Gilbern Cars remains a unique chapter in British motoring as the only prominent production car manufacturer native to Wales. Operating from 1959 to 1973 out of Pontypridd, the company specialised in building distinctively upmarket grand tourers with lightweight glass fibre bodywork and robust steel chassis.
Founded by Giles Smith and Bernard Friese, the brand cleverly utilised mechanical components and engines from major British manufacturers like BMC, MG, and Ford. By supplying vehicles primarily as component kits, buyers could entirely evade the hefty UK purchase tax applied to factory-built cars.
Ultimately, the introduction of VAT in 1973 removed the financial loophole for kit cars, forcing the company into liquidation after producing roughly 1,000 vehicles.
Gilbern GT
Distinctively styled 2+2 coupé paired lightweight glass fibre bodywork with a bespoke steel chassis. Used Austin A35 components before upgrading to MGA and MGB engines, offering sporting performance in a practical package.
Years
1959-67
Engine
948/1558/1622/1798cc S4 OHV BMC
Body Style
2-dr coupé
Production
c. 280
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Gilbern Genie
Larger, more powerful grand tourer, which moved the brand upmarket. It featured an angular 2+2 coupé design and a potent Ford Essex V6 engine. With upgraded rear suspension, it delivered refined performance.
Years
1966-70
Engine
2495/2994cc V6 OHV Ford
Body Style
2-dr sports saloon
Production
c. 200
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Photo: Flickr
Gilbern Invader
The final evolution of the Welsh brand. Refining the Genie’s design, retaining the 3.0-litre Ford Essex V6 engine but featuring an improved chassis and larger brakes. Mk III versions added a wider track and updated front suspension.
Years
1969-74
Engine
2994cc V6 OHV Ford
Body Style
2-dr sports saloon
Production
c. 500
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Photo: Flickr
Gilbern Invader GT Estate
Rare 3-door shooting brake variant introduced during the Mk II production run. Retaining the saloon’s 3.0-litre Ford Essex V6 engine, it combined high-speed grand touring with added practicality.
Years
1971-72
Engine
2994cc V6 OHV Ford
Body Style
3-dr estate
Production
104
Power: Weight
Dimensions