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1968 Constructam Condor 2 – Exterior and Interior – Motorworld Classics Bodensee 2022

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In 1968, the Constructam Condor 2 represented a distinctly European vision of mobile travel. Built in Belgium, it combined lightweight construction with panoramic glazing and carefully considered interior space. At a time when caravan design was often purely functional, Constructam pursued clarity of form and technical precision.

Technical Details

The 1968 Constructam Condor 2 was a single-axle touring caravan engineered with an emphasis on weight reduction and towing stability. Constructam caravans were known for their use of aluminum body panels over a lightweight frame structure, a method that reduced overall mass compared with heavier timber-based constructions common in earlier caravans.

The Condor 2 typically featured independent suspension with torsion-bar or rubber-sprung axle systems, depending on specification, enhancing ride stability and road handling when towed. Braking systems were usually inertia-operated overrun brakes, standard for European caravans of the period. Electrical systems were designed for 12-volt towing vehicle connection, with integrated interior lighting and auxiliary connections for campsite power.

Insulation and body sealing were key technical priorities. Constructam caravans were recognized for attention to weatherproofing and structural rigidity, helping to maintain durability under regular touring use. The aerodynamic front profile, combined with relatively modest overall weight, made the Condor 2 compatible with mid-sized European passenger cars of the late 1960s.

  • Manufacturer: Constructam
  • Model Name: Constructam Condor 2
  • Year of Manufacturing: 1968

Design

The Constructam Condor 2 stood out for its clean, modernist exterior. Its rounded edges and large panoramic front window created a light, open appearance that distinguished it from more box-like contemporaries. Aluminum body panels were often finished in light tones, contributing to both heat reflection and visual clarity.

Inside, the layout emphasized efficient use of space. Typical configurations included a front lounge area convertible into sleeping accommodation, compact galley facilities with integrated storage, and carefully positioned cabinetry to maximize usable interior volume. Light wood finishes and large window areas created a bright atmosphere, even within the relatively compact footprint.

The Condor 2’s interior design reflected mid-century European design principles: functionality, modularity, and restrained ornamentation. Seating and table arrangements were designed to transform between day and night configurations, supporting extended touring use.

Historical Significance

Constructam was founded in Belgium in the post-war period and became known for high-quality, design-focused caravans during the 1950s and 1960s. By 1968, European caravan culture was expanding rapidly, driven by improved road infrastructure and rising middle-class mobility. The Condor 2 formed part of Constructam’s effort to provide technically refined and aesthetically modern touring solutions.

The brand positioned itself as a premium manufacturer within the European caravan market, emphasizing lightweight engineering and durable materials. Although production volumes were modest compared with larger mass-market caravan brands, Constructam developed a strong reputation for build quality and distinctive styling.

The late 1960s represented a peak period for Constructam before broader consolidation and industrial shifts reshaped the European caravan industry in the following decades.

Quirks and Pop Culture

The Constructam Condor 2 is often remembered for its distinctive panoramic glazing and aluminum construction. Among classic caravan enthusiasts, Constructam models are appreciated for their balance of structural integrity and visual lightness.

Because of their relatively limited production and robust build, surviving examples have become sought-after in vintage camping circles. The Condor 2 reflects an era when caravan travel symbolized independence and exploration within Europe, aligning with the broader cultural movements of the late 1960s.

Display and preservation:

The vehicle was exhibited at Motorworld Classics Bodensee in 2022. This event, held in Friedrichshafen, is a popular gathering for classic car enthusiasts in southern Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The 2022 edition featured over 800 exhibitors spread across multiple halls and open-air spaces, offering a vibrant mix of vintage automobiles, motorcycles, boats, and aircraft. Visitors could explore restoration workshops, parts markets, and club presentations. A key highlight was the live vehicle auctions and dynamic driving demonstrations on the event grounds. The show reaffirmed its reputation as a hands-on celebration of classic mobility culture.

Conclusion

The 1968 Constructam Condor 2 exemplifies European caravan engineering at a moment of growing leisure mobility. Its lightweight aluminum construction, stable towing characteristics, and modular interior design reflect a deliberate focus on practicality and durability. Visually modern and technically thoughtful, the Condor 2 remains an important example of Belgian caravan manufacturing during the height of 1960s touring culture.

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