Bond Equipe 2 Litre Mk 2 (1968-70)

Overview: The **Bond Equipe 2-litre Mark 2 (1968-70)** was a significant model for **Bond Cars Ltd**, as it represented the company’s **final evolution** of the Equipe series before Bond was acquired by **Reliant** in 1969. 

Key Significance:

- **Performance Upgrade**: The Mark 2 featured a **Triumph Vitesse chassis** and a **2.0L six-cylinder engine**, increasing power to **104 bhp**, making it one of Bond’s most capable cars.

- **Improved Suspension**: It introduced **lower-wishbone rear suspension**, enhancing handling and ride quality.

- **Convertible Option**: A **convertible variant** was introduced alongside the coupe, broadening its appeal.

- **Final Bond Model**: The Equipe 2-litre Mark 2 was the **last car produced under the Bond name**, as Reliant shut down Bond’s factory in **1970**, marking the end of the brand.

Though Bond Cars Ltd was a **small-scale manufacturer**, the Equipe series—especially the **2-litre Mark 2**—showcased the company’s ability to produce **stylish, performance-oriented vehicles**. It remains a **cult classic** among British car enthusiasts.

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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 Equipe 2-Litre Mark II, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are a few issues that owners and enthusiasts often encounter: 

1. **Chassis Corrosion**: The steel chassis can suffer from rust, particularly in the side ladder sections behind the sills. 

2. **Fiberglass Body**: The fiberglass body can develop cracks and imperfections over time. 

3. **Electrical Issues**: As with many older cars, the electrical system can be prone to faults and may require rewiring. 

4. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components, especially those borrowed from other models like the Triumph Vitesse, can wear out and need replacement. 

5. **Engine Problems**: The Triumph engines are generally reliable, but issues such as oil leaks, smoky exhausts, and cooling system problems can arise. These issues are typical for a car of its age and can be addressed with proper maintenance and restoration. 

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Generations/Trim Levels 

The Bond Equipe series had several generations, each with its own unique features and improvements. Here are the main generations: 

1. **Bond Equipe GT 2+2**: Manufactured from May 1963 to October 1964. 

2. **Bond Equipe GT4S**: Produced from September 1964 to January 1967. 

3. **Bond Equipe GT4S 1300**: Manufactured from February 1967 to August 1970. 

4. **Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark I**: Produced from August 1967 to September 1968. 

5. **Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark II**: Manufactured from September 1968 to October 1970. 

Each generation brought enhancements in design, performance, and features, making the Bond Equipe a notable series in British automotive history. 

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Production Total: The Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark II had a total production run of **841 cars**, including both saloons and convertibles. 

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Price New: The new price of a **Bond Equipe 2-litre Mk 2 convertible** in the UK in 1968 was approximately **£1,305**. 

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Sales: The **Bond Equipe 2 Litre Mark 2**, produced between **1968 and 1970**, was an evolution of the earlier **Mark 1**, featuring **improved suspension** and a slight increase in **engine power** to **104 bhp**. While it offered a **sporty, fastback design** and was based on the **Triumph Vitesse chassis**, it remained a **niche vehicle**, with only **841 units** produced. Ultimately, it did not achieve widespread commercial success, and production ended in **October 1970**, when Reliant, which had acquired Bond, closed the factory. However, today, it holds a **cult following** among enthusiasts.

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Rivals: In 1968, the main rivals of the **Bond Equipe 2-litre Mk 2 convertible** in the UK included the **Crayford Cortina Convertible GT** and the **Triumph Vitesse 2-litre Mk2 convertible**. 

Here are their approximate new prices: 

**Crayford Cortina Convertible GT**: Around **£1,312** 

**Triumph Vitesse 2-litre Mk2 convertible**: Around **£1,049** 

These prices reflect the competitive landscape for sporty convertibles in the UK market at that time. 

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Engines 

The Bond Equipe series featured a variety of engines throughout its production. 

Here are the main engines available: 

1. **Bond Equipe GT 2+2**: - 1147 cc Triumph Spitfire engine, producing 63 bhp. 

2. **Bond Equipe GT4S**: - 1147 cc Triumph Spitfire engine, producing 63 bhp (later increased to 67 bhp). 

3. **Bond Equipe GT4S 1300**: - 1296 cc Triumph Spitfire engine, producing 75 bhp. 

4. **Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark I**: - 1998 cc Triumph Vitesse engine, producing 95 bhp. 

5. **Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark II**: - 1998 cc Triumph Vitesse engine, producing 104 bhp. 

These engines provided a range of performance options, making the Bond Equipe a versatile and appealing choice for enthusiasts. 

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Performance 

Here's a breakdown of the expected performance for each version of the Bond Equipe: 

Bond Equipe GT 2+2 (1963-1964) - **Engine**: 1147 cc Triumph Spitfire - **Power**: 63 bhp - **Top Speed**: Approximately 83 mph (134 km/h) - **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 17.6 seconds 

Bond Equipe GT4S (1964-1967) - **Engine**: 1147 cc Triumph Spitfire (later increased to 1296 cc) - **Power**: 63 bhp (later increased to 67 bhp) - **Top Speed**: Approximately 90 mph (145 km/h) - **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 17.6 seconds - Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/bond/gt-2plus2gt4sequipe/) 

Bond Equipe GT4S 1300 (1967-1970) - **Engine**: 1296 cc Triumph Spitfire - **Power**: 75 bhp - **Top Speed**: Approximately 90 mph (145 km/h) - **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 14 seconds - Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/bond/gt-2plus2gt4sequipe/) 

Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark I (1967-1968) - **Engine**: 1998 cc Triumph Vitesse - **Power**: 95 bhp - **Top Speed**: Approximately 100 mph (161 km/h) - **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 12 seconds 

Bond Equipe 2-Litre Mark II (1968-1970) - **Engine**: 1998 cc Triumph Vitesse - **Power**: 104 bhp - **Top Speed**: Approximately 102 mph (164 km/h) - **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 11 seconds 

These specifications highlight the evolution of the Bond Equipe series, with each version offering improved performance and features. 

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Recorded in UK 2025 

As of 2025, there are approximately **12 Bond Equipe 2-litre Mk 2 convertibles** recorded as licensed in the UK, with an additional **8** recorded as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). 

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Target Age Group: The **Bond Equipe 2-litre Mark 2 (1968-70)** was primarily targeted at **young professionals and driving enthusiasts** who wanted a stylish, performance-oriented British sports saloon. Bond Cars Ltd positioned it as a **sporty yet practical alternative** to mainstream sedans, appealing to those who valued **individuality and driving excitement**.

It was particularly popular among:

- **Motorsport fans** who appreciated its **Triumph Vitesse-derived chassis** and **six-cylinder engine**.

- **Young professionals** looking for a distinctive car that stood out from conventional models.

- **Classic British car enthusiasts** who wanted a blend of **performance and exclusivity**.

Though Bond Cars was a **small-scale manufacturer**, the Equipe series—especially the **2-litre Mark 2**—showcased the company’s ability to produce **stylish, performance-oriented vehicles**. It remains a **cult classic** among British car enthusiasts.

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Influence of Target Age Group

The **target age group** plays a crucial role in shaping marketing strategies, product design, and consumer engagement. Businesses often use **demographic segmentation** to tailor their offerings based on age-related preferences, behaviors, and purchasing power. 

For example, **generational marketing** focuses on distinct age groups—such as Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers—each with unique values and expectations. Younger consumers may prioritize **digital experiences and sustainability**, while older generations might value **brand loyalty and traditional advertising**. 

Understanding these differences allows brands to create **personalized messaging**, optimize **marketing channels**, and enhance **customer engagement** for maximum impact. Let me know if you’d like insights on a specific age group!

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Parts Bin Engineering

The **Bond Equipe 2.0 Litre Mark 2**, produced between **1968 and 1970**, was built using components from **Triumph**. It was based on the **Triumph Vitesse chassis** and featured the **2.0-litre straight-six engine** from Triumph. Bond Cars Ltd collaborated with **Standard-Triumph** to integrate Triumph mechanicals into the Equipe range. However, production ended in **October 1970** when Reliant, which had acquired Bond, closed the factory.

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Spares/Specialists NI 

For locating spares for the Bond Equipe in the UK and Ireland, you have several options: 

1. **Bond Owners Club**: They provide resources and support for Bond car owners, including spare parts and advice. You can find more details on their [website](https://www.bondownersclub.co.uk/equipe). 

2. **eBay**: A wide range of Bond Equipe parts and service kits are available on [eBay](https://www.ebay.co.uk/b/bn_1262666). 

3. **MorePartz**: This site offers a variety of Bond Equipe car parts, spares, and accessories. You can explore their offerings [here](https://www.morepartz.co.uk/car-parts/bond/equipe/). 

As for garage services in Northern Ireland that cater to the Bond Equipe, here are a few options: 

1. **Down Garage Equipment**: Located in Moneyreagh, they supply a wide range of garage equipment and offer servicing. You can contact them [here](https://www.downgarageequipment.co.uk/contact/). 

2. **J McClimond Engineering**: Based in Newry, they provide a full range of garage equipment and services. More details can be found [here](https://www.garageequipmentni.co.uk/contact/). 

3. **Thomson Local**: This directory lists various garage services in Northern Ireland. You can find more information [here](https://www.thomsonlocal.com/search/garage-services/northern-ireland). 

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Racing 

The Bond Equipe did see some action in motorsport, particularly in club racing and hill climbs. While it wasn't a dominant force in professional racing circuits, its lightweight fiberglass body and Triumph-based mechanicals made it a competitive choice for amateur racers and enthusiasts. 

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Valuation 

The value of a Bond Equipe 2+2 GT Mk 1 can vary depending on its condition, history, and specific model. Here are some recent examples: 

1. A Bond Equipe GT was listed for around £787. 

2. Another Bond Equipe 2-Litre GT 2+2 was listed for £3,995. 

These values can fluctuate based on the car's condition, mileage, and any restoration work done. If you're looking to buy or sell one, it's a good idea to check with classic car auction houses or specialist dealers for the most up-to-date valuations. 

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Clubs 

There are owners' clubs for Bond vehicles in Northern Ireland. The [Bond Owners' Club](https://www.bondownersclub.co.uk/) is a notable one that caters to enthusiasts of Bond vehicles, including the famous three-wheeler Bond Minicars and other models. They organize various events and rallies throughout the year, which might be of interest to you. If you're looking for more specific information or local chapters, you might want to check out the [List of Vehicle Owners Clubs](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/67b5a4d74a80c6718b55bf6b/v765-1-list-of-vehicle-owners-clubs.pdf) provided by the UK government. This list includes various vehicle owners' clubs, and you might find one that suits your interests. 

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