Description
The Berkeley Sports SA 322 was a small, lightweight sports car produced by Berkeley Cars, a British company known for manufacturing microcars and small sports cars in the 1950s and early 1960s. The Berkeley Sports SA 322 was introduced in 1956 and was one of the early models from the company, which was known for its innovative approach to car design.
The SA 322 was powered by a 322cc two-cylinder, two-stroke engine manufactured by Anzani. This engine produced around 15 horsepower, which might seem modest, but given the car’s very light weight—around 605 pounds (275 kilograms)—it provided a lively performance. The car was capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, making it quite zippy for its size.
The design of the Berkeley Sports SA 322 was distinctive, with its fiberglass body, a material that was relatively novel in car production at the time. The body was mounted on a simple yet effective ladder-frame chassis. The car had a compact, low-slung design with seating for two, and it featured a minimalist approach to both the exterior and interior. The open-top design added to the sporty feel of the vehicle, making it an appealing option for those seeking an affordable and fun-to-drive sports car.
Despite its small size and engine, the SA 322 was noted for its nimble handling, thanks to its lightweight construction and independent suspension system. The car’s small size also made it economical to run, with low fuel consumption and easy maintenance, which added to its appeal during the post-war period when affordable motoring was in demand.
The Berkeley Sports SA 322 was produced in limited numbers, and while it was not a high-performance car by the standards of larger sports cars, it earned a niche following for its charm, innovation, and the sheer fun it offered to drivers. Berkeley Cars continued to produce a range of small sports cars before the company eventually ceased operations in 1960. Today, the Berkeley Sports SA 322 is considered a collectible classic, appreciated for its unique design and place in British motoring history.