Invader timeline

1959

Wales’ only car manufacturer releases its first model. The GT is sold in kit form only (£748 on-sale price), comprising a 2+2 glassfibre body on a tubular chassis with BMC running gear.

1966

GT follow-up, the Genie has an extended chassis and Ford Zephyr’s V6 supplants BMC power. The Genie could be bought factory built or in component form.

1969

Ford V6 power tended to flex Genie’s chassis. Problem addressed by Invader’s stiffer design and improved suspension. Flush-fitting door handles aside, appearances are little changed.

1970

Further detail changes culminate in the Invader MkII. More exciting was the promise of an estate as part of grander plans to expand Gilbern production.

1972

Invader MkIII makes its debut, now with all-Ford running gear (Cortina front suspension and Taunus live axle) plus styling revisions – flared arches, full-width grille and revised rear. It’s also sold as factory-built only – VAT means that cost benefits of selling the car in component form are eradicated – a big problem for Gilbern, given nine out of ten cars were sold as kits.

1974

Extending itself beyond its means results in Gilbern ceasing trading. Various parties attempted a resurrection right up until 1979, though none was successful.