Buckle (Australia) - AllCarIndex

Buckle Motors Pty Ltd was an Australian automotive manufacturer that operated from 1955 to 1961, based in Sydney, New South Wales. The company was founded by Bill Buckle, who transitioned from the family car retailing business to vehicle production, motivated by the advancements in fibreglass technology.

In 1955, Buckle introduced his first prototype, a roadster that utilized components from the Ford Zephyr Six. This prototype served as a foundation for subsequent developments, culminating in 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 incorporated parts from the Ford Zephyr Mk 2, it also included 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 at the time, the project encountered financial difficulties, leading to the production of only about 20 units before its discontinuation.

Following 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. During its operational years, Buckle also produced other models, including the Dart roadster, which was notable for its lightweight design at 380 kg and was marketed as an affordable sporty option. The company produced a total of around 5,000 units, including more than 700 Darts, before halting production in 1962.