Berkeley cars were produced between October 1956 and December 1960 by Berkeley Coachworks in Biggleswade, Great Britain. Designed by Laurie Bond, the original Berkeley Sports was a lightweight two-seat sports car powered by a 322 c.c. Anzani two-stroke twin. Early problems with supply and performance resulted in a change to the 328 c.c. Excelsior Talisman Twin two-stroke. The car was unusual at the time of its launch in its use of a transverse engine with front wheel drive and a complete fiberglass monocoque hull reinforced locally by light aluminum sections.

Endowed with super handling and roadholding by virtue of its all independent suspension, low center of gravity, and oversize brakes, public demand called for a more powerful engine. Again, Excelsior motorcycle company supplied the answer with a 492 c.c. three cylinder two-stroke talisman engine of 30 h.p., more than enough to propel the 700 pound car to near the century mark, matching looks with performance. In an attempt to increase sales a lengthened four passenger model, the Foursome, was conceived although only 22 were built. For shear terror, one could opt for the Royal Enfield powered B95 and B105 cars, introduced in 1958. With over 40 h.p. speeds above 100 m.p.h. were attainable.

About 2000 Berkeleys were produced, some 4 wheeled, most being the T60, a 328 c.c. 3 wheeled berkeley. Being taxed as a motorcycle it became a way for the motorcyclist to come in out of the elements, with little increase in cost. International fame came in race wins at Verona, Monza, LeMans, and the Mille Miglia against rivals such as Abarth and Fiat, in the late 50's and early 60's

The Berkeley Enthusiasts Club
Membership secretary
Mike Rounsville-Smith
41 Goresewood Road
St Johns
Woking
Surrey
GU21 1UZ
Great Britain
Phone: 01483 475330

The Berkeley Newsletter
c/o Gerron Hite
P.O. Box 162282
Austin, Texas
78716-2282