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1971' Mazda Bongo
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£3,500Published 6 August 2026ID: rd6EXm
- Humbert & Ellis
- Northamptonshire
- +44Show phone
Information from the owner
Age: 55 years
Mileage: 15106 km
Displacement: 987 cc
Fuel: Petrol
Transmission: Manual
Exterior color: Yellow
Seller's comments about 1971' Mazda Bongo
FOR SALE IN A HUMBERT & ELLIS LTD TIMED ONLINE ONLY AUCTION ENDING FROM 7PM MONDAY 17TH AUGUSTPLEASE GO TO THE HUMBERT & ELLIS WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO REGISTER TO BID1971 MAZDA BONGO DAY VAN - POSSIBLY THE ONLY EXAMPLE LEFT IN THE UK...Few vehicles capture the spirit of early Japanese ingenuity quite like the charming and exceptionally rare 1971 Mazda Bongo Day Van.Introduced by Mazda in May 1966, the diminutive Bongo was conceived as a compact, forward-thinking light commercial, powered by a rear-mounted 782cc water-cooled OHV four-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels—an arrangement that endowed it with both mechanical simplicity and surprising practicality.This delightful early example presents as a wonderfully characterful and increasingly collectible classic. Its distinctive cab-over design, with minimal overhangs and upright proportions, gives it a unique and instantly recognisable presence, while its compact footprint conceals a remarkably versatile interior space.Displaying an unwarranted 15, 601 miles, the vehicle offers a rare sense of originality and light use, further enhancing its appeal.Configured as a day van, it lends itself beautifully to a variety of uses—whether as a period-correct leisure vehicle, an eye-catching promotional van, or the basis for a sympathetic camper-style conversion. The generous glazing and practical layout create a light and airy environment, perfectly suited to relaxed touring or show attendance.Offered as a restoration project, the van is complete and fundamentally sound, though it now exhibits areas of corrosion and paint degradation consistent with age and long-term storage. As such, it presents an excellent opportunity for the enthusiast to recommission and restore a highly unusual example, with considerable scope to return it to its former charm or tailor it to individual taste.Mechanically straightforward and refreshingly accessible, the Bongo benefits from Mazda’s reputation for durability and clever design. Its lightweight construction and modest power output make for a charming and engaging driving experience, ideally suited to unhurried motoring and nostalgic enjoyment once restored.Early examples of the Bongo, particularly from this first generation, are now seldom encountered—especially in the United Kingdom, where survival rates are believed to be exceptionally low. As such, this example represents a rare opportunity to acquire a highly unusual and increasingly desirable piece of Japanese automotive history.The vehicle was starting and running some years ago but has been out of commission since but stored under cover.Charming, practical, and delightfully distinctive, this very rare 1971 Mazda Bongo Day Van is offered with enormous potential—an appealing restoration project for the discerning collector seeking something genuinely different.This vehicle is located near Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 from where it will need to be collected.Motorscan report and videos available on request.Viewing is by appointment, please contact the office to arrange.
