1960 Berkeley Sports SE 328

It is certainly a special little sports car. This Berkeley is a pre-series model with the headlights mounted on the fenders. The paint has withstood the test of time and is in almost perfect condition; the engine runs smoothly. The interior is worth seeing!

The SE328 model was equipped with a 328 cc Excelsior engine producing 18 PS (13 kW; 18 hp). Production ran from January 1957 to April 1958, with chassis numbers ranging from 164 to 1422. Many were exported to the United States, where they sold for approximately $1, 600 (equivalent to $14, 743 today). The manufacturer promoted the number 70, meaning that the car could reach 70 mph (113 km/ h) and achieved an average fuel economy of 70 mpg. The export model was distinguished by its separate headlamps, while on the domestic market they were integrated into the wings, although the export-type lamps could be specified.

Early cars, from January 1957 up to approximately chassis number 476 in June 1957, still used a column-mounted gearshift. During the production run, a Deluxe model was offered that was identical in appearance but featured polished hubcaps and spinners, a tachometer, and twin carburetors. The chassis plate was similar to the Anzani type on the early cars, but was later changed to a printed type mounted on the bulkhead above the master brake cylinder. The designation “SE328” was printed on the printed chassis plate. Most of these cars had a three-speed gearbox similar to the Anzani unit, except for the mounting flanges. All cars had sloping front edges towards the doors.

Motor magazine tested a 1957 Berkeley with the 328 engine and found that it had a top speed of 99. 9 km/ h and accelerated to 80 km/ h in 30. 6 seconds. Fuel consumption of 58. 3 miles per imperial gallon (4. 85 L/ 100 km; 48. 5 mpg-US) was recorded. The test car cost £574 in the home market, including £152 in taxes (equivalent to £14, 148 today).

The SE328 enjoyed considerable success and notoriety in the press due to its involvement in lightweight car racing. Its famous drivers included Pat Moss, who drove one in the 1958 Liège–Brescia–Liège rally for cars up to 500 cc. The Berkeley team—a factory-supported entry of six cars, including BBC commentator Robin Richards—led into Slovenia, but slow climbing in the summer heat exposed their weakness, and Pat was eventually towed back to Italy by another Berkeley. None of the Berkeleys reached the finish.

This car has British registration.