Exclusive First Editions 1/76 Scale Die-cast 20130 Bedford OB Coach WESTERN

Exclusive First Editions 1/76 Scale Die-cast 20130 Bedford OB Coach WESTERN 

The Bedford OB coach must arguably rank as one of the most instantly recognisable bus and coach types; its swept back lines and distinctive ‘bull nose’ radiator helping to seamlessly combine style with mechanical practicality.

The OB was introduced in 1939 as a replacement for Bedford’s earlier WLB type and featured a 28hp engine with a four-speed manual gearbox, a fully floating rear axle, and vacuum servo-assisted hydraulic brakes. The top speed was in the region of 40mph.

Seventy-three OBs, most of which having the classic Duple ‘Vista’ bodywork, were completed by the time the Second World War broke out in September that year. A wartime version, the OWB, was built during the war years, but the OB returned after the conflict, with construction continuing until 1951. Altogether, some 12,693 (some sources say 12,766) were completed; 5,493 of which were exported.

Thankfully, around 180 Bedford OBs are known to survive, many of which are in operable condition, so the distinctive gearbox whine that so characterised the OB, can still be heard on Britain’s roads today.