Opperman Unicar-1958

Opperman was a tractor manufacturer that decided to expand into the microcar business.  They commissioned Lawrie Bond (who designed and built the Bond Microcar) to design a car for them.  It was to have big car comfort with small car economy.  The design was fairly straightforward, with a steel reinforced body.  The rear wheels have a narrower track, thus eliminating the need and cost of a differential.  The Unicar first appeared in 1956 at the London Motor Show where it was the cheapest car at the show.  Sales were slow, so in 1958 the car was also offered in kit form but this did little to help sales, and production ceased in 1959.

 

Specifications:

 

Designer/builder:  S. E. Opperman Ltd., Elstree Hartfordshire

Country of Origin:  England

Drivetrain Configuration:  Mid engine, rear wheel drive

Engine:  328cc Excelsior, 2 stroke, 2 cylinder, air-cooled, 18HP

Transmission:  4 speed manual

Top Speed:  60 MPH

Years of Production:  1956-1959

Number Produced:  200

Original Cost:  400 British Pounds