Description

The Bond Minicar Mark D, launched in 1956, represented a further evolution of the Bond three-wheeler, offering increased refinement, practicality, and driver comfort while still retaining its distinctive minimalist design. It followed the Mark C and brought a more modern aesthetic and improved engineering to the lineup.

The Mark D featured a completely new steel and aluminum body with a squarer, more robust appearance. The cabin was roomier, with better seating and improved weather protection, including wind-up windows in place of earlier side screens. This made it more comfortable for regular use, especially in wet or cold conditions—something earlier models struggled with.

Mechanically, the Mark D continued to use the familiar Villiers two-stroke engine, typically either the 197cc or the larger 247cc version, paired with a three-speed gearbox. The engine remained mounted on the front steering unit, meaning the entire powertrain swiveled when turning the front wheel—a unique solution that allowed for a tight turning radius and simplified drivetrain layout. Later versions of the Mark D also featured an electric starter as an option, a welcome improvement over the previous pull-start system.

Another noteworthy change was the introduction of a reverse gear in the transmission—a practical addition that significantly improved maneuverability in daily use. It also featured improved suspension for a more comfortable ride.

The Bond Minicar Mark D found favor with drivers seeking an affordable, economical vehicle that could be operated with a motorcycle license, and it remained a popular option in post-war Britain. Though modest, it exemplified clever, cost-effective engineering and continues to be appreciated by microcar enthusiasts for its quirky charm and historical significance.