Description
The Bond 500 Racing Car Type C, produced by Bond Cars Ltd. in the 1950s, was a unique three-wheeled racing car designed to take advantage of its lightweight construction and nimble handling. Bond Cars, a British manufacturer best known for its small, economical vehicles, ventured into motorsports with the Type C, creating a car that stood out due to its unconventional design.
The Type C was part of Bond’s Minicar*lineup, which focused on producing affordable, compact vehicles for the post-World War II market. However, the 500 Racing Car Type C was developed with a more competitive edge in mind, specifically targeting the 500 cc racing class. This class of racing was highly popular in the UK during the 1950s, offering an entry-level form of motorsport that was accessible to private racers and smaller manufacturers.
The Bond Type C was powered by a 500 cc single-cylinder engine, which was quite small compared to conventional racing cars, but adequate for the vehicle’s lightweight frame. The body was made from aluminum to minimize weight, helping the car achieve better performance despite its modest power output. The car’s three-wheel design, with two wheels at the front and one at the rear, provided it with a low center of gravity and surprisingly agile handling.
While it was not as fast as the larger racing cars of the era, the Bond 500 Racing Car Type C excelled in its class, thanks to its innovative design and nimbleness on tight circuits. Its simplicity and affordability made it an attractive choice for amateur racers who wanted to compete without breaking the bank.
Though the Bond 500 Type C was never a major force in high-level motorsport, it remains a significant example of post-war ingenuity and the era’s emphasis on lightweight, efficient design. Today, surviving examples are rare and prized by collectors of vintage racing cars, particularly those interested in the unique and quirky three-wheeled designs that Bond became known for.