Buckle (Australia) - AllCarIndex

Buckle Motors Pty Ltd was an Australian automotive manufacturer based in Sydney, New South Wales, that operated from 1955 to 1961. The company was founded by Bill Buckle, who took over the family car retailing business and shifted its focus towards vehicle production, inspired by the potential of fibreglass technology.

In 1955, Buckle introduced his first prototype, a roadster that utilized components from the Ford Zephyr Six. This prototype laid the groundwork for further developments, leading to the launch of the Buckle 2.5-litre coupe in 1957. The coupe featured a 94-inch (2387 mm) wheelbase and weighed 890 kg. While it primarily used parts from the Ford Zephyr Mk 2, it incorporated innovations such as a transverse leaf front suspension and options for twin carburettors and a locally manufactured overdrive unit. Despite the high standard of development for a fibreglass car of its time, the project faced financial difficulties, resulting in the production of only about 20 units before it was discontinued.

After the closure of Buckle Motors, the company made a brief return in 1966 with the Buckle Mini-Monaco, a modified version of the Mini that featured a fibreglass roof and a more reclined driving position. However, this model did not achieve significant commercial success.