Other than the badge, there is no difference between a Mazda Bongo Friendee and a Ford Freda. (Mazda and Ford are the same company). Both brands will be refered to as Bongos

Bongos are manufactured for the Japanese domestic market. THose that are exported to the UK are classified as unofficial or "grey" imports. However a good selection of spares are easily available.

First built in June 1995, these unique and versatile vehicles come in 3 engine types; WL-T 2.5 turbo diesels, J5 V6 2.5 litre petrols, and FE 2 litre petrol engines. There is a choice of automatic or manual transmission, and rear wheel drive or permanent all-wheel drive.

You have a choice of an elevating roof ("Auto Free Top") or a flat-top.

Flat Top	Free Top	Free Top Closed

Front & rear airconditioning is standard on all vehicles. Most (but not all) have electrically operated internal blinds and external mirrors. There is an auto-close system on the sliding door.

The engine is situated mid-vehicle, so neither the driver or passenger seats will swivel. In a standard configuration, there is a 3-person bench seat in the middle of the van, and a further 3 person bench seat at the rear. This rear bench is either on a sliding rail, or will split in two and will swivel up to hook on to the side of the van.

Dashboard	Front Seats	Middle Seats	Rear Seats

Some Bongos come equipped with factory built kitchen units.

In November 1997 some modifications were made to the body work. These are called "facelift" models.

In February 1999, "New Shape" Bongos started to be produced. From September 1999 diesel Bongos, and manual Bongos were discontinued,although diesel Fredas were produced for a little while longer.