Hymer Mobil first produced an A-class (integral) motorhome in 1972. It was palatial and based on the premium Mercedes-Benz chassis.
In order to broaden the appeal of A-class motorhomes, Hymer decided to build a shorter range based on a more affordable chassis. This was the 500 series and the featured rear-lounge 520 was the first to sell in any number here in the UK.
Based on the Opel Blitz (Bedford CF in Blighty), more were imported to the UK as pre-owned examples for those who were thinking of buying a used motorhome, rather than models that were sold brand new. This is probably the reason why so many were badged Opel and left-hand drive.
The 520 has a forward UK offside kitchen, nearside wardrobe and washroom, all ahead of the opulent triple-aspect rear lounge. Standard equipment included acrylic double glazing (not in cab), space heating, hob, grill, fridge and a washroom with a basin and Porta Potti.
Water heating and a shower were popular cost motorhome upgrades. Standard motive power was provided by an 1800cc petrol engine.
An autobahn-storming 2300cc petrol engine, 1700cc Perkins naturally aspirated diesel engine, plus ZF torque-converter automatic transmission, were also available. The pre-owned 2.3-litre automatic 1979 model pictured was on test by the author back in 2001. Asking price was just over £5000.
See what I had to say about another recent inductee into the Hall of Fame, too, the Dormobile Roma.
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