1977 Ford

The Transit Mark I was produced initially at Ford’s Langley facility in Berkshire, but demand soon outstripped the capability of the plant and production was moved to Southampton. A key to the Transit’s success was the sheer number of different body styles available. The new van was seen everywhere as a panel van, an ice cream van, a high-sided small removal van, a police minibus, and even a fire engine. By the time the second generation Transit took over in 1978, it was the UK’s favourite workhorse.

The Transit has been the best-selling light commercial vehicle in Europe since its introduction, and in some countries the term ‘Transit’ has passed into common usage as a generic term applying to any light commercial van in this size bracket.

First registered in March 1977, this Transit Mark I 2-litre served as a Metropolitan Police control vehicle until going on display at the Stondon Museum some years ago. Retaining much of its original crowd control equipment including a public address system and reinforced windows, this wonderful Transit has been used as a film prop and would make an excellent addition to any collection.