Test Drive Archive: Ayats Bravo I

Peter Jackson revisits the Ayats Bravo I, on-test for the first time with an automatic gearbox

When the Ayats Bravo double-decker coach launched in the UK back in 1999, its 400 bhp engine was simply too powerful for the automatic gearboxes of the time. Instead, operators wooed by the Spanish vehicle’s futuristic styling had to opt for an eight-speed manual. [wlm_nonmember][…]

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Manchester-based importer Anglo American soon recognised that not everyone enjoyed rowing through the gears; despite the fitment of AVS semi-automatic control, the Bravo remained a challenging vehicle to drive for those unfamiliar. To broaden its appeal, in 2001 they launched an automatic version with a range of de-tuned engines.

Three ZF gearboxes were offered on the Bravo, which could be mated to a choice of three Mercedes-Benz engines or three MAN engines. Our test coach – also the UK’s first automatic example – was powered by a 350 bhp MAN D2866 six-cylinder mated to a ZF 5HP 600 ‘box.

Our editor at the time, Mike Morgan, was the first to get behind the wheel of the updated Bravo. First impressions were promising, but ultimately the vehicle fell short of greatness: “The Bravo behaves with all the obedience of a well-trained Crufts entrant, but it needs to exercise a little more obedience before before it can be a real champion contender,” he said.

The accelerator and steering were praised for their sharpness while on the move, but Mike found that the steering ‘stiffened up’ at lower speeds and the gear change was lumpy. However, he did comment on how stable the stainless steel-framed vehicle felt at speed, particularly in strong winds. Ride and handling were described as ‘excellent.’

Although the Bravo’s interior was said to be less claustrophobic than most of its rivals, the gaudy interior trim fitted to this example didn’t go down well with Mike, who reminded readers of the importance of moquette choice.

Talking of options, what would operators get in return for the Bravo’s £269,000 starting price in 2001? Equipment included Vogel reclining seats, Hispacold air-conditioning, double-glazing, a toilet, powered luggage locker doors, an audio and video system, fridge and hot drinks dispenser, Webasto heater and an internal vacuum cleaning system. On top of all this, customers benefited from a five-year warranty and 24-hour emergency support.

Specification ● Ayats Bravo I