1972 Gilbern Invader Mk3

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Highlights

  • Comprehensively restored over a five-year period, completed in early 2024
  • Proven on tour with two return trips to Le Mans in recent years without fault
  • Recently fitted with new brakes, shock absorbers and tires
  • The only car ever mass-produced in Wales

The Appeal

Wales is not best known for automobile manufacturing, but the country's sole attempt, the Gilbern Invader, was remarkably accomplished. 

Hand-built with a tubular steel chassis and fiberglass bodies in Llantwit Fardre, Pontypridd, and powered by Ford's 3.0-liter Essex V6, the Invader Mk3 was a supremely capable sporting coupe. Very few survive today, making any sighting a noteworthy occasion. The seller notes this is likely to be the only Gilbern you'll see at any car meet or show.
This example has benefited from a thorough five-year restoration completed in early 2024, encompassing a repaint, interior retrim in black vinyl with blue stitching, chassis treatment and a general mechanical overhaul. Since completion, the car has been far from a garage ornament; it has completed two return trips to Le Mans without missing a beat, demonstrating that the work carried out was done to a standard that stands up to serious use. Further recent investment includes new Yokohama tires, new brake rotors and pads all around, correct rear shock absorbers and new inertia seat belts.

The seller describes the car as without fault during their ownership, stating that it starts on the button, drives very well and sounds great through its stainless steel exhaust. For those seeking a rare, usable and characterful classic with real talking-point appeal, this Invader Mk3 warrants close attention.
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Key Information

  • Mileage: 51,176 miles (indicated)
  • Country of registration: United Kingdom
  • Technical inspection status: MOT/road tax exempt
  • Technical specs: 3.0-liter Ford Essex V6 gasoline, four-speed manual
  • Paperwork: V5C present

The Detail

  • Restored over a five-year period, completed in early 2024, including repaint, interior retrim, chassis treatment and general overhaul
  • Repainted approximately four years ago; the seller notes the fiberglass body has the odd small crack but states the paint finish is otherwise very good
  • Interior retrimmed approximately four years ago in black vinyl with blue stitching
  • Four new Yokohama tires fitted
  • New inertia seat belts fitted
  • Straight-through stainless steel exhaust fitted
  • New correct rear shock absorbers fitted
  • New brake rotors and pads fitted all around
  • The seller states the car is mechanically very good and starts on the button
BEFORE YOU BUY 
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
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✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time a listing is posted on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own  full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. 
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase. 
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Pre-bids

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Auction Details

  • Year1972
  • MakeGilbern
  • ModelInvader
  • ColourBlue
  • Odometer51,176 Miles
  • Engine size3000cc
  • TransmissionManual, 4 speed
  • Steering positionRight Hand Drive
  • Fuel typePetrol
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownDorking
  • CountySurrey
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

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1972 Gilbern Invader Mk3
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