Description

The Berkeley T 60 was introduced in 1959 and holds the distinction of being Britain’s first production three-wheeled car to feature a fiberglass monocoque body. Designed during a time when Berkeley Cars was looking to expand its reach and tap into the three-wheeler market—especially appealing to UK buyers who could drive such vehicles with a motorcycle license—the T 60 was a clever blend of economy, lightweight engineering, and sporty charm.

The car featured a compact, aerodynamic body made of fiberglass, sitting low to the ground with a minimalist, open-top roadster style. It had two front wheels and a single rear wheel, driven by a two-stroke motorcycle engine. The early models used a 328cc Excelsior twin-cylinder engine producing around 18 horsepower, while later versions offered larger engines and slight refinements.

Despite its small engine and unusual layout, the T 60 was praised for its agility and spirited handling. Thanks to its extremely low weight—just over 300 kg—it delivered surprisingly brisk performance for a microcar of its class. The minimalist cockpit featured basic instrumentation and two bucket seats, offering a raw, engaging driving experience.

Berkeley aimed the T 60 at budget-conscious enthusiasts and commuters alike, promoting it as a sporty, affordable option with low running costs. It quickly gained popularity among those looking for a fun and economical second vehicle. However, like other models from the company, production was cut short due to Berkeley’s financial difficulties, with only a few hundred units built before the company folded in 1960.

Today, the T 60 is a rare and quirky collector’s piece, cherished for its unique design, innovative construction, and the sheer charm of its featherweight, no-frills driving character.