Bond Bug (1970-74)

Overview: The **Bond Bug (1970-74)** was a bold and unconventional vehicle that marked the **final chapter** for Bond Cars Ltd before the company was fully absorbed by **Reliant**. It was designed to appeal to **young drivers** looking for a fun, affordable, and futuristic car, standing out with its **wedge-shaped body, lift-up canopy, and bright orange paint**.

Key Significance:

- **Aimed at Younger Buyers**: Reliant developed the Bond Bug to attract **younger drivers** to its three-wheeled range Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/bond/bug-700e/history/).

- **Innovative Design**: Styled by **Tom Karen of Ogle Design**, the Bug embraced the **wedge-shaped aesthetic** that became popular in the 1970s Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/bond/bug-700e/history/).

- **Reliant’s Takeover**: Bond Cars Ltd was acquired by **Reliant in 1969**, and the Bug was built using **Reliant Regal running gear** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/bond/bug-700e/history/).

- **Cult Classic Status**: Though production ended in **1974**, the Bond Bug remains a **beloved microcar**, known for its quirky design and fun driving experience.

Despite its **short production run**, the Bond Bug left a lasting impression, becoming one of the most **recognizable British microcars** of its era. 

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COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **Bond Bug** is a quirky and fun classic, but like any vintage car, it has its share of common faults. Here are some issues that owners often encounter:

- **Fiberglass Body Cracks** – The lightweight fiberglass shell can develop cracks over time, especially around stress points.

- **Rust on Chassis** – While the body is fiberglass, the chassis is steel and prone to rust, particularly in damp climates.

- **Weak Brakes** – The braking system, derived from the **Reliant Regal**, can feel underpowered compared to modern standards.

- **Handling Quirks** – As a **three-wheeler**, the Bond Bug has unique handling characteristics, requiring careful driving, especially in corners.

- **Electrical Issues** – Aging wiring can lead to faults in the **lights, indicators, and ignition system**.

- **Limited Parts Availability** – Some components are hard to find, though a dedicated enthusiast community helps keep them running.

Despite these quirks, the Bond Bug remains a **beloved classic**, with many owners restoring and maintaining them with care. If you're considering one, a thorough inspection of the **chassis, brakes, and electrics** is highly recommended - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104923/bond-bug-buying-guide-and-review-1970-1974). 

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Generations/Trim Levels

The **Bond Bug (1970-74)** was a **single-generation** vehicle, but it had **two main trim levels** during its production run:

Trim Levels:

1. **Bond Bug 700E** – The base model, featuring a **700cc Reliant engine** with **29 bhp**.

2. **Bond Bug 700ES** – A higher-spec version with a **redesigned cylinder head**, increasing compression and power to **31 bhp**. It also included **low-profile tires, improved seats with headrests, mud flaps, an ashtray, and a different steering wheel design** - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104923/bond-bug-buying-guide-and-review-1970-1974).

Though the Bond Bug didn’t have multiple generations, its **distinctive wedge-shaped design and lift-up canopy** made it one of the most recognizable microcars of its era. 

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Designer/Dimensions

The **Bond Bug** was designed by **Tom Karen of Ogle Design**, a firm known for its work on other iconic 1970s designs, including the **Raleigh Chopper bicycle**. 

Dimensions:

- **Wheelbase**: **1,956 mm (6 ft 5 in)**

- **Length**: **2,794 mm (9 ft 2 in)**

- **Width**: **1,397 mm (4 ft 7 in)**

- **Height**: **1,270 mm (4 ft 2 in)**

- **Kerb Weight**: **373 kg (822 lb)**

Its **compact, wedge-shaped body** and **lift-up canopy** made it one of the most distinctive microcars of its era. 

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Production Total: The **Bond Bug** had a total production run of **2,272 units** between **1970 and 1974**. It remains a **cult classic**, known for its quirky wedge-shaped design and fun driving experience. 

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Price New: The **Bond Bug** was priced at **£629** when it was launched in the UK in **1970** - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104923/bond-bug-buying-guide-and-review-1970-1974). Interestingly, this made it **£9 more expensive** than the more practical **Mini 850**, which may have contributed to its niche appeal rather than mainstream success. 

Despite its quirky design and fun driving experience, the Bond Bug remained a **cult classic** rather than a mass-market vehicle. 

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Sales: The Bond Bug, introduced in 1970, was designed as a fun, sporty three-wheeler aimed at younger drivers. Despite its **distinctive wedge-shaped design** and eye-catching **tangerine paint**, it struggled to achieve commercial success. Only around **2,200 units** were sold before production ended in 1974. However, today, the Bond Bug enjoys a **cult following**, with enthusiasts restoring and modifying them for modern use.

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Rivals: In **1970 UK**, the **Bond Bug** was priced at **£629**, making it slightly more expensive than some of its rivals. Here’s how it compared to other small cars of the time:

- **Mini 850** – **£620**, a more practical and stable alternative.

- **Reliant Regal 3/30** – **£475**, another three-wheeler but less sporty.

- **Hillman Imp** – **£700**, a rear-engined compact with better refinement.

- **Austin 1100** – **£750**, a more conventional small family car.

The Bond Bug was aimed at **young drivers** looking for something fun and unique, but its price made it a niche choice rather than a mainstream success.

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The **Bond Bug (1970-74)** had several rivals in the small car and three-wheeler market, each offering different levels of performance:

- **Mini 850** – **Top speed: ~75 mph (121 km/h)**, **Power: 34 bhp**, known for its **excellent handling and practicality**.

- **Reliant Regal 3/30** – **Top speed: ~60 mph (97 km/h)**, **Power: 29 bhp**, a more conventional three-wheeler with **better stability**.

- **Hillman Imp** – **Top speed: ~85 mph (137 km/h)**, **Power: 39-51 bhp**, a **rear-engined compact** with strong performance.

- **Austin 1100** – **Top speed: ~80 mph (129 km/h)**, **Power: 48-55 bhp**, a **comfortable and refined small family car**.

The **Bond Bug** was designed for **fun rather than practicality**, offering a **top speed of ~76 mph (122 km/h)** and **29-31 bhp**, making it competitive with some of its rivals in terms of speed but lacking the stability of four-wheeled cars. 

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Engine/s

The **Bond Bug** was fitted with a **Reliant 700cc inline-four engine**, later upgraded to **750cc** in some models. Here are its key specifications:

- **Engine Type**: Reliant light-alloy **four-cylinder** engine.

- **Displacement**: **700cc** (later **750cc** in some versions).

- **Power Output**: 

  - **700E & 700 models** – **29 bhp (22 kW)**.

  - **700ES model** – **31 bhp (23 kW)** (due to a redesigned cylinder head and increased compression ratio).

- **Compression Ratio**: 

  - **700E & 700 models** – **7.35:1**.

  - **700ES model** – **8.4:1**.

- **Transmission**: **4-speed manual**.

- **Top Speed**: Around **76 mph (122 km/h)**.

- **Weight**: **373 kg (822 lb)**.

The **Bond Bug 700ES** was the most powerful version, offering improved torque and slightly better performance. Despite its modest power, the Bug’s **lightweight fiberglass body** made it feel surprisingly nimble.

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Performance

The **Bond Bug** was a lightweight, quirky three-wheeler that offered **surprisingly lively performance** for its size. Here’s what it could do:

- **Top Speed**: Around **76 mph (122 km/h)**.

- **Acceleration**: Modest, but felt quick due to its **lightweight fiberglass body**.

- **Handling**: Unique, thanks to its **three-wheel layout**, requiring careful cornering.

- **Braking**: Basic, with **drum brakes** that were adequate but not exceptional.

- **Fuel Efficiency**: Very economical, making it a fun and affordable runabout.

The **700ES model** had a **higher compression ratio**, giving it a slight power boost over the standard **700E**. Despite its small engine, the Bug’s **low weight** made it feel nimble and engaging to drive - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104923/bond-bug-buying-guide-and-review-1970-1974).

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Recorded in UK 2025

I couldn't find an exact number of **Bond Bugs** recorded in the UK in **2025**, but they remain a **rare and cherished classic** among enthusiasts. Given their **limited production run of 2,272 units**, only a fraction of them are likely still on the road today. 

If you're looking for precise figures, checking with **DVLA records** or classic car registries might be the best approach. *****

Spares/Specialists NI

You can find **Bond Bug spares** in the UK and Ireland through specialized suppliers. One of the best sources is the **Bond Bug Spares Scheme**, which offers parts for both **Bond Bug and Reliant vehicles**. They provide a variety of components, including **engine, gearbox, and bodywork parts**.

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If you're looking for **Bond Bug garage services** in **Northern Ireland**, you might want to check out **Commons Brae Garage**, located at **188 Saintfield Road, Belfast (BT8 6NN)**. They offer **car repair services** and could be a good place to inquire about Bond Bug maintenance.

Additionally, you can explore **Honest John’s Good Garage Guide** or **Thomson Local’s Garage Services listings** for more options in Northern Ireland.

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Racing

The **Bond Bug** wasn’t designed for racing, but it did gain some attention in **motorsport-related events**. While it wasn’t a competitive race car, it was occasionally used in **promotional stunts and endurance challenges** to showcase its quirky design and surprising agility. 

Its lightweight fiberglass body and **Reliant 700cc engine** made it fun to drive, but its **three-wheeled layout** limited its racing potential compared to traditional four-wheeled sports cars. However, it remains a **cult classic**, often appearing in **retro car shows and enthusiast events**.

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Valuation

In **2025**, the **Bond Bug** is valued between **£2,110 and £13,915**, depending on its **condition and rarity**. The **median price** for a Bond Bug in **average condition** is around **£4,970**. 

Some well-preserved examples can fetch **£7,500 or more**, especially if they have been **restored** or are in **excellent condition** – Price Tracker | CCFS UK](https://www.classiccarsforsale.co.uk/blog/market-trends/bond-bug-price-tracker). The Bond Bug remains a **cult classic**, with values steadily increasing over the years.

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Clubs

If you're looking for **Bond Bug owner clubs** in **Northern Ireland**, you might want to check out the **Bond Bug Club**, which welcomes enthusiasts from across the UK and Ireland. You can find more details on their official website [here](https://www.bondbugs.co.uk/bugclub.php). 

Additionally, the **Bond Owners' Club** provides support, technical advice, and access to spare parts for Bond vehicles. More information is available [here](https://www.bondownersclub.co.uk/club-services). 

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