After a decade and a half in retirement, the "Comet" label was reintroduced in 1986.
Again, the model was intended specifically for export markets (primarily in the developing world), with simplified equipment, fewer gears, and a sturdy construction.
The design is an all-metal version of the C44 Roadrunner, again simplified in order to make local assembly easier.
The design consists of six major pressings, and was designed so as to allow for hand welding on a simple jig.
The chassis is made of straight rails.
The six-wheeled version is called the "Super Comet".
The Comet was part of a new rationalised range and replaced the Terrier, Boxer, Reiver, Landmaster, and Clydesdale models - although there was some resistance to retiring these classic model names in markets where they had a good reputation.
Leyland's previous "export special", the Landmaster, had been of a bonneted design, but Leyland determined that the bonneted design was becoming less favored across developing markets.

Models ranging from 9 to 13 long tons (9,100 to 13,200 kg) received the 115 hp (86 kW) 6-98 NV engine.
The 14 long tons (14,200 kg) has the 140 hp (100 kW) Leyland 402, while the heavier 16 long tons (16,300 kg) model and the Super Comets have the 160 hp (120 kW) Leyland 411.
With only five speeds, the top speed of a 1986 12-tonne Comet is a mere 54 mph (87 km/h), but this was more than sufficient for conditions in the markets targeted.
The primary markets intended for the Comet were English-speaking countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and also some Middle Eastern markets.
The Caribbean, Latin America, and Singapore also received some Comets.
After a decade and a half in retirement, the "Comet" label was reintroduced in 1986. Again, the model was intended specifically for export markets (primarily in the developing world), with simplified equipment, fewer gears, and a sturdy construction. The design is an all-metal version of the C44 Roadrunner, again simplified in order to make local assembly easier. The design consists of six major pressings, and was designed so as to allow for hand welding on a simple jig. The chassis is made of straight rails. The six-wheeled version is called the "Super Comet". The Comet was part of a new rationalised range and replaced the Terrier, Boxer, Reiver, Landmaster, and Clydesdale models - although there was some resistance to retiring these classic model names in markets where they had a good reputation. Leyland's previous "export special", the Landmaster, had been of a bonneted design, but Leyland determined that the bonneted design was becoming less favored across developing markets.
Models ranging from 9 to 13 long tons (9,100 to 13,200 kg) received the 115 hp (86 kW) 6-98 NV engine. The 14 long tons (14,200 kg) has the 140 hp (100 kW) Leyland 402, while the heavier 16 long tons (16,300 kg) model and the Super Comets have the 160 hp (120 kW) Leyland 411. With only five speeds, the top speed of a 1986 12-tonne Comet is a mere 54 mph (87 km/h), but this was more than sufficient for conditions in the markets targeted. The primary markets intended for the Comet were English-speaking countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and also some Middle Eastern markets. The Caribbean, Latin America, and Singapore also received some Comets.
Leyland Comet