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Gilbern Cars: A Marque of Distinction

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Gilbern Cars was a British automobile manufacturer that produced a range of sports cars, GTs, and rally cars from 1959 to 1974. The company was founded by three engineers, Giles Smith, Bernard Friese, and Bob Bean, who shared a passion for designing and building high-performance vehicles.

Gilbern Cars

by Michael Burgess

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5243 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	141 pages

Gilbern Cars quickly gained a reputation for producing well-engineered and stylish automobiles that offered excellent value for money. The company's cars were particularly popular with enthusiasts and racers, and they achieved considerable success in both national and international motorsport events.

In this comprehensive guide, renowned automotive historian Michael Burgess provides an in-depth look at the history, models, and legacy of Gilbern Cars. This lavishly illustrated volume is a must-have for any enthusiast of classic British automobiles.

The Early Years

The origins of Gilbern Cars can be traced back to 1959, when Giles Smith, Bernard Friese, and Bob Bean founded their company in Llantwit Fardre, South Wales. The trio had previously worked together at AC Cars, where they were involved in the development of the legendary AC Cobra.

Gilbern's first car was the Genie, a small sports car that was powered by a Ford 105E Anglia engine. The Genie was a well-received car, and it quickly established Gilbern as a force to be reckoned with in the British automotive industry.

In 1962, Gilbern introduced the GT, a larger and more powerful sports car that was based on the Genie. The GT was powered by a Ford V8 engine, and it was capable of reaching speeds of over 100 mph. The GT was a popular car with both road and racing enthusiasts, and it helped to solidify Gilbern's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance automobiles.

The Golden Age

The mid-1960s marked the golden age of Gilbern Cars. The company introduced a number of new models, including the Invader, the Stalker, and the Essex. These cars were all powered by Ford V8 engines, and they were capable of delivering impressive performance.

The Invader was a four-seater sports car that was based on the GT. The Invader was a popular choice with families who wanted a car that was both stylish and practical. The Stalker was a two-seater sports car that was designed for racing. The Stalker was a very successful car on the track, and it won a number of races in its class.

The Essex was a range of grand tourer cars that was based on the Invader. The Essex was a luxurious car that was well-suited for long journeys. The Essex was a popular choice with wealthy motorists, and it helped to establish Gilbern as a luxury automobile manufacturer.

The Decline

The late 1960s and early 1970s saw a decline in the fortunes of Gilbern Cars. The company was hit hard by the oil crisis, and it struggled to compete with the larger and more established British automobile manufacturers. In 1973, Gilbern was placed into receivership, and production of its cars ceased in 1974.

Despite its short lifespan, Gilbern Cars left a lasting legacy in the British automotive industry. The company's cars were well-engineered and stylish, and they offered excellent value for money. Gilbern Cars were also successful in motorsport, and they helped to raise the profile of British automobiles on the international stage.

The Legacy

Today, Gilbern Cars are highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts. The company's cars are seen as a symbol of British craftsmanship and engineering, and they are often featured in classic car shows and events.

The legacy of Gilbern Cars lives on in the many cars that are still on the road today. These cars are a testament to the skill and passion of the engineers who created them. Gilbern Cars are a reminder of a time when British automobiles were at their peak, and they continue to inspire enthusiasts around the world.

Michael Burgess's book, Gilbern Cars, is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to the history, models, and legacy of this iconic British automobile manufacturer. This lavishly illustrated volume is a must-have for any enthusiast of classic British cars.

Gilbern Cars Gilbern Cars Michael Burgess