Gilbern Invader Mk II (1970-72)
Overview: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** was a crucial model for **Gilbern Cars**, representing an evolution of the original Invader while refining the company’s approach to performance and design. Introduced in **1970**, the Mk 2 featured several improvements that made it more competitive in the British sports car market.
**Significance to Gilbern**
- **Refined Engineering**: The Mk 2 retained the **Ford Essex V6 engine** but introduced **Cortina-derived front suspension**, improving handling and ride quality.
- **Increased Production**: Gilbern ramped up production, making the Mk 2 more widely available than earlier models.
- **Luxury & Performance Balance**: The Mk 2 was positioned as a **high-performance grand tourer**, offering a blend of speed and comfort.
- **Market Expansion**: The model helped Gilbern reach a broader audience, competing with cars like the **Reliant Scimitar GTE** and **Triumph Stag**.
- **Foundation for the Mk 3**: The Mk 2’s refinements paved the way for the **Invader Mk 3**, which became Gilbern’s final production model.
Despite its improvements, Gilbern continued to face financial challenges, and the Mk 2 couldn’t secure the company’s long-term survival. However, it remains a **highly collectible classic**, appreciated for its rarity and Welsh heritage.
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Production Total: The Gilbern Invader Mk II had a total production run of 212 cars.
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Price New: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2**, introduced in **1970**, was priced at approximately **£2,450** when new in the UK. This positioned it as a premium offering among British sports cars of the era, competing with models like the **Reliant Scimitar GTE** and **Triumph Stag**.
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Sales: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** had a modest level of success but was never a high-volume seller. With just over **600 units** produced between **1970 and 1972**, it remained a niche vehicle aimed at enthusiasts rather than the mass market.
While the Mk 2 refined the Invader formula with **Cortina-derived front suspension** and a **Ford Essex V6 engine**, Gilbern struggled financially, and production remained limited. The company’s small-scale operation meant it couldn’t compete with larger manufacturers, leading to its eventual closure in **1974**.
Today, the Mk 2 is a **rare collector’s item**, appreciated for its **Welsh heritage** and **hand-built craftsmanship**.
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Rivals: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** competed with several British sports cars in the early **1970s**, each with its own pricing strategy. Here’s a look at some of its main rivals and their approximate new prices in the UK at the time:
- **Reliant Scimitar GTE (1970–1986)** – Around **£2,500** when launched.
- **Ford Capri Mk 1 (1969–1974)** – Approximately **£1,100** for base models.
- **Triumph Stag (1970–1977)** – Around **£2,000** new.
- **TVR 2500M (1972–1977)** – Estimated at **£2,300**.
- **Lotus Elan +2 (1967–1975)** – Roughly **£2,700**.
These prices varied based on specifications, optional extras, and dealer pricing. The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2**, being a low-volume, hand-built car, was priced competitively within this range at approximately **£2,450**.
Would you like to explore how these cars compare in terms of performance and rarity today? You can also check out a [price guide](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/gilbern/invader) for more insights!
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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** was marketed as a **hand-built, performance-oriented sports car**, emphasizing exclusivity and craftsmanship rather than mass-market appeal. Here’s how Gilbern approached its advertising and marketing strategy:
**Marketing Strategy**
- **Target Audience**: The Invader Mk 2 was aimed at **enthusiasts and professionals** looking for a stylish, high-performance car with a fiberglass body.
- **Limited Production Appeal**: Gilbern highlighted the car’s **low-volume production**, making it a rare and desirable alternative to mainstream British sports cars.
- **Motorsport Influence**: Racing connections helped boost the Invader’s reputation, with some models modified for competition.
- **Word-of-Mouth & Enthusiast Publications**: Instead of large-scale advertising, Gilbern relied on **enthusiast magazines** and **motorsport exposure** to attract buyers.
- **Welsh Identity**: The company proudly marketed itself as **Wales’ only post-war car manufacturer**, adding to its uniqueness.
**Historical Advertisements**
- **Magazine Features**: The Invader Mk 2 was featured in publications like **Classic & Sports Car**, showcasing its performance and craftsmanship.
- **Dealer Promotions**: Some UK dealerships promoted the Invader as a **luxurious yet affordable alternative** to mainstream GT cars.
- **Motorsport Coverage**: Racing driver **Peter Cottrell** played a role in promoting Gilbern models, further enhancing their appeal.
Would you like to see examples of period advertisements or explore how its rivals marketed their cars? You can also check out a [buyer's guide](https://www.practicalclassics.co.uk/articles/buying/buyers-brief-gilbern-invader-1969-1973/) for more insights!
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Rarity & Collector Appeal: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** is a rare and highly collectible classic car, being one of the last models produced by **Gilbern Cars** before the company ceased operations in **1974**. With just over **600 units** built, it holds a special place in British automotive history.
**Rarity**
- **Limited Production**: The Mk 2 was produced in small numbers, making it significantly rarer than mainstream British sports cars of the era.
- **Survival Rate**: Many Mk 2s have survived, thanks to their **fiberglass bodies**, but exact numbers are difficult to verify.
- **Club Support**: The **Gilbern Owners Club** actively tracks remaining cars and provides restoration support.
**Collector Appeal**
- **Unique Design**: The Mk 2 featured a **refined body shape**, improving its stance and handling.
- **Ford Components**: It incorporated **Cortina-derived front suspension** and a **Ford Essex V6 engine**, enhancing reliability.
- **Market Value**: Prices have fluctuated, with recent sales ranging from **£8,100 to £11,209**.
- **Historical Significance**: As Wales’ only post-war car manufacturer, Gilbern holds a unique place in British automotive history.
Would you like to explore auction results or restoration projects for this model? You can also check out a [buyer's guide](https://www.practicalclassics.co.uk/articles/buying/buyers-brief-gilbern-invader-1969-1973/) for more insights!
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Recorded in UK 2025
The exact number of **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** cars recorded in the UK in **2025** isn't readily available. However, sources indicate that the total production run of the model was **212 cars**. The **Gilbern Owners Club** maintains records of many individual cars and provides support for enthusiasts, so they might have more detailed information on how many remain in the UK.
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Target Age Group: The **Gilbern Invader Mk 2** was primarily targeted at **enthusiasts and professionals** in the early **1970s**, particularly those looking for a stylish, performance-oriented car with a fiberglass body and Ford-derived mechanicals.
**Target Age Group**
- **Young Professionals (25–40 years old)** – Those seeking a unique, hand-built sports car with exclusivity and performance.
- **Motorsport Enthusiasts** – Some Invaders were modified for racing, attracting drivers interested in competitive performance.
- **Classic Car Collectors** – Today, the Mk 2 appeals to collectors who appreciate its rarity and Welsh heritage.
- **Restoration Hobbyists** – Many surviving Invaders require restoration, making them popular among DIY mechanics and classic car restorers.
Would you like to explore how the Mk 2 compares to its rivals in terms of appeal today? You can also check out a [buyer's guide](https://www.practicalclassics.co.uk/articles/buying/buyers-brief-gilbern-invader-1969-1973/) for more insights!
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Influence of Target Age Group: The **target age group** for the **Gilbern Invader Mk 2**—primarily **young professionals and motorsport enthusiasts**—played a significant role in shaping its design, marketing, and long-term appeal.
**Influence on Design & Features**
- The Mk 2 was built with a **fiberglass body**, making it lightweight and agile—ideal for younger drivers seeking performance.
- Its **Ford Essex V6 engine** provided strong power, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted a balance of speed and reliability.
- The option for **racing modifications** attracted motorsport enthusiasts, reinforcing its reputation in competitive circles.
**Impact on Marketing Strategy**
- Gilbern relied on **word-of-mouth** and **motorsport exposure** rather than large-scale advertising, targeting enthusiasts who valued exclusivity.
- The car was featured in **enthusiast magazines**, helping it gain traction among younger buyers.
- The **low-volume production** made it desirable for those seeking a unique, handcrafted sports car.
**Legacy & Collector Appeal**
- Many original buyers were **young professionals**, and today, the Mk 2 is sought after by **classic car collectors** who appreciate its rarity.
- The **Gilbern Owners Club** continues to attract enthusiasts, many of whom restore and preserve surviving models.
- The Mk 2’s influence extended to later models, reinforcing Gilbern’s tradition of performance-oriented cars.
Would you like to explore how the Mk 2 compares to its rivals in terms of collector value today? You can also check out a [buyer's guide](https://www.practicalclassics.co.uk/articles/buying/buyers-brief-gilbern-invader-1969-1973/) for more insights!
The Gilbern Invader Mk II, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are a few issues that owners and enthusiasts often encounter:
1. **Chassis Corrosion**: The steel chassis can suffer from rust, particularly in the side ladder sections behind the sills.
2. **Fiberglass Body**: The fiberglass body can develop cracks and imperfections over time.
3. **Electrical Issues**: As with many older cars, the electrical system can be prone to faults and may require rewiring.
4. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components, especially those borrowed from other models like the MGB, can wear out and need replacement.
5. **Hot Starting Problems**: Some owners report difficulties starting the engine when it's hot, which can be due to various factors such as fuel vaporization or electrical issues.
These issues are typical for a car of its age and can be addressed with proper maintenance and restoration.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Gilbern Invader had three generations:
1. **Mk I**: Introduced in 1969, based on the Gilbern Genie but with several improvements.
2. **Mk II**: Launched in 1971, featuring a practical estate model.
3. **Mk III**: Released in 1972, with Cortina front suspension and slightly different bodywork.
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Engines
The Gilbern Invader Mk II was available with the following engine options:
1. **3.0-litre Ford Essex V6**: This engine was the primary option and provided robust performance for the car.
2. **2.5-litre Ford Essex V6**: This smaller engine was available initially but was soon phased out due to a lack of interest.
These engines contributed to the Invader Mk II's reputation as a capable and enjoyable sports car.
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Performance
The Gilbern Invader Mk II offered impressive performance for its time, with the following specifications for both engine versions:
1. **3.0-litre Ford Essex V6**:
- **Power**: 141 bhp (105 kW) at 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 245 Nm (181 lbft) at 3500 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 120 mph (193 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 8.5 seconds
2. **2.5-liter Ford Essex V6**:
- **Power**: Slightly lower than the 3.0-liter version, but specific figures are less commonly documented
- **Top Speed**: Slightly lower than the 3.0-liter version
- **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Slightly slower than the 3.0-litre version
These specifications made the Gilbern Invader Mk II a competitive and desirable sports car in its era.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for a Gilbern Invader, you have a couple of good options:
1. **Gilbern Owners Club**: They have a comprehensive spares service for Gilbern models, including the Genie. They offer a wide range of parts, from body panels to mechanical components. You can contact their Spares Secretary, Brian Gent, at 07850-001186 or email briangent57@gmail.com.
2. **MEV Spares**: They provide various parts for the Gilbern Invader, including clutch, brakes, and hydraulics.
As for garage services in Northern Ireland to maintain your Gilbern Invader, here are a few options:
1. **East Hills Garage** in Belfast: They offer a range of services, including routine maintenance and repairs.
2. **McMillan Specialist Cars** in Antrim: They specialize in classic car restoration and maintenance.
3. **Eurofix Car Repairs** in Dunmurry and Belfast: They have a passion for classic car restoration and offer a variety of services.
These garages should be able to help you keep your Gilbern Invader in top condition.
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Racing
The Gilbern Invader did compete in motorsport, particularly in club racing and hill climbs. While it wasn't a dominant force in professional racing circuits, its lightweight fiberglass body and powerful V6 engine made it a competitive choice for amateur racers and enthusiasts.
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Valuations
The value of a Gilbern Invader can vary depending on its condition, history, and specific model. Here are some recent examples:
1. **3.0-liter Ford Essex V6**:
- A 1972 Gilbern Invader Mk III was recently listed for around £14,999.
- Another 1970 Gilbern Invader sold for approximately £8,100.
2. **2.5-liter Ford Essex V6**:
- A 1971 Gilbern Invader Estate sold for around £11,209.
These values can fluctuate based on the car's condition, mileage, and any restoration work done. If you're looking to buy or sell one, it's a good idea to check with classic car auction houses or specialist dealers for the most up-to-date valuations.
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