The Crayford storyRedefining motoring since 1963

1963
Investing just £20 each, David McMullan and fellow founder Jeff Smith establish Crayford Auto Developments. The Mini convertible is the first car to roll out of their workshop.
1964
The Crayford Mini is a big success in the UK – and as far afield as Australia. The Crayford Mk1 Ford Cortina is unveiled at London’s Racing Car Show.

1965
Crayford Mini convertibles are given away as prizes in a competition run by Heinz 57. Crayford supplies 57 Wolseley conversions exclusively to the food company. The BMC 1100 Estate conversion is also launched.
One Of Fifty Seven – Mark Robinson on Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0)
1966
The deposit to purchase a Crayford factory in Westerham is funded by the Heinz collaboration, and the name Crayford Auto Development Ltd is registered.

1967-1970
The Crayford Rover 2000/V8 P6 Estate is revealed, as well as the Vauxhall Viva HB Cabriolet, Capri convertible, BMC 1300 Cabriolet, V8 Capri Saloon, Mercedes-Benz 114 ‘Compact’ Estate and the Austin 3-litre Estate.
1967 Ford Crayford Mk II Cortina Convertible – Sicnag (CC BY 2.0)

1972
Crayford introduces the Mk3 Ford Cortina Sunshine to market, as well as the world’s smallest four-wheel car, the William Microcar. The coachbuilder also develops the Di Blasi 50cc folding motorcycle which is transported in a bag.
Ford Crayford Cortina – photo on Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

1974-1975
Crayford launches its Mercedes Benz “S” Estate, BL 2200 series 5 door Hatchback, and the Austin Allegro. Spain ranks as the brand’s largest export market.
1974 Mercedes-Benz Estate by Crayford – Alden Jewell on Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

1980-1981
Crayford exhibits a three-door Mercedes Benz 450 SLC and a Volkswagen Scirocco Crayford convertible at the NEC Motor Show. At the October Motor Show, it displays its last convertible Ford Cortina, based on the Mk5. Later, the Fiesta Fly is unveiled.
Rover 3500 Series II Estate – Simon GP Geoghegan (CC BY 3.0)
1985-1987
The Leyland International Roadtrain truck becomes Crayford’s largest-ever convertible, while other notable one-off projects include a Ford Escort XR3 saloon, Sierra Turbo, and a Capri 280.