Canstel (Australia) - AllCarIndex

Canstel was an Australian automotive brand that operated from 1970 to 1989, specializing in the production of fibreglass mouldings. The company was based in Taren Point, New South Wales, and was associated with G.S. Motor Bodies Pty Ltd, located in Carlton, New South Wales.

The Canstel brand was known for its clubman-type vehicles, which were designed by Allan McCann and Graham Steele. The initial offering was a kit that allowed enthusiasts to fit the Canstel body onto a Triumph Herald chassis. As the availability of Triumph Heralds diminished, the company introduced the 1972 Mk 2, which featured a revised chassis specifically designed to accommodate Herald components.

However, stricter design regulations ultimately led to the cessation of production after 39 units of the Mk 2 were manufactured. In 1978, the Mk 3 was launched, which was sold as a complete car by Terry O’Neill of G.S. Motor Bodies. This model was notable for its use of Mazda rotary and Toyota Granda engines. By 1988, the Canstel vehicles were updated to accommodate engines suitable for unleaded fuel, and an additional 55 units were produced before the brand's discontinuation.