Following WWII microcars became a popular alternative to motorcycle travel, offering protection from the elements and comfort for a second person. Since they often had only three wheels many also avoided more costly tax and licensing requirements.

One of the players who came late to the game but with a well sorted entry was Berkley. Berkley Coachworks located in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, England were one of the largest caravan manufacturers in Europe. They had developed considerable expertise working with fiberglass and wanted to fill the gap in the seasonal caravan market when they teamed up with Laurence Bond, creator of the Bond Minicar (DUK 2015/1). Both Charles Panter, the owner of Berkeley Coachworks, and Lawrence Bond were keen to produce a car which was not only economical but attractive, fast, and affordable.

When their first car, the SA322 Sports, debuted at the London Motor Show in 1956 it was very well received. The fourwheel, two-seat roadster was powered by a 322cc two cylinder, two-stroke, air cooled engine producing 15hp. In 1957 an improved version with 18hp was launched, the SE328 Sports, which was not only popular in Europe but was exported to the United States as well. With the SE492 Sports of 1958 power was increased again. A three-cylinder 492cc two-stroke air cooled engine pushed this sharp little ride to 80mph. In March of 1959 the model B105 boasted a twin cylinder, four-stroke 692cc engine under the bonnet, giving it an honest 100 mph!

Surprisingly late in both Berkeley’s history and the microcar boom the company came out with their only three-wheel offering, the T60. In production from September 1959-December 1960 this model was an instant success in the home market and 1800 cars rolled out of the factory in those 16 months.

The Berkeley Bandit was announced for 1961. With its four cylinder, four-stroke, water cooled engine this was the car designed to propel Berkeley into the mainstream sports car market, but alas it was not to be. The Austin-Healey Sprite came out in 1958, the Mini in 1959, then the caravan market collapsed in 1960. Berkeley’s fragile financial footing could not sustain car production and they became more a victim of unfortunate circumstances than the product they produced. Having no alternative, Berkeley shuttered all operations on 12 December 1960.

During its five year run Berkeley manufactured over 4100 cars, more than fulfilling the vision for an attractive, sporty, economical car. Today a very active Berkeley Enthusiasts Club keeps the faith and preserved the cars they love and enjoy.

Reprinted from British Boots & Bonnets Chronicle— September 2019 issue.