1954 Buckler MK V

Lot details
Registration No: KBL 56
Chassis No: S13982
Mot Expiry: None

Allegedly feeling that potential customers would be put off by a MKI designation, Derek Buckler christened his inaugural production model the MKV. Introduced in 1949, it drew heavily on the 'Buckler Special' with which he had won some 200 awards contesting everything from trials, hillclimbs and sprints to circuit races and even economy runs. Based around a multi-tubular chrome molybdenum spaceframe chassis (something of a novelty at the time), the MKV utilised Ford sidevalve running gear. Bodied in aluminium and later fibreglass, it was among the first cars to be made available in kit form (thus avoiding swingeing levels of contemporary purchase tax). Establishing an enviable reputation among competitors and sportscar enthusiasts alike, the eminently tuneable MKV lasted until 1955 by which time several hundred had been sold. Interestingly, Buckler made gear sets for other companies including Lotus (while, the firm was also commissioned to build the first Brabham MRD racing chassis).

Currently undergoing a cosmetic refurbishment, this particular example will reportedly have been "painted black and MOT'd by the time of auction". Said to "run well", its 933cc four-cylinder engine is allied to three-speed manual transmission. Sporting a Buckler badge which we are informed the marque founder only issued to those built-up kits "he had personally inspected and approved", 'KBL 56' is trimmed with maroon vinyl upholstery. Wonderfully nostalgic, this rare 1950s sportscar is offered for sale with "invoices from Buckler (signed over a 2p stamp), Buckler specification handbook and period special builder's guide etc" not to mention parts bills from the likes of "Morris Garages, Hartwells and Dagenham Motors etc".

PLEASE NOTE: THIS LOT DOES NOT HAVE A CURRENT MOT CERTIFICATE. FURTHERMORE, THE VENDOR INFORMS US THAT THE BUCKLER REQUIRES ATTENTION TO ITS WIRING ETC