Barrington (United Kingdom)

Barrington Motors Ltd was a British automobile manufacturer based in Sheffield, operational from 1932 to 1936. The company was founded by Barrington Budd, who had a background as a competitive rider of Scott 2-stroke motorcycles. His passion for engineering led him to design a 3-cylinder 2-stroke car engine, which he completed in 1929.

After extensive testing of this engine in an old Austin Seven for over two years, Budd developed a prototype car. This vehicle featured a 2/4-seater open body, which he constructed using aluminum panelling over a lightweight ash frame. The chassis was produced by Rubery Owen, and many components were manufactured by Budd himself. Although the initial 782cc engine provided satisfactory performance, it was found inadequate for a full 4-seater body, prompting the development of a second prototype with an engine exceeding 900cc, known as the Nimble Nine.

Despite his efforts, Budd faced challenges in bringing his designs to market. Holbrooks Coachworks declined to supply the desired 2-door saloon body unless payment was made upfront, resulting in the Nimble Nine being operated only in chassis form. After 1936, Barrington Motors ceased operations, although Budd made attempts to sell his designs to larger manufacturers such as Austin and Citroën. He continued to use the first prototype car until World War II, during which he covered over 100,000 miles.