboard, Spitfire instrumentation, and bucket seats for improved comfort. Building on the GT's foundational fiberglass construction and Triumph-derived chassis, the GT4S featured a 1147 cc engine from the , tuned to produce 67 and 67 lb-ft of for superior everyday drivability. Primarily offered as a fixed-head with seating, the GT4S incorporated subtle aerodynamic modifications such as a Kamm tail design and a raised rear section for added headroom and an opening boot lid, contributing to a top speed of around 91 mph. Targeted primarily at UK buyers and select export markets through the Triumph dealer network, the GT4S emphasized practicality and style for enthusiasts, with a total of 1,934 units produced from 1964 through 1967.

GT4S 1300

The Bond Equipe GT4S 1300 was introduced in February 1967 as an update to the existing GT4S model, incorporating the newly available 1296 cc inline-four engine from the Mk III. This engine, with twin carburettors and normal aspiration, produced 75 at around 6,000 rpm, maintaining the rear-wheel-drive layout and four-speed manual transmission of its predecessor while aligning with contemporary Triumph components for improved parts availability. The GT4S 1300 retained the fibreglass body styling and overall mechanical architecture of the GT4S, including the Triumph Herald-derived , with only minor revisions such as the addition of "1300" badges on the front wings to denote the upgrade. No significant mechanical overhauls were made, preserving the disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear, though the larger displacement contributed to slightly enhanced low-end compared to the prior 1147 cc version. Performance remained brisk for a , achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 13 seconds and a top speed near 100 mph, closely mirroring the capabilities of the donor Spitfire while accommodating the Equipe's additional weight and 2+2 seating. Production of the GT4S 1300 totaled around 570 units, built from through August 1970 at Bond's facility. This run overlapped with the debut of the more powerful 2-litre Equipe variants in late , positioning the 1300 as a budget-friendly entry in the lineup for buyers seeking the model's distinctive styling without the higher cost of the six-cylinder engines.

2-Litre Models

The Bond Equipe 2-litre models represented the culmination of the Equipe lineup, introduced in August 1967 as a more powerful built on the chassis and utilizing its 1998 cc . This engine initially delivered 95 in the Mark I variant, providing enhanced performance over preceding models while retaining the fiberglass body styling evolved from the earlier GT4S. The design emphasized a 2+2 seating configuration suitable for longer journeys, with a focus on improved refinement and road manners. The Mark I, produced from August 1967 to September 1968, was offered exclusively as a fixed-head coupé, with a total of 591 units built. It featured the standard 95 engine and basic Vitesse suspension, positioning it as an accessible entry into six-cylinder performance motoring. Standard equipment included a wood-rimmed Les Leston , while options such as Laycock-de-Normanville overdrive and upgraded brakes were available to enhance drivability. In September 1968, the Mark II superseded the Mark I, continuing production until October 1970 with 841 units manufactured, including both saloon and the newly introduced body styles. This variant incorporated upgrades from the Mark II, including a revised output of 104 and lower-wishbone rear suspension for better handling and stability. The , with its flush-folding hood, broadened the model's appeal to open-top enthusiasts, while retaining the overdrive option and improved braking system. Performance across both marks enabled a top speed of approximately 100 mph and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 11 seconds, establishing the 2-litre Equipe as a capable competitive with contemporaries in its class. These figures, combined with the optional overdrive for relaxed highway cruising, underscored its dual role as both a spirited and a practical 2+2.

Technical Specifications

Chassis and Body

The Bond Equipe employed a modified derived from the , utilizing a separate structure that provided a robust foundation for the sports car's lightweight design. This incorporated elements such as the Herald's floorpan, bulkhead, and suspension components. The remained consistent at 91.5 inches (2,324 mm) across all variants, ensuring balanced proportions and agile handling characteristics. The body construction featured hand-built panels combined with elements, such as the Herald's doors and scuttle, to create a hybrid structure that minimized weight while maintaining structural integrity. This approach allowed for a sleek profile with a Kamm tail in models like the GT4S, enhancing and contributing to the car's nimble road manners. The design accommodated seating, with early GT variants providing access to the luggage compartment through folding rear seats, while later models introduced an external lid for improved practicality. weights varied by variant, ranging from about 1,630 pounds (740 kg) for the initial GT to 2,000 pounds (910 kg) in the 2-Litre models, owing to differences in body reinforcements and components.

Engine and Performance

The Bond Equipe series employed a range of overhead-valve engines, all equipped with twin SU carburettors for reliable, straightforward performance. Early GT 2+2 models featured a 1147 cc inline-four producing 63 to 67 , derived from the . Subsequent GT4S variants upgraded to the 1296 cc inline-four from the , yielding 70 to 75 for enhanced responsiveness. The 2-litre models, introduced in 1967, utilized the 1998 cc inline-six from the , initially delivering 95 and later tuned to 104 in Mk II versions, marking a shift to smoother six-cylinder operation while maintaining the series' accessible power delivery. Transmission options centered on a standard 4-speed manual gearbox, which provided precise shifts suited to the car's sporting intent. On 2-litre models, an optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive was available, effectively adding a taller fifth gear for improved highway efficiency and reduced engine revs at cruising speeds. Performance scaled with engine displacement: the initial 1147 cc unit achieved a top speed of around 90 mph and 0-60 mph in approximately 17 seconds, while the 1296 cc version reached 98 mph. The 2-litre inline-six elevated capabilities to 102 mph top speed and 0-60 mph in 11.5 seconds, offering brisk acceleration for overtaking. Fuel economy typically ranged from 25 to 30 mpg, balancing spirited driving with practical economy. Braking was handled by 9.5-inch front disc brakes paired with 10-inch rear , delivering progressive adequate for the Equipe's performance envelope and era. The driving experience emphasized neutral steering and composed handling on twisty roads, thanks to the car's balanced , though early models drew criticism for rear-end lightness under hard cornering loads due to the adopted Triumph suspension setup. Later iterations addressed this with revised rear components for greater stability without compromising the Equipe's agile character.

Dimensions and Capacities

The Bond Equipe models featured compact dimensions typical of British sports cars, measuring 160 inches in , 60 inches in width, and 53 inches in . The front and rear track widths were both 48 inches, contributing to a balanced stance on the Triumph Herald-derived . The interior accommodated 2+2 seating, with ample space for two adults in the front but limited rear accommodation primarily suited for children due to the sloping roofline and scant headroom. Later variants like the GT4S addressed this partially by raising the tail section by 3 inches, providing modestly improved rear headroom while maintaining the overall compact footprint. Key capacities included a holding approximately 12 U.S. gallons and an oil capacity of about 5 quarts (including filter), aligned with the Triumph-sourced powertrains. Tires were typically sized 165/80R13. Variant differences were minor in terms of size, though 2-litre models were marginally heavier at approximately 2,015 pounds curb weight due to added reinforcements for the six-cylinder , compared to about 1,625 pounds for smaller-engined versions. Convertible variants stood slightly taller at around 54 inches to accommodate the folding roof mechanism.

Production and Reception

Manufacturing Timeline

The Bond Equipe entered production in June 1963 at Bond Cars Ltd's facility on Ribbleton Lane in Preston, Lancashire, transitioning the company from its established three-wheeler manufacturing lines to four-wheeled sports cars. The initial GT 2+2 model utilized a modified Triumph Herald chassis with a fibreglass body hand-assembled on site, while body panels were moulded in-house at the adjacent India Mill. This setup allowed for flexible, low-volume production leveraging Bond's expertise in fibreglass construction from earlier Minicar models. In September 1964, the updated GT4S variant was introduced, featuring refinements like four headlamps and improved interior space, continuing assembly at the expanded Preston works. Production of the GT4S persisted through 1967, when February saw the launch of the 1300cc-engined GT4S and August the 2-Litre model based on the platform. The following year, in 1968, Bond added a option to the 2-Litre lineup, with tooling adapted for the open-top body style while maintaining hand-assembly processes at Preston. Bond Cars Ltd was acquired by Reliant Motor Company in February 1969, primarily to access Bond's dealership network for Triumph vehicles. Under Reliant's ownership, the Preston factory implemented enhanced quality controls for the ongoing Equipe assembly and developed a prototype Mk.3 variant, though the focus shifted toward Reliant's projects. Production of the Equipe concluded in October 1970 amid Reliant's restructuring, leading to the closure of the Preston facilities by the end of that year.

Sales and Market Impact

The Bond Equipe saw total production of 4,389 units across all variants between 1963 and 1970, with the GT4S emerging as the bestseller at 1,934 units. Sales were concentrated primarily in the UK, where the car targeted buyers seeking an affordable 2+2 GT coupe, initially priced at around £822 in 1963 and rising to approximately £685 plus tax for the GT4S by 1964; it competed directly with established models like the Triumph Spitfire and MG B in the compact sports car segment. Limited exports occurred through dealer networks to markets including Australia and Europe, though volumes remained modest outside the domestic market. Contemporary reviews highlighted the Equipe's stylish body and value proposition, with commentators praising its elegant lines and practical seating as a refreshing alternative to mainstream British sports cars, while noting that early underpowered variants lagged in performance against competitors. Driving impressions emphasized its enjoyable handling derived from the Triumph chassis, though the overall reception was tempered by perceptions of it as a derivative yet characterful option. Commercial challenges stemmed from the model's low-volume output, which limited widespread dealer support and parts availability, exacerbating competition from higher-volume rivals during the mid-1960s economic pressures on the British motor industry.

Legacy

Collectibility and Restoration

The Bond Equipe's collectibility stems from its limited production run and unique fiberglass construction on a Triumph Herald chassis, with 4,389 units built between 1963 and 1970 across its variants. In the , as of Q1 2025, 81 examples are licensed for road use and 77 are SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), totaling 158 registered vehicles per DVLA data, representing a small fraction of original output and underscoring their rarity on the global enthusiast scene, where additional survivors exist but exact worldwide figures are elusive due to scattered ownership. The Bond Owners' Club, founded in 1951, provides robust support for Equipe owners through its monthly magazine Bond Info, technical advice, parts sourcing information, and dedicated rallies such as the annual Easter Doug Ferreira Memorial and events, fostering a dedicated that aids preservation efforts. Market values for well-maintained Equipe models as of late 2025 typically range from £4,000 to £8,000 for coupes in good driving condition, as evidenced by recent sales and listings including a 1963 example sold for £4,500 in July 2025, a 1965 GT4S listed at £6,750 in October 2025, and a 1970 model at £7,495 in October 2025. variants command higher premiums due to their —only 840 were produced—often reaching £15,000–£20,000 or more for restored examples, driven by the model's rarity and appeal to Triumph enthusiasts, though prices can vary based on originality and mechanical integrity. Restoration of Bond Equipes focuses on addressing age-related wear while leveraging the availability of Triumph-sourced components for engines, transmissions, and suspension, as the cars share mechanicals with Herald, Spitfire, and Vitesse models. Common challenges include cracks in the body panels from impacts or flexing, which require specialized repairs, and sourcing period-correct Triumph parts like carburetors or differentials, though kits and reproductions are obtainable through Triumph specialists and club networks. Enthusiast events, including Bond Owners' Club rallies, often feature restored cars and provide opportunities for owners to share restoration techniques and parts swaps. Despite the corrosion-resistant fiberglass exterior, underlying issues persist such as rusted chassis frames and bulkheads exposed to moisture over decades, often necessitating full and during rebuilds. Electrical , including faulty wiring harnesses and intermittent components like lights or overdrive solenoids, are another frequent hurdle, compounded by the age of Lucas systems original to the Triumph underpinnings. These challenges make comprehensive restorations time-intensive, but the resulting vehicles offer rewarding drivability for collectors.

Historical Significance

The Bond Equipe marked a pivotal transition in the history of Bond Cars Ltd., representing the company's shift away from its longstanding dominance in toward four-wheeled sports cars. Launched in 1963 as the first four-wheeled model from the firm, the Equipe utilized the chassis and components of the , signaling the end of the three-wheeler Minicar era that had defined Bond since 1949. This change paved the way for the eventual integration with Reliant Motor Company, which acquired Bond in 1969 amid financial pressures, leading to the closure of the Preston factories by December 1970. The Equipe 2-Litre variant, produced from 1967 to 1970, stood as the last car badged under the Bond name before the company's operational shutdown, after which Reliant continued limited production of earlier models until 1974. In the broader context of the British automotive industry, the Equipe exemplified the era's trend toward niche sports cars built on donor mechanicals from established manufacturers, particularly leveraging Triumph parts such as the Herald chassis, scuttle, windscreen, , and Spitfire engines for affordability and reliability. This approach allowed Bond to enter the competitive GT market without the costs of full in-house development, influencing the rise of later builders who adopted similar strategies of combining bodies with mass-produced underpinnings to create accessible performance vehicles. Sold through Standard-Triumph dealerships, the Equipe's production of 4,389 units across variants highlighted its role in sustaining small-scale British specialist manufacturing during a period of economic consolidation. The Equipe's legacy includes significant advancements in the application of for production s, drawing on Bond's parent company Sharp’s Commercials' expertise to produce , corrosion-resistant bodies that enhanced performance and reduced expenses. This contributed to a philosophy of design that resonated in subsequent British developments, emphasizing efficiency and agility over heavy construction. As a product of British engineering ingenuity, the Equipe symbolized the innovative spirit of small firms adapting wartime materials like —initially used in Bond's three-wheelers—to civilian automotive challenges. Culturally, the Equipe garnered attention in period media for its sleek, Ferrari-like styling, often leading to mistaken identities that underscored its aspirational appeal, and it appeared in contemporary publications such as the Ladybird Book of Cars, embedding it in the public's imagination of motoring. While not a starring in major films, its minor cameos in British automotive features reinforced its status as an emblem of the era's optimistic, resourceful .

References

  1. https://www.aronline.co.uk/cars/bond/equipe/the-cars-bond-equipe/
  2. https://www.bondownersclub.co.uk/bond-company-history
  3. https://www.hemmings.com/stories/bond-equipe/
  4. https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com/car_info_bond_equipe.htm
  5. https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/cars/1976635/british-classic-bond-minicar-three-wheeler-equipe
  6. https://www.aronline.co.uk/the-great-motor-men/lawrie-bond/
  7. https://www.trussty.com/2019/11/its-name-was-bond-classic-brit.html
  8. http://www.microcarmuseum.com/tour/bond-mk-a.html
  9. https://www.bbc.co.uk/insideout/content/articles/2009/01/06/north_west_bond_cars_s15_w1_feature.shtml
  10. http://colinchapmanmuseum.co.uk/?page_id=3244
  11. http://www.simoncars.co.uk/bond/equipe1.html
  12. https://www.bondownersclub.co.uk/equipe
  13. https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/bond/gt-2plus2gt4sequipe/
  14. https://www.tssc.org.uk/tssc/cars_final.asp?model_ID=44
  15. http://classiccarsforsale.squarespace.com/reviews/classic-bond-reviews-equipe
  16. https://bondcars.net/Equipe%20GT4S.htm
  17. https://www.tssc.org.uk/tssc/cars_final.asp?model_ID=45
  18. https://www.tssc.org.uk/tssc/cars_final.asp?model_ID=46
  19. https://www.autosnout.com/0-100kph-Time/Triumph-Spitfire-Mk-3-1967/920
  20. https://www.classicandsportscar.com/guides/classic-cars-a-to-z/bond-equipe-2-litre-0
  21. https://bondcars.net/Equipe%202%20Litre.htm
  22. https://www.carfolio.com/bond-equipe-gt-2-litre-51282
  23. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1964/78485/bond_equipe_gt.html
  24. https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1965/78515/bond_equipe_gt_4s.html
  25. https://www.carfolio.com/bond-equipe-53691
  26. https://fastestlaps.com/models/bond-equipe-1-3
  27. https://www.classiccarwiki.com/cars/bond-equipe-2-litre-gt/
  28. https://www.tssc.org.uk/tssc/cars_final.asp?model_ID=47
  29. https://www.classiccarsforsale.co.uk/reviews/classic-bond-reviews-equipe
  30. https://www.carfolio.com/bond-equipe-1300-51909
  31. https://triumphspitfire.com/reference-pages/lubrication-specifications/
  32. https://www.longstonetyres.co.uk/classic-car-tyres/bond/equipe-gt4s-1300.html
  33. https://www.carfolio.com/bond-equipe-gt4s-51271
  34. https://zeperfs.com/en/fiche8391-bond-equipe-2l-convertible-od.htm
  35. https://classicsworld.co.uk/guides/a-brief-history-of-reliant/
  36. https://classiccarsforsale.co.uk/reviews/classic-bond-reviews-equipe
  37. https://www.howmanyleft.co.uk/vehicle/bond_equipe
  38. https://www.bondownersclub.co.uk/
  39. https://www.glenmarch.com/cars/results?make=59&model=&auction_house_id=&auction_location=&year_start=&year_end=&low_price=&high_price=&auction_id=&fromDate=&toDate=&keywords=&show_unsold_cars=0&show_unsold_cars=1
  40. https://auctions.hampsonauctions.com/auction/lot/lot-82---1963-bond-equipe/?lot=2418&sd=1
  41. https://www.carandclassic.com/l/C1960412
  42. https://www.carandclassic.com/l/C1897649
  43. https://canleyclassics.com/technical-archive/production-figures
  44. https://bringatrailer.com/2008/08/10/rare-fiberglass-coupe-bond-equipe-gt4s/
  45. https://www.clubtriumph.co.uk/forums/topic/9075-bond-gt4s-restoration/
  46. https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread/220134/unexpected-ebay-win?page=3
  47. https://www.facebook.com/groups/127519529899/posts/10161017272199900/
  48. https://silodrome.com/reliant-bond-equipe-prototype/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.