Ashley Laminates GT Classic Cars for Sale

History of Ashley Laminates GT

Ashley Laminates made its mark on the British automotive landscape with their fibreglass-bodied GT models, produced during a period when kit cars flourished in the UK. Founded in the late 1950s, the company capitalised on Britain's hunger for affordable, stylish sports motoring by offering body shells and chassis components that aspiring owners would often complete using widely-available Ford mechanicals. The GT series stands out for its distinctive silhouette and the flexibility it offered to builders, aligning with the ethos of British DIY sporting motoring at the time.

Model History of the Ashley Laminates GT

The GT series from Ashley Laminates originated as an answer to the growing demand for bespoke sports cars that combined lightweight construction with accessible mechanical parts. Throughout its production, the GT offered enthusiasts a base for significant customisation. Predecessors include more basic Ashley body shells, while later models and other manufacturers further evolved the British kit car tradition. The GT remained the flagship in Ashley’s line-up, notable for its aerodynamically contoured bodywork.

Highlights of the Ashley Laminates GT

One of the defining features of the Ashley GT is its home-build ethos, allowing buyers to select engines, suspensions, and running gear suited to their individual preferences. The fibreglass body provides reduced mass, aiding both acceleration and handling. Its racing-inspired lines, compact proportions, and customisability are central attractions, and surviving originals are less commonly found due to a historically limited production and the nature of kit assembly.

Technical Data of the Ashley Laminates GT

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While the Ashley GT was primarily sold as a kit, there were a small number of factory-built or show-special variants which featured enhanced finishes, competition-style trim, or rare options—these are highly valued due to the lower rates of survival and the added provenance of direct factory assembly. However, specifics and numbers are challenging to determine due to inconsistent period record-keeping.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Given the wide variation in builds, much depends on the craftsmanship and mechanical choices of the original assembler. Buyers should pay particular attention to the condition of the fibreglass body for signs of poor repairs, crazing, or delamination. Mechanical reliability largely tracks the underlying Ford components, so the state of the engine, gearbox, and suspension bushings should be evaluated with period-specific diligence. Parts availability is generally good due to the prevalence of donor car spares, though Ashley-specific trim and mouldings can be scarce.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Performance characteristics depend heavily on build specification. With typical Ford four-cylinder engines, power output ranges from around 40 to 70 hp, sufficient for lively acceleration given the lightweight shell. The GT’s handling is noted for its direct responsiveness, though ride comfort can be spartan depending on suspension settings. Manual gearboxes are the norm, lending an engaging, mechanical driving feel. Braking systems, also Ford-derived, are simple but effective when well maintained. Highlights among Ashley GT builds often include those using uprated Ford Kent engines, Raymond Mays head conversions, or track-day-inspired chassis setups. These configurations are favoured by enthusiasts for their enhanced performance without straying from the original 1960s engineering philosophy.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The GT is easily identified by its low-slung, aerodynamic fibreglass body, often finished with period-correct metallic hues and classic wire or steel wheels. Interiors typically blend simple, functional instrumentation with lightweight sports seats—though high specification examples may include additional Smiths dials, period-correct Moto-Lita steering wheels, and bespoke trim. Original Ashley badges, trim pieces, and special colourways (including rare metallic blues or reds) set certain examples apart. Factory show specials and well-preserved builds sometimes display unique upholstery choices or racing stripes, attesting to the diversity allowed by the kit-build format.

Other Relevant Features

The GT’s appeal is enhanced by its period-correct accessories—spot lamps, racing mirrors, and rare period Recaro or Corbeau seats add value. Owners also appreciate the flexibility to fit modern upgrades discretely, such as electronic ignition or improved carburettors, without detracting from the original appearance.

Summary

The Ashley Laminates GT offers a unique entry into the world of 1960s British sports motoring, combining lightweight construction, customisable specifications, and a strong following among kit car aficionados. With 100% of both current supply and demand focused exclusively on the GT series, this model defines Ashley’s classic car legacy and represents a fascinating chapter in the evolution of the British specialist sports car market.