The original BRA; Beribo Replica Autos, were known for their excellent products and built on the success of their 289 Cobra replica in 1984 by launching their J Type traditional roadster, which latched onto the success of NG Cars who at the time were burning up the sales charts with sales of their TA and TC, and this classic style two-seater with cycle wings was heavily inspired by the thirties MG Midget running on MGB components with a choice of MG of Ford engines. The quality was of the highest order, although the kit price was a little on the steep side.

BRA J Type launched in 1984

Following on from the J Type, the flowing winged P Type arrived in 1985, with the enlongagted flowing wings being only the real difference between the two. The P Type was the prettier of the two cars and the flowing wings gave it even more elegance than its J Type sister. By 1992 BRA, (originally John Berry and Pete Ibbotson) had pretty much run out of steam, with the 289 being sold to Tyler Industrial Mouldings and the CX3 three-wheeler and BRA name being taken over by James Mather’s Flintshire-based operation.

BRA P Type launched in 1985

Strangely however, the lovely P and J Types lay dormant for three years until in 1995 Rodney Rushton, of Cheriton Bishop, Devon took over the brace of kits. Rodney was a rabbit farmer supplying thousands of the floppy eared favourites to pet supermarkets around the UK. He also supplies all manner of classic and unusual vehicles to TV companies who use them for various drama programmes. This resulted in the kits taking a back seat, and although Rodney has from time to time exhibited at shows the projects are currently for sale.

A P Type being put through its paces at Castle Combe race circuit. Not its obvious environment!

I think that if someone got hold of them and gave them the push they need, they’d sell in steady, if not large numbers and would be the perfect complement to an existing model or range.

We estimate that a combined 60 of both types were sold between 1984-2001 and if you can find on the secondhand market expect to pay about six grand but do hurry up or else you’ll find me jumping the queue in front of you.