Among the legions of VW-based kit cars, a few non-Beetle based kits squeaked in that we don’t hear too much about. The Blakely Bernardi is one such example, effectively providing a modern riff on the classic MG TD. These models were considered pricey in their day, but the designers at least had the foresight to engineer the chassis to accept four-cylinder, V6 or V8 power. Find this 1982 model here on eBay with bidding over $3K and no reserve.
One of our biggest gripes about kit cars tends to be build quality. Even in the hands of the most detail-obsessed fabricator, they can look sloppy, with uneven shut lines and low-quality materials distorting the original design. From an armchair quarterback’s perspective, this Blakely presents well, with even panel gaps, a handsome interior and a wheel and tire combo that looks perfect for the depth of the wheel wells.
Power came from a range of engines, though this example makes do with a 2.3L four-cylinder, likely from a Pinto of the era. Say what you will, but this is an engine that will be cheap to maintain for years to come – but it’s nice to know you can always drop in a small-block Ford V8. The clamshell hood provides easy engine access, and the motor is mated to a four-speed manual transmission. The seller says this is a two-owner vehicle that handles well going down the road.
This Bernari is located in Wisconsin, which means it didn’t stray far from its place of manufacture. Blakely Auto Works was headquartered in Princeton, Wisconsin, and apparently captured the imagination of a nearby farmer given the surrounding terrain of the Bernardi’s for sale photos. Although it doesn’t strike us as your typical farm vehicle, it likely felt right at home on midwestern backroads. Kit cars operate in a curious space as it relates to values and future worth, but this one looks like an example worth owning.
Looks like a lot of fun for the money.
Engine swap down the road. Switch the taillights as they look like they came off a pop up camper. Maybe switch the grill…Cordish coffin nose?
I think they’re early 1970s Honda motorcycle tail lights.
Always thought these were cool. Could that grille be Cutlass turned sideways?
Boxden,
I thought the same thing but the bars run the opposite way. Here a shot of the 1976 Cutlass grill I was thinking of.
I remember at the introduction press something was said about re using cutlass grills. Those in your pic sure look close.
Nicely proportioned and a decent fit and finish. I want one.
I like the grill. Would find some less industrial bumpers….
I’d fix the Marty Feldman headlights on this one.
There’s only a handful of kit cars that make the styling grade for me, and this ain’t one of them. I’d rather have a restored Pinto than this eyesore…and I don’t even LIKE Pintos! Yuck!
Phinias,one man’s meat………
With a bigger engine you would not feel so vulnerable on a multilane highway as you do in an MG – enough power to get out of the way of the semi moving over into your lane. If you really want to feel vulnerable, get someone to give you a ride in an open Model T Ford. Pretty close to being on a bicycle in terms of danger of being crushed by someone else.
I owned a Bernard, mine was built when I bought it, it was originally a 1972 Ford Pinto Station wagon,2.3. 4 cyl,4spd.
One of the best fiberglass bodies I have seen also one of the thickest. I was lucky the person I bought mine from was an aviation mechanic and he was very particular about the fit and finish off the body parts and panels.
My Bernard was retro fit with an aftermarket cruise control, wire wheels and a recommended auxillary radiator temp. controlled fan to help with cooling.
The grill is a 1976 Cutlass grill, turn signals are from JC Whitney, tail lights are off of the early 70’s Honda 750 Four. The only thing I can think of that I can think of that is a down side of the car is that the gel coat fades pretty bad. The upside, you can get almost all the parts from your local parts store the hardest part I tried to get was the bell housing, but they can be found.
As a former owner of one of these cars, if you can find one at what you think is a reasonable price make the purchase, try to find one that has the build manuals, they are invaluable.
Could you email me? I am in process of buying a Bernardi!
I currently own three of these. I build one, finished one and fixed one. There were only 164 made. I have numbers 80, 120 and 164. If you have never driven a Bernardi, you can’t even begin to appreciate it. None of mine are for sale and never will be!
Could you email me? I am in process of buying a Bernardi!
Larry, I don’t know your email. I’m archiesparks@verizon.net
It’s nice to see people are still enjoying these cars. I also have one my dad built in 83 and still like new.
I owned one back in 1986. The day it was completed a drunk ran a red light and severely damaged it. I had it shipped to Blakely Auto Works because I couldn’t find anyone in Maryland that would repair the frame. Blakely promptly went bankrupt and I never saw my car again. Do you have pics of the vehicle? would love to see them.
i own a 1982 bernardi sn#001 this car sat for around 20 yrs in a doctors estate in Illinois
How about a picture?
Hi, I’m looking at an 81 , anything I should be looking for ? Tks Bob C
#80
#120
#164
trying to install a 302 ford motor in my 1983 bernardi cant find any help on doing it any one know is it a direct fit car has a v6 in it now