Bedford OB/ OWB Profile and Models
NBH 746 in June 2005. ©Ed Webster
The Bedford OB was a bus chassis manufactured by Bedford. It was a successor to the Bedford WTB and had a wheelbase of 14ft and 6inches, and was a semi-forward control model designed to carry between 26 and 29 passengers. The buses were powered by a 27hp petrol engine, mated to a four-speed manual gearbox and a fully floating rear axle. Although only 73 were built prior to the cessation of production due to World War II, it reappeared in a largely unchanged form at the end of the war, continuing in production until 1951. A total of 12,766 were produced, making it one of the most popular buses of its type ever. Bedford co-developed with Duple the "Vista" coachwork for the OB, fronted by a classic bullnose. Geared to reach speeds of at least 40 miles per hour (64 km/h), which was fast for its day, the OB is remembered by many for its characteristic gearbox whine. |
|
Power Type |
Petrol |
Builder |
Bedford |
Build Dates |
1939 to 1951 |
Total Built |
12,766 |
Seating Capacity |
27 to 29 |
Floor Type |
Step entrance (High floor) |
Decks |
1 |
Areas of Operation |
Nationwide |
Products awaiting categorisation
Scale | Brand | Image | Construction Type | DCC Capability | Product Code | Product Title | Livery |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
OO Gauge (1:76 Scale) | Springside Models | Requires assembly | Not set |
81Springside View |
Bedford OB Coach - whitemetal kit | Unpainted |