1986 Mahindra 500D

by Hari Mekoth
(Panaji, Goa, India)

This is my 1986 Mahindra 500 D (produced between 1974 and 1990). It is based on the CJ-3b and locally manufactured in India by Mahindra and Mahindra.

Changes include an extended wheelbase, B275 International Engine(38hp), and 2 wheel drive(4wd variants were sold as well). Owing to the fact that these vehicles were versatile and inexpensive to run, they were used as cheap transport, especially in rural and semi-urban regions.

Another use it was often put to was transportation for large families. Its rated capacity is 6 persons, but it isn't uncommon to find 10 or even 15 people in/on/hanging off one!

The jeep you see in these pictures was bought from a family who used it for over 10 years, hence the top and doors, both being aftermarket additions. The interior also is pretty well upholstered with velvet and foam.


Larry's Comment: Hari...from the photos your MM500D looks to be in very good condition.

Do you have any difficulty finding replacement parts for your jeep? I only ask because I frequently get other M&M jeep owners asking about where to get parts for their rigs...and being from the USA I have no reliable sources to suggest to them from here.