Mark Nelson has taken a vintage British pickup truck and modified it into something truly spectacular. Wait, a British pickup truck? You heard that correctly. Despite being a staple of the market in the United States, there was once a time when Britain was home to a few pickup truck brands of its own. The sight of one today may cause the average Brit to take a second glance, but not Mark.

A Classic British Pickup Truck That puts its American Cousins to Shame

Commer, a British vehicle manufacturer known for producing trucks and vans, was founded in 1908 but ceased operations in 1978. Mark had essentially uncovered a hidden gem. The rarity and British heritage of the vehicle posed a challenge, but it also presented a chance to restore it into something truly special—something that could stand proudly among iconic American pickups.

The English roofer stumbled across a 1956 Commer for sale at the side of the road years ago. Its unique design caught his eye, and he began making plans to remodel it. Pickups never really gained popularity in the UK, unlike their American counterparts, where they’re cultural icons. Yet Mark, with a love for American classics, saw an opportunity to create something different.

The transformation wasn’t just about raw power but also about showcasing the craftsmanship behind every detail. Mark’s upgrades include a blower camshaft, hydraulic roller lifters, and ARP bolt sets, enhancing both performance and durability. The chrome alternator and high-torque starting motor add visual appeal while ensuring reliability. It’s clear this truck was built with a perfect blend of muscle and finesse.

Beyond the specs and raw horsepower, Mark’s Commer is a love letter to British engineering and a nod to American muscle. It represents years of dedication, blending the best of both worlds into a unique piece of motoring art. Its bright, bold presence and throaty engine roar make it a standout on any road it graces.

Mark Nelson's 1956 Commer pickup:

• Engine: Small-block Chevy 350

• Performance Enhancements:

  • Blower camshaft

  • Comp roller rockers

  • Comp Cams pushrods

  • Hydraulic roller lifters

  • Competition Cam valve springs

  • ARP bolt set

• Ignition & Charging:

  • MSD distributor

  • Chrome alternator

• Powertrain:

  • High torque starting motor

  • March pulleys and brackets

• Cooling System:

  • Moroso racing water pump

  • Mr Gasket head gasket

When he bought the truck, it was powered by a modest Rover 2.6L straight six engine producing around 130hp, paired with a three-speed auto box. Fast forward five years, and Mark’s Commer is no longer a quaint British utility vehicle. Under its hood now resides a roaring small-block Chevy 350, a testament to his relentless efforts in turning this forgotten classic into a road-going powerhouse.

Built to Stun and Perform

A Unique Find: The British Pickup

Whether cruising down the motorway or stealing the show at car meets, Mark’s pickup truck isn’t just a modified vehicle—it’s a statement. It proves that British classics, with the right touch, can go toe-to-toe with their American cousins, and in some cases, even put them to shame.

Transforming a Forgotten Gem

Mark fondly recalls one of his best moments behind the wheel—overtaking a Ferrari on the motorway and catching the astonished expressions of its occupants. Moments like these capture the essence of his project: the ability to shock and impress, not just with its appearance but its performance too.

More Than Just a Truck

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