Description

The Bond Minicar Mark A DeLuxe was an early postwar British microcar, introduced in 1949 as an enhanced version of the original Bond Minicar. Designed by Lawrence “Lawrie” Bond and built by Sharp’s Commercials Ltd., the Mark A DeLuxe was aimed at providing affordable personal transport in an era of postwar austerity. It featured a lightweight aluminum body mounted on a simple tubular steel chassis, and its three-wheeled configuration allowed it to be driven on a motorcycle license, avoiding higher car taxes and insurance rates.

The Mark A DeLuxe improved upon the basic model with several comfort and aesthetic enhancements. It retained the 122cc Villiers two-stroke engine, mounted in front and connected directly to the single front wheel, which also handled steering duties. A kick-starter was used to start the engine, much like a motorcycle, and drive was transmitted through a two-speed gearbox. The DeLuxe version introduced better seating, a more finished interior, and minor styling tweaks, such as a more prominent front grille and chromed trim pieces that gave it a slightly more upmarket appearance.

Despite its minimal power, the Mark A DeLuxe was light and nimble, capable of reaching speeds around 30–40 mph. It was extremely economical to run and became popular with cost-conscious motorists. Its compact size made it ideal for urban driving, though it was not designed for long-distance comfort. The Bond Minicar Mark A DeLuxe is now considered a charming example of postwar ingenuity, prized by collectors for its quirky character and historical significance in the evolution of British motoring.