1962 Bedford JO truck, 2561cc. Registration number 571 XVM (...

Hammer

£7,700

1962 Bedford JO truck, 2561cc. Registration number 571 XVM (non transferrable). Chassis number JOC 62761. Engine number 3794.
First manufactured in 1958, the Bedford TJ continued in production in some form for over 30 years, although after the mid ‘70s it was only available for export, typically to South Asia. It came in several different model sizes with varying load capacities; the one-and-a-half ton J1 being the smallest through to the J6 which could carry 7 tons.
The half-ton J0 (sometimes referred to as a JO with an “o” not a zero), like we have for sale here, was introduced in 1960 as a pickup and van featuring a cab almost identical in appearance to that used on the small TJ models. It was powered by the 2.6 litre straight six petrol engine from the Vauxhall Cresta (Bedford’s parent company) giving 95bhp and near saloon car levels of performance. Contemporary reports claim that the J0 could top 100mph - something very few light-commercials could do back then.
It delivered power through a three-speed all-synchromesh column-shift gearbox. Suspension was provided by semi-elliptic springs and telescopic dampers on both axles. When first introduced in the UK it was priced at £627 for the full-bodied pick up or £475 for just the cab and chassis. A large number of the production were exported to "The Colonies".
XVM was one such machine spending its life in New Zealand on a farm. Brought home in 2020 it has been registered with DVLA and will be driven to the saleroom.
Offered in as used condition it is a blank canvas for the next custodian to make it into whatever they so desire. It has the desirable four on floor gearbox compared to the normal three on the column.
Sold with the V5C.