Description
FOR SALE
The cutest most original Bedford Rascal Van with just 20, 980 miles.
EQUIPMENT
All-steel welded integral construction, right and left hand sliding side-loading doors, bodyside protection trim, laminated windscreen, 2-speed windscreen wipers, electric screenwash, twin door mirrors, twin tailgate struts, locking fuel filler, front and rear mud flaps, high back reclining seats, hinge-down glove box, door map pockets, cab interior light, load compartment lamp, 3-speed fan, twin sun visors, cab entry assist handles, cigar lighter, full length headlining, cab rubber floor covering. Factory Options: Tailgate wash wipe, heated rear window. Accessories: Classic 200 DAB radio with Bluetooth streaming, (Original Radiomobile push button stereo included), Darfil Class A50-X towbar with single electric socket, heavy duty rubber cab mat, witty magnetic handyman side signs (removable without trace).
EXTERIOR
This Bedford Rascal van draws crowds and is the epitome of time warp or any other connotation of something that defies the age of time! These original Vauxhall and Bedford light vans are virtually extinct in any form, let alone in such incredibly preserved condition. Finished in its factory coating of Cargo Blue, (Code 17U), the paintwork boasts a deep polished shine. The underside is clean and free from excess underseal to allow inspection to reveal just how well preserved this example is. Original features such as the supplying dealer number plates, mud flaps and rear screen sticker remain fitted. Having covered a mere 20, 980 miles and used as a florist’s delivery van before being retired as a leisure vehicle, this surely has to be the most privileged and cossetted Rascal in existence! Despite the tiny dimensions, an impressive capacity of 93. 6cu. ft and maximum load of 625kg make this capable cheeky commercial ideal for business promotion and a superb marketing tool!
INTERIOR
The interior of this remarkable example is virtually perfect and exactly as a Rascal should be. The Basalt Grey Twill cloth seat trim, (Code 821), is unmarked and completely free from wear, as is the matching colour scheme Basalt Grey vinyl door trim. The full-length headlining is flawless. The original rubber floor covering can be lifted easily to inspect the cab floor which is incredibly well preserved, as are the usually rust prone front steps and inner arches. The fascia and switchgear are as new and all functions and controls operate seamlessly. An upgraded Bluetooth DAB radio is fitted and the factory optional Radiomobile stereo is included. The only imperfections detectable are light scratches to the inside of the passenger window glass and fading of the white font on the control stalks. The rear load area has clearly seen very little use and owners have been careful to preserve the load floor. A truly outstanding interior reminiscent of a 1989 Vauxhall/ Bedford van dealership!
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The simple and robust four-cylinder 970cc engine develops 45bhp to achieve a top speed of 73mph. This wonderful little engine offers simplicity and economy with both seats easily tilted to allow complete access to the engine compartment which is spotlessly clean with all stickers and plates intact, and even the yellow PDI dots on the strut top bolts remain. The original jack and wheel brace are correctly stored in the engine compartment. The five-speed gearbox is light and precise and electronic ignition is fitted as a welcome upgrade. Driving this exceptionally low mileage and well-maintained Rascal is an absolute joy and a smile is guaranteed!
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The standard 4B x 12 steel wheels in factory light grey are remarkable. Manufacturer stampings are clearly defined on these unrestored rims and only minor age-related markings can be seen, left untreated to retain originality. The centre caps have been professionally re-chromed to perfect standard. Five matching branded 155 R12C reinforced tyres have masses of tread remaining. Dual circuit servo assisted brakes feature 215mm front discs and 220mm rear drums.
HISTORY FILE
Supplied new by GM Bedford Main Dealers, Welch Van and Trucks of Bristol, this example was registered new on 1st September 1989 to first owner Mr Ivor Wheeler. He kept the vehicle until June 1993 when the second keeper Mrs Betty Hawkins took ownership where it was used as a florist’s delivery vehicle and photos in the history file show the van loaded up with its lightweight flowery cargo! KGF Classic Cars sold the vehicle in 2016 to customers who the van to transport vintage prams to rallies and shows and since 2021 there has been one further keeper, a collector of varied and eclectic classic vehicles. A letter from the second to third owner tells how the van was used to assist with her 65 years hobby of growing Dahlias!
Unusual for such a low mileage example, the history file is very comprehensive with the original service booklet displaying nine stamped entries, the most recent full service costing £687. 96 in 2024 and a cambelt change was carried out in February 2025 with supporting invoice. Furthermore, absolutely every MOT from the first to present has been kept to fully warrant the amazingly low 20, 980 miles, along with a large collection of invoices. The original vehicle literature wallet houses all handbooks, supplements and radio guide. Completing the history file is two sets of keys with supplying dealer fob and numerous period sales brochures. Personal inspection really is the only way to fully appreciate just how special this little Rascal is and any trip to a classic car show will result in much admiration and nostalgic praise!
MOT February 2026, HPI Clear.
Please Google 'KGF Classic Cars YouTube' and 'KGF Classic Cars Flickr' for a HD video and multiple detailed HR photos of this vehicle.
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