Buckingham (Australia)

Buckingham & Ward Moton Pty Ltd was an Australian automotive manufacturer based in Footscray, Victoria, that operated briefly from 1933 to 1934. The company emerged during a challenging economic period, as Australia was grappling with the effects of the Great Depression. Their initial foray into car production began with the 1931 Hamard, which featured a 6-cylinder, 25 horsepower overhead valve engine and a wheelbase of 130 inches (3302 mm). However, due to the economic climate, this model did not lead to further developments at that time.

In 1933, Buckingham introduced the Buckingham 60, a more modest vehicle designed to meet the needs of the era. This model was equipped with a 4-cylinder, 22 horsepower overhead valve engine, displacing 2808 cc, and featured a 3-speed transmission with a wheelbase of 110 inches (2794 mm). The company announced a consortium of local producers to supply all components for this all-Australian car, which reflected a commitment to local manufacturing. Alongside the Buckingham 60, a range of commercial vehicles named Ward, with capacities of up to 1.5 tonnes, was also planned.

The 1933 Melbourne Motor Show showcased the company's efforts, highlighting locally made engine castings and chassis frames. A saloon version of the Buckingham 60, featuring a Whiteman Elite body, was put on the road later that year, while a coupe with an Egan body was displayed at the 1934 Motor Show. Despite the apparent seriousness of their venture, the ongoing social and economic difficulties ultimately hindered their success, leading to the company's quiet dissolution. Nevertheless, the promoters of Buckingham & Ward Moton Pty Ltd continued to pursue their ambitions in the automotive industry, later re-emerging as Pengana Motor Industries before the onset of World War II, during a time when the Australian government was expressing support for local car production.