 | ||
The SCAMP MOTOR COMPANY still manufactures the Mini Scamp and Suzuki SJ/Daihatsu F50, F55 based Scamp Mk4x4 Kit Cars The Mk1 Mini Scamp first built in 1969. Shortly after BMC Mini Moke production stopped in Longbridge.
The first Mark 1 kits which were styled similarly to the Mini Moke were produced by Robert Mandry in Ottershaw, Berkshire. They used the mechanical parts from a Classic Mini, complete with all it's running gear and both front and rear sub-frames. The new Scamp body/chassis is made from a steel, square-tube, box section frame fitted with aluminium panels. Options included a van, estate or pick-up body, four or six wheel chassis and short or long wheelbase. Power units range from 850cc to 1400cc with a multitude of modifications. Nearly every Scamp is different as most of the car is left up to the owner to complete.
The Mark 2 version was launched in 1978, which had a squarer body and stronger chassis, not using the mini rear subframe.
In 1987 Scamp manufacturing and ownership was taken over by Scamp enthusiast, Andrew MacLean, a Retained Fireman from Turners Hill. Initially a factory was set up in East Grinstead, Sussex, but later moved to its current location in Rowfant, Sussex.
The Mark 3 version started production in 1988 with new demonstrator appearing in all the Kit Car and Mini magazines. The Scamp Mk3 GT Scamp appeared in "Top Gear Madazine".
This was followed by a version built on either a Suzuki SJ chassis or the Daihatsu F50/F55.
In 2011 the Scamp Motor Company acquired the manufacturing rights to the RTV, the Rough Terrain Vehicle. New classic Mini and Ford based versions are currently being developed.