The Bradley GT was an American sports car manufactured from 1970 to 1981 by Bradley Automotive, designed by Gary Courneya. It was primarily sold as a kit car, requiring assembly by the purchaser. The vehicle’s design drew inspiration from contemporary sports cars like the Ford GT40 and Ferrari Dino, featuring a low-profile body and distinctive gull-wing doors that contributed to its futuristic and athletic aesthetic.
Initially, the Bradley GT utilized a rear-mounted Volkswagen Beetle engine. This choice of powertrain made the car relatively cost-effective and simple to maintain due to the widespread availability and known reliability of Beetle engines. The combination of the car’s lightweight construction and rear-engine configuration resulted in notable performance capabilities for its era.
These factors contributed to the Bradley GT’s popularity among automotive enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet stylish sports car option.
Key Takeaways
- The Bradley GT was a popular kit car in the 1970s, designed to resemble a sports car
- It featured a fiberglass body and was based on the chassis of a Volkswagen Beetle
- The Bradley GT gained popularity due to its futuristic design and affordable price
- The car has a cult following and is considered a classic among kit car enthusiasts
- The Bradley GT has seen a revival in recent years, with enthusiasts restoring and customizing the cars to modern standards
The Features and Design of the Bradley GT
Standout Features
The gull-wing doors were a standout feature of the Bradley GT, giving the car a futuristic and exotic look. The interior of the car was also well-appointed, with comfortable bucket seats and a sporty dashboard layout.
Performance and Handling
In terms of performance, the Bradley GT was no slouch. The rear-mounted Volkswagen engine provided ample power for the lightweight car, giving it lively acceleration and nimble handling. The car also featured disc brakes at all four corners, providing strong and reliable stopping power.
A Compelling Combination
Overall, the Bradley GT offered a compelling combination of style, performance, and affordability, making it a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts.
The Popularity and Legacy of the Bradley GT
The Bradley GT quickly gained a dedicated following among car enthusiasts. Its striking design and affordable price made it an attractive option for those looking for a unique sports car. The car was also featured in popular media of the time, further boosting its popularity.
However, despite its initial success, the Bradley GT ultimately fell victim to changing market conditions and production ceased in 1981. Despite its relatively short production run, the Bradley GT left a lasting legacy in the world of kit cars and sports cars. Its distinctive design and affordable price point made it an accessible option for many enthusiasts.
Today, the Bradley GT is considered a classic car and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Revival of the Bradley GT
| Year | Sales | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 50 | Low |
| 2019 | 75 | Medium |
| 2020 | 100 | High |
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in classic cars, including the Bradley GT. This has led to a revival of interest in the car, with many enthusiasts seeking out and restoring original examples. Additionally, there has been a resurgence in aftermarket support for the Bradley GT, with companies offering reproduction parts and upgrades for these iconic cars.
The revival of interest in the Bradley GT has also led to an increase in values for well-maintained examples. Collectors and enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for original, unmolested examples of the car, further driving interest in these classic sports cars.
Modern Upgrades and Improvements to the Bradley GT
As interest in the Bradley GT has grown, so too has the availability of modern upgrades and improvements for these classic cars. Many companies now offer performance upgrades, such as engine swaps and suspension enhancements, to improve the performance and drivability of the Bradley GT. Additionally, there are companies that specialize in restoring and modifying original examples of the car, bringing them up to modern standards while preserving their classic charm.
These modern upgrades and improvements have made the Bradley GT even more appealing to enthusiasts. With improved performance and reliability, these classic cars are now more enjoyable to drive than ever before.
The Appeal of Owning a Bradley GT Today
Unique Design and Features
These iconic cars are known for their striking design and unique features, making them stand out at car shows and on the road.
Affordability and Accessibility
Additionally, the relative affordability of the Bradley GT compared to other classic sports cars makes it an attractive option for those looking to get into classic car ownership.
A Sense of Community
The community of Bradley GT owners is also a tight-knit group, with many enthusiasts sharing their knowledge and experiences with these iconic cars. This sense of camaraderie adds to the appeal of owning a Bradley GT and makes it a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about these classic sports cars.
The Future of the Bradley GT in the Classic Car Market
As interest in classic cars continues to grow, the future looks bright for the Bradley GT in the classic car market. With its striking design and unique features, these iconic cars are sure to remain sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the availability of modern upgrades and improvements will only serve to increase the appeal of these classic sports cars.
As values for well-maintained examples continue to rise, owning a Bradley GT has become an attractive investment opportunity for those looking to get into classic car ownership. With its timeless design and enduring appeal, the Bradley GT is sure to remain a beloved classic car for years to come.
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FAQs
What is a Bradley GT?
The Bradley GT is a kit car produced in the 1970s and 1980s. It was designed to resemble a small, two-seater sports car and was based on the chassis of a Volkswagen Beetle.
Who designed the Bradley GT?
The Bradley GT was designed by Gary Courneya and David Bradley.
What is a kit car?
A kit car is a type of vehicle that is assembled by the purchaser from a set of parts, typically sold in kit form by the manufacturer.
What engine does the Bradley GT use?
The Bradley GT typically used the air-cooled, rear-mounted engine from a Volkswagen Beetle, although some models were also available with a Porsche 914 engine.
Is the Bradley GT still in production?
No, the Bradley GT is no longer in production. The original company, Bradley Automotive, ceased operations in the 1980s.
Are Bradley GT cars still available for purchase?
Yes, used Bradley GT cars can still be found for sale through private sellers, collectors, and specialty car dealers.