As iconic vans go, Del Boy Trotter’s Reliant Regal must be close to the top of the pile. Instantly recognisable as one of the stars of Only Fools and Horses, this notorious three wheeler is being offers for sale at auction later this month by Silverstone Auctions.
This 1968 model has been heavily reworked and benefits from a reconditioned engine, a synchromesh gearbox, remote start, a DVD player and even a smoke machine to simulate the van’s noxious emissions.
Notwithstanding these technical improvements, the van remains exactly as it appeared on screen and comes complete with tiger ‘skin’ plush interior, nodding tiger, “Tax in Post” window notice, nodding tiger, roof rack with suitcase, set of furry dice, personalised rubber foot mats and a set of blow-up plastic dolls.
“Del Boy’s Reliant Regal is one of the most distinctive cars of BBC comedy history! Only Fools and Horses has a fan base spanning several generations and is something of a British treasure, so to have the van from the series for auction is a real treat which will no doubt draw the crowds,” explains Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions.
With 71,778 miles recorded, the van is supplied with its original owners handbook, an MOT until 9th June 2018 and letters in the history file from the BBC which confirm its authenticity.
It could be a brilliant marketing tool for the right business. Although maybe not van hire…
The Trotters’ van will be offered for sale with no reserve at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show at the Birmingham NEC on 11th and 12thNovember.