1959 Berkley T60 Roadster
Registration no. 859 FYD
Chassis no. 324

'Driving the little Berkeley proved to be a delight... Even at small throttle openings the power available was quite lusty and throughout the throttle range the engine displayed an aptitude for hard work. Acceleration from about one-third throttle opening upwards was impressive. Just how lively the vehicle can be was proved by a standing quarter-mile covered (without a passenger) in 26.6s.' ? The Motor Cycle, 15th October 1959.

Designed by Laurie Bond of Minicar fame, the Berkeley sports car was produced between 1956 and 1961 at Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. Of advanced design, the Berkeley was unique at the time in featuring not only a transverse engine and front wheel drive, but also a glassfibre monocoque bodyshell with localised aluminium reinforcement. The original 322cc Anzani two-stroke twin-cylinder engine was soon dropped in favour of a similar, but more reliable, Excelsior unit, while later developments included the 700cc Royal Enfield-powered B95 and B105 models. Berkeley's most successful model was the Excelsior-powered T60 three-wheeler, 1,780 of which were built between 1959 and 1961.

As well as its surprisingly lively performance, the Berkeley also appealed to Motor Cycle's tester on account of its ample head and legroom for two large adults, generous amount of stowage space, comfortable cruising speed (50mph), excellent braking, and startling fuel economy, an overall figure of just under 60mpg being achieved during the test. Its road manners too came in for favourable comment: 'One of the most endearing characteristics of the Berkeley is its road holding. No matter what antics I performed there was never and indication that I was driving a three-wheeler'. One gets the distinct impression that the tester was reluctant to give it back!

This particular T60 was restored while in the long-term stewardship of a previous (lady) owner. Overall very striking in appearance, and a guaranteed head-turner, it features new red leather upholstery, matching carpets, new hood frame and hood (in black), green canvas tonneau cover, and new Perspex side screens. The car is offered with its original buff logbook and a V5 registration document.