Gilbern Genie (1966-69)

The Gilbern Genie, 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 Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/gilbern/genieinvader/).
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 Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/gilbern/genieinvader/).

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 Genie had only one generation, produced from 1966 to 1969. It was later succeeded by the Gilbern Invader, which had multiple iterations.
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Engines
The Gilbern Genie was available with two engine options:

1. **3.0-liter Ford Essex V6**
2. **2.5-liter Ford Essex V6**

These engines provided the Genie with a good balance of performance and reliability.
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Performance
The Gilbern Genie offered impressive performance for its time, with two engine options:

1. **3.0-liter Ford Essex V6**:
- **Power**: 150 bhp (112 kW)
- **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**: 120 bhp (89 kW)
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 115 mph (185 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 10 seconds

These specifications made the Gilbern Genie a competitive and desirable sports car in its era.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for a Gilbern Genie, 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 Genie, including clutch, brakes, and hydraulics.

As for garage services in Northern Ireland to maintain your Gilbern Genie, 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.
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Racing
The Gilbern Genie did have some involvement 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 Genie can vary depending on its condition, history, and specific model. Here are some recent examples:

1. **3.0-liter Ford Essex V6**:
- A 1969 Gilbern Genie 3.0 V6 was recently auctioned for around £4,200.

2. **2.5-liter Ford Essex V6**:
- A 1968 Gilbern Genie with a 2.5-liter engine was sold for approximately £5,800.

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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