1988 Mazda B2000 Custom Pick-Up

Description

This vehicle will be sold via live auction on Saturday 12th September at the Castle Combe Autumn Classic with auctioneers Dore & Rees Motoring. The price listed is the bottom auction estimate, bids will start at around 25% below this figure on the day. You can email us at [Email address removed. Click Email button to contact us.] or go to [Website URL removed] for more details.

1988 Mazda B2000 Custom Pick-Up

Registration Number: E823 DVL
Chassis Number: TBA
Recorded Mileage: 152,712 miles

The Mazda B-Series has its origins in 1961, when Mazda introduced the B1500, its first compact pick-up truck. The little Japanese truck was developed as a practical commercial vehicle, but its combination of compact dimensions, straightforward engineering and car-like driving characteristics would eventually make the B-Series particularly popular in export markets. The B2000 arrived for the 1980 model year, replacing the B1800 in the North American market.The trucks developed an enthusiastic following among American custom and mini-truck enthusiasts, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s. Their compact proportions, simple rear-wheel-drive architecture and robust mechanicals provided an ideal foundation for modification. Lowered B-Series trucks, wide wheels, custom interiors and highly modified engines became a recognisable part of the period custom scene. The B-Series therefore occupies an interesting position between the traditional American pick-up and the Japanese compact truck.


This 1988 Mazda B2000 Pick-Up has been transformed from its original configuration into a distinctive, show-ready roadster by an enthusiast with considerable experience in American muscle-car restoration. The previous owner owned the Mazda for many years and invested considerable time, expertise and expenditure in creating the truck offered today. The result is an unusually individual custom pick-up, with extensive body modifications, a comprehensive underside restoration and a bespoke interior. The bodywork has undergone extensive modification in steel rather than fibreglass, now arrow-straight and rust-free, while the chassis is in excellent condition (understood never to have required welding). The underside was stripped and repainted as part of the recent restoration, with the work only completed fairly recently.

The truck has been lowered front and rear, giving it a purposeful stance, while the rear suspension is equipped with Max Air fully adjustable air shock absorbers, allowing the owner to alter ride height and stance to suit. Completing the exterior are a set of 15” x 8” ‘Storm’ alloy wheels, a chrome grille, clear indicators and rear light assemblies sourced from the United States. Particularly distinctive is the American/Australian-specification bonnet, complete with its pronounced bonnet bulge, lending the Mazda an unmistakably ‘custom’ character. The rear of the pick-up features a lift-up tonneau cover, providing a practical and neatly finished solution for the load area, while maintaining the clean lines of the custom body.

Perhaps the most unusual aspect of the build is its transformation into a genuine roadster. There is no roof, giving the B2000 an open-air character more usually associated with traditional sports cars rather than compact Japanese pick-ups. A small, lightweight pick-up with the roof removed, lowered suspension, wide alloys and an extensively customised body. The result has considerable presence without losing the inherent charm of the original Mazda. Inside, the standard cabin has been replaced with a fully customised interior, created by South West Customs.

The engine bay remains unrestored, largely with the intention of installing a V8 short-block, which ultimately did not happen. As such power comes from the original 2,000cc petrol engine, driving through a five-speed manual gearbox. The truck is reported to start, run and drive very well, while its relatively straightforward mechanical specification makes it an approachable and usable custom vehicle. The car is supplied with a valid MoT certificate, allowing it to be used straight away.

An excellent show or promotional vehicle, or equally suited to weekend use, summer cruising and informal car events, this pick up provides a basis for further development should the next owner desire.



About Us:
Dore & Rees run regular auctions of classic and collectors cars, motorcycles and automobilia, in addition to art and antiques auctions. For a full calendar of our auctions please go to the website.

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Ad ID: 1802009720

Exact specification may vary from the details on this page. Please contact the seller to reconfirm any details before purchasing. See Terms & Conditions for further information.