The Bedford HA was a car derived van introduced in 1963 by Bedford, based on the Vauxhall Viva (HA) family car. It was also known as the Bedford Beagle in estate form and Bedford Roma in small campervan form. The Beagle was an officially sanctioned conversion based on the 8 cwt van, carried out by Martin Walter of Folkestone, Kent. The Beagle received rear side windows and a fold-down rear seat; leaving of luggage space with the seat in use. History The Bedford HA was extremely popular with utility companies in the United Kingdom, particularly the Royal Mail, British Rail, electricity boards, the GPO (later British Telecom (BT)), and British Gas. Many other firms such as British European Airways and Meals on Wheels services had large fleets as well. It was the inspiration for Postman Pat's original van. It was originally available in 6 cwt and heavier duty 8 cwt models (payloads of ), with the chassis codes HAE and HAV respectively. Gross vehicle weights were respectively. The 8 cwt had a heavier rear axle, bigger tyres, and a sixth leaf in the rear springs. The 8 cwt was generally better equipped, offering a number of chromed trim parts (bumpers, mirrors, etcetera) and slightly plusher interior fittings. By 1971 the 6 cwt had been downgraded further yet, and now only came with a driver's seat as standard. A fold-down rear seat was available as an option. By the late seventies, the denominations had been changed to HA 110 and HA 130 respectively, with payload ratings of . In September 1964, for the 1965 model year, the Viva and HA Van received minor changes such as a quicker steering rack, new door trim, and a modified choke control. In Australia, the Bedford HA was sold as the "Bedford Handi-Van" from 1964 until 1970. Engines The early version had a lower compression ratio than the Viva saloon (7.3:1 rather than the usual 8.5:1), producing gross, or net, both at 5,200 rpm. In 1967, the HA received the engine of the changed Viva. This was essentially the same as the earlier powerplant; although net power was down to a claimed at 4,600 rpm. It ran on the lowest rated fuel and was fitted with a -bore carburettor for even higher fuel mileage. The later models powered by the 1,256 cc engine offered gross at 5,400 rpm, or net at 4,600 rpm. By 1977