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Bond Bug 700

Bond Bug 700
ManufacturerBond
CountryUK
Production Started1970
Production Stopped1973
Body StyleThree-wheeler

The Bond Bug 700 was a quirky and iconic three-wheeled microcar introduced in 1970 by Bond Cars Ltd, shortly after the company was taken over by Reliant. Designed by Tom Karen of Ogle Design, the Bond Bug was aimed at a youthful market and stood out with its wedge-shaped fiberglass body and eye-catching orange paint, which became its signature color.

The “700” designation referred to its 701cc Reliant four-cylinder engine, which delivered around 30 horsepower. This engine was mounted at the front and drove the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. With a lightweight body and minimalist interior, the Bond Bug 700 could achieve a top speed of about 75 mph, which was brisk for such a compact and unconventional vehicle.

Access to the cockpit was through a flip-up canopy, replacing conventional doors, which added to its futuristic and sporty appeal. Inside, the car featured two seats, basic instrumentation, and a spartan finish aimed at keeping the weight and cost low.

Despite its modest mechanicals, the Bond Bug 700 developed a cult following thanks to its distinctive design and fun driving experience. It was produced in small numbers until 1974, when production ceased, but it remains a beloved symbol of 1970s British motoring eccentricity.

Vehicle

Production Numbers0
Number of Doors1
Number of Seats2

Engine

Engine ManufacturerBond
EngineInline 4
Engine LocationFront
Engine Displacement701 cc
ValvetrainOHV
Valves per Cylinder2
Bore60.5 mm
Stroke61 mm
Cooling SystemWater
Charging System6V
Fuel TypePetrol
Fuel SystemCarburator
AspirationNormal

Performance

Top Speed76 mph
Acceleration (0-60mph)24 s
Power21 / 29 / 29 @ 5000 rpm
Torque47 / 35 @ 3000 rpm

Steering, Transmission & Suspension

DrivetrainRear
TransmissionM4
SteeringRack and Pinion
Front SuspensionLeaf Spring
Rear SuspensionLeaf Spring
Front BrakesMechanical Braking
Rear BrakesMechanical Braking
ChassisBody-on-Frame

Dimensions

Weight395 kg
Length2794 mm
Width1397 mm
Height1270 mm
Wheelbase1956 mm