Description
The Bond Equipe GT4S 1300 Convertible represents one of the more stylish and rare offerings from Bond Cars Ltd, produced during the latter half of the 1960s. Building on the foundation laid by the earlier GT4S models, the 1300 Convertible combined the mechanical reliability of Triumph components with Bond’s flair for lightweight, fiberglass-bodied design. Introduced around 1967, this version was powered by the 1296cc inline-four engine from the Triumph Spitfire Mk3, which provided improved performance, better torque delivery, and smoother operation compared to its predecessors. With this engine, the car delivered lively performance well-suited to the open road, especially when combined with the updated suspension and chassis refinements carried over from earlier GT4S developments.
What made the 1300 Convertible particularly special was its open-top body style, a rarity in the Bond Equipe lineup. Most Equipes were fixed-head coupes, so the arrival of a full convertible offered a new level of driving enjoyment, especially for those drawn to the classic British motoring experience of top-down touring. The car retained the sleek fastback-inspired lines of the GT4S coupe but was adapted to accommodate a folding soft-top roof, which was manually operated. It featured twin headlamps, a prominent grille, and subtle chrome trim, giving it a contemporary look that aligned with mid-60s sports car styling trends.
Inside, the GT4S 1300 Convertible offered a clean and driver-focused cabin with enough space for two adults and limited accommodation in the rear, maintaining its 2+2 configuration. While not luxurious, it was practical and engaging, with clear instrumentation and simple switchgear. As with all Bond cars, the Convertible was a low-production vehicle, which today makes it particularly desirable among collectors. Its blend of rarity, open-top motoring, and spirited performance ensures its place as a charming and distinctive piece of British automotive history.