The Pembleton T24 Exclusive Review - The LIGHTEST New car you've never heard of

The Pembleton T24 review - the LIGHTEST new car on sale? Jonny Smith gets a world exclusive on the £33,000 four wheeled, 2-cylinder, 361kg British grin maker called a Pembleton. The company also makes a three-wheeler, but this four wheeler is their new model, featuring front-wheel drive, independent suspension, disc brakes all round and either a 79bhp 850cc aircooled twin cylinder engine, or a 750cc unit.
Is the future of fun new cars less power, less weight, thinner tyres and amazing mpg? Jonny thinks it could be.
Thanks for stopping by The Late Brake Show.
This episode is proudly supported by Black Circles www.blackcircles.com/, the UK’s largest online tyre retailer providing a comprehensive click & fit service.
Enter your registration number to the website and you choose between a wide selection of different types of grades of tyres suitable for your car.
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Filmed and edited by: Phil Vaughan Pritchard www.philvfilms.com/
Thumbnail by: Matt Tarrant www.matttarantdesign.com
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Jonny Smith
Creative content maker, car presenter & car pervert for hire since '98
Website: www.carpervert.com
Instagram: / jonnycarpervert
Twitter: / carpervert
CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro
1:55 The Pembleton story
3:35 Caravan name!
4:50 Tech specs
5:40 Driving impressions 1
7:30 0-62 mph
8:54 Unique suspension
9:40 Wheel and tyres
11:45 Chassis and dimensions
13:19 Storage and boot space
14:50 MERCH
15:25 Driving impressions 2
18:07 The factory
22:24 Driving impressions 3
25:07 Verdict
#worldslightestcar #4k #thelatebrakeshow

[@rushja]

This is why we watch the Late Brake Show. I've always been a classic car fan because of the simplicity and beauty of them. Modern cars are great for covering large distances but how often do we need to do that? Small, micro cars should be making a revival.

[@tonyduncan9852]

They should? Back in '73, just the same . . . the price of energy . . . yep.

[@leealan6416]

I would love to own one of these cars. I love the three wheel option, but the four wheel one looks so cool.

[@timscott3027]

I think they are starting to.

[@erepsekahs]

crap

[@Oomzilla]

Love love, I am an elecymotorbiker, this... So practical for todays world and I'd defo say, an everydayer. Living in spain I need no roof. Bring it on, I'd live it if more people started going into their sheds and building cars. Id be a buyer for sure!

[@josephottewill7615]

I bought a V-Sport three wheeler from Guy 6 years ago , the third car he built. My wife and i have driven it all over , including down through France. In all that time it's never missed a beat. As an ex biker i wanted something that needed real engagement to drive and this is everything you could want. Also a lot quicker than you might imagine , you can certainly wipe the smug look off a lot of supercar drivers. The downside ? You're going to have to get used to doing an awful lot of talking to strangers !

[@5rgs17]

I live in France and have my 1977 MKII manual o/d original, but sorted, Triumph Stag. The French love their classic cars and there are always looks, questions, thumbs up and 'c'est belle'!

[@johnbrown-so3vz]

Jealous

[@seanofarrell5207]

I love driving my V-Sport through Windsor, the tourists love it, lot's of smiles, waves and pointing, my V-Sport features in a hell of a lot of holiday snaps. Guaranteed to make people smile.

[@michaelbrinks8089]

Reminds me....I moved to Iowa and ran into a guy riding a Ural motorcycle with side car while out riding my motorcycle. I didn't know anyone in the area and started talking to him. After a couple minutes I realized what I had done & that he was tired of everyone approaching him to look at his motorcycle.

[@TheSimondepauw]

I used to own a mazda mx 5. Now just bought a mkv supra but i am very tempted to drive experience and maybe some day own this gorgeous roadster you just reviewed

[@pembletonmotorcompany5682]

WOW, 200k views and counting! What a stunning video, thank you all so much for your kind words in the comments and thank you to Jonny and the Late Brake Show team for putting together such a fantastic piece.

[@marvindebot3264]

You do nice work sir, I'm sure the order books will run out even further now. Any in Australia?

[@frenchfriar]

It's easy to see the love you put into crafting these beautiful machines, they are true works of art as well as engineering. All I can say is "bravo", we need more manufacturers like you. I'm in the US, by the way, and I'm curious how the vehicle might be classed over here, if you know?

[@realscience948]

Great machine…it has captured everything in it’s styling & feel!

[@flexyco]

I've instantly become a fan of your company. Great concept, great design, great way to run a company. Too bad I can never own one.

[@Bob_Adkins]

Great car, great engineering! I've been frustrated forever with the weight of cars. Everyone knows that weight has a way of "snowballing" as you add a few comfort features because then you have to make the suspension and engine heavier. Few realize that weight can also "un-snowball" too! Every 100 pounds a car loses makes it possible to remove even more weight. I would love to see a motorcycle engine/clutch/ 6-speed transmission integrated into such a car.

[@jirislavicek9954]

Being a Moto Guzzi enthusiast, the engine was the first thing that caught my eye! The whole car is an exceptional job in terms of design, quality and capturing the essence of pre-war era motoring. Well done! 👍

[@mothmagic1]

Most likely the same engine that went into the T3/California.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

@@mothmagic1 , Looks like the new V85TT engine.

[@jurgentreue1200]

@@mothmagic1 ,, much later engine.

[@jurgentreue1200]

@@Dave-sw2dm ,, that's what I thought.

[@jurgentreue1200]

I've owned two Moto Guzzi Le Mans. A 1984 Le Mans MkIII and 1990 Le Mans MkV. I owned the MkV 11 years from new. In 2001, I crashed the MkV in the rain returning from the Phillip Island World Superbikes, only an hour from home (two day ride to the Island from home). The bike was a write off but the engine was still okay. Only needed a rocker cover on the left hand side. A guy rang me if I would sell the wreck. The engine ended up in a Morgan style three wheeler. Somewhere in Sydney, there's a three wheeler getting around with a very well tuned (about 90-92hp at the time of the crash) Moto Guzzi Le Mans 1000 engine hanging out of the front end.

[@christopherknoerdel4069]

Heaven, pure, heaven!! As a life long British car and motorcycle collector, restorer, and daily driver, this is as close to perfect as any “modern car” i have seen. Watching your excellent video sent me back to 1968 racing through the woods late on a warm summer night in my open MGA… “More of that please!” Keep up the great work!!

[@michelvanbriemen3459]

Is it a good sign when one beholds the thumbnail and instinctively shouts "WANT THAT, GOTTA HAVE THAT" in his mind?

[@davidthomson692]

Oh yeah !

[@liamgross7217]

Same!

[@noisepuppet]

I thought it. Then my second thought was, another cool vehicle we'll probably never get in the US (at least not without going to a lot of trouble and expense), which has been my experience for the last fifty years. Then my third thought was, in my town, I'd be mixing it up in traffic among lifted GMC Denali HDs and Ram 9000 Ultra Turbinators and other absurd vehicles piloted by oblivious psychopaths. But my fourth thought was, this town does a pretty brisk business in renting out Polaris Slingshots and similar to tourists, and I haven't noticed them getting flattened by enormous stupid trucks yet. So maybe. But this is too many thoughts, and now I have to lie down.

[@twcmaker]

​@@noisepuppetJust get them to shop a few parts over, then another few, then a few more. 👍 And put the jigsaw together.

[@noisepuppet]

@@twcmaker hmm, so that I gain a car by accretion. I'll try it!

[@mogli1978]

I used to own a 2CV and now drive a Moto Guzzi V85TT. So much of this vehicle seems familiar. The sound of the gearbox, the stuff he said about the engine. I totally fell in love with the thing…

[@brhclive3836]

This is exactly why I sold my Porsche and brought a new Morgan Super 3 to get back to the joy of driving… your video pretty much sums up The same feelings I have every time I drive it… great video as always Edd

[@rayRay-pw6gz]

I wonder if this is in the same price range as the Morgan 3 ? How long did you own the Morgan and was it reliable?

[@sdg198127]

I want one. Simple is that. I absolutely love the architecture, the noise, even to how they have designed the seats and the rest areas for your arm. What a wonderful bit of kit. Well done Jonny

[@charliegardner6804]

Me too ❤ love it.

[@markpaterson6024]

Me too, wonder if we can get one over to Australia though 🤔 Trouble is the fun police here might make it a hassle.

[@helmuthhaass3631]

@@markpaterson6024 l would be interested in acquiring one of these. Would be great on Tasmanian roads.

[@markpaterson6024]

@@helmuthhaass3631 oh yeah ! 👌 I was thinking the Great Ocean Road over here in Victoria 😉👍🏼

[@BanjoLuke1]

Quite right about low mass, low power and narrow tyres. My wife runs a 1961 roadster that weighs perhaps 670Kg and makes 55bhp. You sit almost on the tarmac and it feels like a rocketship. No PAS, no ABS, no ECU.... Gorgeous.

[@StephenButlerOne]

My dought not long back had a mk1 1 Ford ka 1.3z. I had a 200bhp plus cars at the time, but would jump in her ka often when going down my local narrow country lanes. It was just more fun. Bloody thing cost 150 quid!

[@sixfootbear]

@@StephenButlerOne I owned a Ford Fiesta MK1 van. 950cc..Wonderful fun on country roads..

[@StephenButlerOne]

@@sixfootbear the old smaller and slower cars, seem way more fun than today's 200bhp belated cars, when it comes to our narrow lanes. I wouldn't want one full time. But for sheer fun factor around your local lanes, a 1 liter 106 or a mk1 ka, is hard to be beat.

[@Zeem4]

@@sixfootbear In the mid-2000s I had a Mk1 Seat Ibiza with a 903cc engine and all of 40bhp. Amazing fun to drive, especially round town - I used to love throwing it round roundabouts. I've got a 957cc Fiesta in the garage but it's a long way from seeing the road again.

[@808bigisland]

Had a Lotus Europa S2. 100hp and 600kg. Tons of fun.

[@sveinbjrge3438]

This presentation hit me like a lightning! For several years now, I have owned a Panther Kallista 2.8. For the very first time I’m very tempted to sell it for buying a Pembleton T24! Wow! What a car! I’m currently discussing with the local gouverments in order to apply for an approval of the beautiful Pembleton T24 here in Norway.

[@TheLateBrakeShow]

That's cool. Let us know how you get on!

[@petey7692]

did you manage to convince the government?

[@bawhitham]

Nearly every time I see the Late Brake Show, Jonny Smith is reviewing another modern version of retro cars or vans. I can't recall an episode where he seems to be so delighted with the experience of driving one of them as he seems with the Pembleton. Thanks for this great review and bravo to the family that makes these vehicles.

[@CharlieEvansBristol]

I LOVE THIS COMPANY! This is the sort of design that is so sorely missed in the modern car industry. Something with a bit of flair and panache. Something that isn't a glorified box on wheels. I used to walk by a Morgan showroom near my house and it was something I really enjoyed. Seeing that older design aesthetic being continued into the modern day. I would love to own one of these. Sadly, my current living situation wouldn't allow for it, but if it ever did, I'd put in for one in a heartbeat!

[@shagohodsin1562]

Coming from a motorcycle background, this is honestly amazing to me. 80 HP and 800 Pounds is an amazing power to weight ratio to be around for a cruiser style motorcycle. and to get that with a 4 wheeled chassis is outstanding. I would pick one of these up in a heartbeat if ! was able!

[@Oyashiro_Chama]

45hp on a 300 pound motorcycle is amazing, add 19.5k RPMs and you have the reason I love earlier JP 4 cyclinder 250cc bikes. I would too for that crazy but slightly safer ride.

[@zizzruzz9956]

Imagine I have the exact same engine on my Moto Guzzi V85 TT and it weights 229kg with 23l of petrol.

[@tullyontherocks]

One to Ten P/W is where the fun begins on four wheels. About one to six or better is the best death zone, and my favorite. "Tis why I sorta hate modern American Muscle cars. Yes, your Hellcat has 600 HP, good, it's fat ass needs it! I started on a 45 HP TD... An 80 HP T24 sounds nicce, Alas I'm on the wrong side of the pond. Lovely little car.

[@johngilbert1240]

Are these available in Canada?

[@1unsung971]

"Like Sid James laughing," wonderful, nostalgic analogy. Marvellous commentary. Well done and thank you!!!!!!!

[@mantarayal]

Love they use Moto Guzzi motors. As a Moto Guzzi owner I can tell you these motors are sweet, and if you service them, will last and last and last. They are low stress, and built solidly. Sound brilliant. These cars are epic!! And, I have to say, for a hand-built car, cheap as chips.

[@wickedtwix]

First thing I thought...I know these spread wing on the cover. Would be cool to get one of these with the V100 power train at some point...just have to hide the cooler somwhere.

[@MyLifePixeled]

Jonny, thanks for bringing all the types of "car fandom" together on your channel. I love all vehicles, petrol or EV and one shouldn't feel they have to choose. Also, as I try to always do, thanks to your team behind the scenes. Excellent work!

[@desmo750f1]

As a Moto Guzzi and Morgan owner I approve of this, it looks great fun.

[@manfredschmalbach9023]

I'd prefer a 1200 Griso engine, but the idea is very much approvable 😄

[@LogicalQ]

You sir, are a man with good tastes. Cheers

[@jujuUK68]

And you still have the swinging 60's to look forward to.

[@realscience948]

Love the way the engine sticks out in front..open air concept!

[@timphillips9954]

Sell the Guzzi and buy an Enfield.

[@harryfoster6374]

Nice one Jonny, as an old guy who had a lot off bikes you demonstrated the bikers feeling of real freedom on the road all in your smile, Take care,& more please, Big H.

[@stuartgraca]

I was brought up with vintage cars, they were big, my grandfather had a Morgan 3 wheeler with bicycle wheels, it was so much more fun. I was a motor biker until I bought a mini. I love this car you are showing, firstly, like my family, it is artisan made and designed and ut us a village project, well away from industry and back to community life, sharing trades. It reminds me of the carriage trade that still existed when I moved to London as was the working coopers, barrel makers. My grandfather was a xabinet maker like myself, but before the first world war he worked as a rail carriage maker. As I say I grew up with my elder brother having a Lea Francis with all wood chassis and coach work and a MG midget , we were at classic rallies all summer as well as WW1 aircraft flying shows. Another of my grandfathers influences since he built Sopwiths during the war .

[@notroublesjustbubbles2307]

Guy is great! I have no idea of his upbringing, education, or work experience,... but he's very easy to listen to. Humble, honest and well spoken. I wish the company the very best of luck!

[@gryfandjane]

Splendid. The Pembleton harks back to a simpler time when many such interesting vehicles were built in sheds by craftsmen, and driving one was a unique experience, for better or worse. I’ve owned an MG Midget for the last 28 years for much the same reason.

[@JohnMoore-rv4zm]

If I lived in the UK, I would be all over this little beauty. i have always loved little cars, owned a Morris Minor, AH Sprite, four VWs (3 air-cooled), an original 63 Mini and now drive my third MiniS. The Pemberton with no top and no ac wouldn't work in Texas, but I could never get enough of it on roads as in your fascinating video. You had me on the three-wheeler and it was minutes in before I realized it was four! Thanks for introducing them to we, your loyal viewers.

[@WalterPidgeonsForge]

I would love one… but alas, I am in the States.. and can’t imagine getting one here. If we lived in the Welsh or Scottish countryside there would be one on order.

[@gryfandjane]

@@WalterPidgeonsForge And where better to drive one than the Welsh or Scottish countryside?

[@peterrenn6341]

Same here. People think Spridget owners aspire to a bigger, more powerful car but we know low eight and an immediate driving experience are where its at. (38 years and counting on my Midget;-)

[@robertandrew6860]

🎉I am so 😊 glad, you, a motorcar programme have portrayed the Pembleton. I bought mine from Gregory in the early 2000s when he was selling them as a chassis and a set of patterns for the panels, I then bought four, 8 foot by 4 foot aluminum sheets from which the panels were to be made. Mine is the Pembleton Grasshopper Supersport, (2 carburettors), with the 2CV engine. We have had so much fun in it over the years, and hope to do so well into our 80s we are both 76 at the moment. Wait until you try in on the motorway; 70 MPH is so easily attainable and so comfortable.

[@daalvares]

Wow ! I live in Brazil and felt in love with this car ! It’s amazing !!!!

[@neiliosr8]

It felt like I was a passenger in this, you looked like you were having a blast a bit like the feeling you get when you drive a go cart round a track, not powerful but bloody good fun. I'd buy one to blast around the Brecon beacons.

[@fladder1]

I'd buy one in a heartbeat if i had the money for it and import it. As an ex-biker the sound (especially the sound) and driving experience it appears to give really appeals to me. And I just love the looks of those old classic cars....

[@jasmijnariel]

Sadly in lots of european countries this would never be on the road because of safety laws

[@MrChimeratic]

@@jasmijnarielyou do realize where the car‘s being manufactured?

[@jasmijnariel]

@@MrChimeratic yes i do. And thats why i mentioned "a lot of european countries" cause the laws variate a lot over 1000km here

[@kasperkjrsgaard1447]

@@MrChimeraticIt’s manufactured outside of EU, so unless there’s an early EU approval it could be pretty difficult to get it approved for road use. The lack of airbag and abs is only two of the biggest issues.

[@richslaney]

I love it... Makes a lovely sound and I'm sure it would feel special and different one each and every journey. It made me smile seeing how it put a smile on Jonny's face as it drove it. Pure driving pleasure and I think that's what most driving enthusiasts want more than out and out speed. I bet the Pembleton makes you smile from 0 - 60 where as modern cars are pretty dull and boring until you are going way to fast for the public highway. If I could afford on, I'd have one.

[@drlong08]

I've owned 12 E21's over the past 30 years. The fact that it's so basic, manual everything with no distractions of cup holders, screens, etc. has made me a fan of it for so long. This car pulls that ideal back to an imagined vintage age of motoring with some drivetrain perks. You don't need to go fast, just be engaged in the experience and it will hit you in the driver "feels" just fine.

[@PazLeBon]

you are distracted by cup holders? awwww :(

[@jamesprince4991]

Much as I admire the tech and achievement, I'd stand on any 1000bhp hypercar to get a better view of a car like this.

[@stephen300o6]

Folks say this, then they don't buy one.

[@jamesprince4991]

@@stephen300o6 That's not entirely fair. There are an enormous number of cars that I like but don't buy, as each purchase is subject to any number of external factors. My comment reflects the interest and broad appeal of product, what it evokes. I'm sure if I were care free and my financial decisions could be selfish, I'd buy such a thing.

[@kramnam4716]

lovely comment

[@MrCarGuy]

​@@stephen300o6As soon as possible, here in the US, I would buy one

[@Kref3]

@@stephen300o6 Two or three years I walked down the street in my hometown and suddenly heard a squeaky noise of an old, small car, turned around and for the first time in probably two decades I saw a Ford Fiesta Mk 1 driving towards me. The car, my mom drove me to kindergarten in a long time ago. I stopped and looked at the car as it went by and watched till it bent around the next corner. I would not have looked nearly as long for a Porsche 356 or early 911 or Pagoda SL Benz, despite the fact that those are cars that I really would enjoy to own yet never would really consider to buy a Fiesta Mk1. So being surprised and touched by something and being interested in it more than in a thing you really would love to own does not necessarily mean I would want to buy it over the other thing.

[@DDLovett]

Wow Mr Smith. With this production quality, you are really spoiling us. If someone said to me there is a car that's part caravan, part 2cv with a moto guzzi engine I would never believe them. Yet here it is and it is flipping fabulous. Utterly utterly fabulous. ❤

[@michaelpommerening8043]

Jonny, your whole wrap-up is the reason I would buy one. If this is ever allowed for import to the US, it's on my short list. The idea of light-weight, simple motoring is right up my alley. Love the video the ability to live vicariously through your exploits

[@jfu5222]

There are a few Tri-king three wheelers around in the States.

[@andrewward1887]

i would bet you could ship it to the US as a kit car, just ship the engine in a different crate you would have to have the DMV inspect it and give you a vin plate.

[@recumbentrocks2929]

Great episode! Never heard of this company before but absolutely love the whole setup, care and amazing engineering that goes into making these beautiful machines. Thanks for sharing this with us Jonny.

[@RHM6x4]

Excellent journalism Jonny, asking the right questions, at just the right time, great review - My father, now in his eighties, built a 2CV powered Pembleton, 5 or 6 years ago smiles per mile a plenty, he often goes touring in France ! - when it had its SVA test the examiner could find nothing wrong, but had to take it for an extended road test, just to check it out ! .... and came back grinning from ear to ear ! (it passed) - he had a Morgan in his youth back in the late 50s - I find it as exhilarating as as a good blast on a motorcycle, with a perceived level of performance that matches any hot hatch - he does run some fancy heads and twin dellorto carbs so it, I believe its up around the high 40s hp and is no slouch.

[@kraenk12]

Cars like this are death traps and not feasible for today‘s car market.

[@simonwhalley1743]

A wonderful video, Jonny. I’ve been following Pembleton for a while now and they deserve all the success that comes their way. You’re spot on about the horsepower arms race that’s been going on for the last ten years or so. I sold my 500bhp, 1.5 ton car last year and bought a Caterham. Motoring is fun again. You can feel the car moving about and your senses are so heightened. It’s the perfect antidote to modern cars where you’re increasingly detached from what’s happening outside. Well done Pembleton for making this! I’m sorely tempted.

[@martinbland8510]

From watching this video alone I absolutely love this car! I wish I could justify buying one. I expect there is quite a waiting list. I love it and I thoroughly enjoy the video which not only has the sound and the beautiful looks of the car, but the experience of driving it is also well described and demonstrated. When I tell people about it they look at me in bewilderment, but when I show them a photo of it on my phone, they get it!

[@rogerwredford]

Good vid as ever, Jonny, and great to see the spirit of the cottage industry British car is alive and well. More fun driving slow cars fast than fast cars slowly, as they say. Having had a 1930's Supersport down the years, it looks like they've out-Morganed Morgan here, both with the 3 and 4 wheeler models.

[@gordowg1wg145]

EXACTLY! There's no way you can get anywhere near the limits of even a modern 1600 car, safely, on public roads without serious risk to one's licence. With more powerful cars, they're just a waste of money unless one has access to a race track. With a light-ish, lower-powered car on narrow tyres one can have a blast without actually risking one's licence - or limbs. A series IIA short wheelbase rag-top Landy on triple traction cross-plies comes to mind - 80mph was like 180mph, and at much more sedate speeds it would drift delightfully.

[@user-du3gy3gn8l]

I have one of these - a self built car weighing 376 kgs, powered by an 80bhp BMW "Boxer" completed over 15 years ago and in regular use, mainly touring in France. My car has much more built-in storage than the T24, runs on 15" wire, centrelock wheels, returns 48 mpg with a range of 400 miles. Very much like a motorbike, you need wet weather gear for when it rains. Our french trips are usually between 2,000 and 3,000 miles - the car "opens doors you might not have realised were there!"

[@javierrodriguez2863]

Wow, would love one day do that touring in one of those!🙏

[@MrPhillipgraham]

Absolutely agree. We need more cars like this! Everything is super-sized, gadget-laden, and far too complicated for the masses. Let's have some fun without worrying about breaking the speed limit! Thanks for this.

[@FlIckme23]

Im glad you added the part at the end about modern heavy big bhp cars as all the way through i was thinking this is all you need for smiles and driving memories. Its a beautiful work of art 😁

[@smile768]

Wow! This is so cool. There is nothing to dislike here. From the awesome yesteryear looks to the factory with car catflap entrance. It's just awesome.

[@feenyx6394]

Love the spirit AND the design of this little rascal. My budget doesn't allow for owning one currently, but I'm very happy to know they exist at all! And that gives me hope that microcars (for lack of a better term) will continue to exist by the time it is financially viable for me to get one as a second/third vehicle. Thanks so much Jonny for bringing this to our attention, and I wish them all the best in keeping production going at their own pace for however long.

[@bassbusterx]

I think Ultralight would be a better term, it's already used in the world of aircrafts

[@mikericketts-royle4840]

What a lovely car , love the noise and feel it gives you , and it's nice to see a company that loves making something special and bespoke and encouraging the new owner to visit the workshop and get to know the car

[@ericholmquist8966]

I was raised with my dad's '51 MG TD. He always wanted to,put wirevwheels on it but never did, ( bought a new '64-1/2 GT Mustang), my son has them now. I always wanted a wire wheel, under slung. This close enough. I want one!

[@rogerrabbito4517]

The commercial is excellent! 😂- Thx for the good times enjoying my coffee and the show. - RR - New England, USA -

[@MarkKay-to3po]

As an ex Caterham and current Elise S1 owner I absolutely get this, this seems like the concept:add lightness turned up to 11, love it. What a beautiful thing to look at as well.Your smiling face says it all..

[@chrishazael3157]

Best feeling I had driving was when I had my 2CV. It always put a smile on my face! Now I cycle a lot and love the freedom it gives me. Feeling the breeze, touching the senses ... This car gels those emotions plus the simplicity and feeling disconnected with the modern world. The workshop reminds me of my first frame building job for a bespoke bicycle company that's still going today. It's so nice to see this type of engineering.

[@deltavee2]

Thank you, Jonny! I can certainly identify with the spirit of the vehicle as well as three wheel Morgans. My ride is a 2011 Can-Am RT SM5 Spyder here in Ontario, Canada, Rotax engine, 1,000cc, 100hp, 4-speed with overdrive, two wheels out front and a monster drive wheel in the rear, about 950 lbs wet with a full tank. I'm an ex-biker as of last year (1100cc Yamaha Virago) and got the Can-Am for myself as a birthday present. Haven't owned a car in 20 years and don't miss them. In the adverts for it the Bombardier (yes, those guys) Recreational Vehicle company includes the fact that you can _drift_ it! I may leave that to the side since I'm 76 but I haven't had a chance yet to see if it'll do the ton. Pretty sure it will. I'd love to ride up to Pembleton's spotless shop on it and have a good old natter. I love their cars and the three-wheelers look divine. The raw polished aluminium number looked simply stunning. British workmanship is alive and well and we're all the better for it. Wind in your face and a farmer's field up your nose...nothing beats it. Cheers from Ottawa, ON !!!

[@rogerhowell6269]

What a lovely car, reminds. Me of my old MGTC we had in 1963. Can understand the feeling and thrill of being on the open road! Many thanks for the review. Would love to have one back home in Oz! Brilliant !😎

[@SmallBlogV8]

From the side view, the proportions - particularly where the wheels are placed relative to the body's various volumes - looks absolutely spot-on. It's actually weirdly pleasing to look at such good proportions! I think everyone you tell will be surprised that it's front-wheel-drive, or indeed 2CV-based by any extent, but then this won't be used by people who want to powerslide out of roundabouts (dare I assume their average customer age is quite high?). I think the only query I'd have after this review is safety, given that it's a miniscule "not quite a car" that must be made of skinny metal to be 360kg...

[@nikonordman7624]

Hey atleast it has headrests :)

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Thank you for posting a great comment. My idea of the age(s) of potential customers differs. This is a vehicle for a courting couple to put a picnic lunch behind the seats and head out for a fine day. Anyone who wants to visit your country's B roads will appreciate this narrow vehicle. Being low to the ground, there is an enhanced sense of forward momentum. Pembleton offers the cachet of a low-volume/high-quality/quirky maker.

[@shiraz1736]

@@jamesellsworth9673I think the whole concept , low volume etc leans towards a retired cash to spare type market. I wish the hell someone out there opened their mind to these styles in the EV space.

[@seanmorgan4099]

I'd suggest its as a safe any motorbike. Given its lack of general speed and light weight for good braking, its safe enough.

[@aumkar2]

Yup, spot on proportions!

[@dougzirkle5951]

Yes, I’d buy it. Of the many cars I’ve had, this reminds me of a mishmash of three in particular: 1959 VW with the huge sunroof, my 1972 MGB, and my 1973 Porsche 914. The Pembleton takes the simpleness of the VW, the sportiness of the 914, and Britishness of my old B. I love it!

[@perdana5786]

If they would make a rear engine, rear wheel drive version that light. That thing would handle like a dream.

[@RetirementVille]

Tremendous thing. I would love one. In the 90s I built a Westfield aged 17 and the Pembleton gives me the same feeling of engagement.... that's what basic engineering, executed perfectly, does so well. I live miles away but I'd relocate to work somewhere like that. Doesn't sound like a job to me at all. I wonder if they'd let me build one myself from a kit? Hmmm.

[@PazLeBon]

prob better building iot yourself than an italian factory haha

[@RetirementVille]

@@PazLeBon I have an Italian motorbike....it's the most beautiful machine. It may not be the most reliable but the Italians do beauty better than anyone!

[@PazLeBon]

@@RetirementVille yeah for sure, i just got tired of looking good when broke down at the side of an isolated road or track where nobody could see how good i looked ;)

[@RetirementVille]

@@PazLeBon LOL... I take your point!

[@PazLeBon]

@@RetirementVille so we are equal, but they win on character maybe ;)

[@lefroy1]

Love, love, love the back story of this company! And especially that it's founder still has that original trike as his only vehicle.

[@Senrab46]

Such an interesting design. Moto Guzzi engines were used in 80s 90s to make replicar 3 wheeler Morgan's. Such a retro yet refreshingly enjoyable design in this day of boring ultra expensive ultra fast unrewarding machines. Thank you for reviewing. Great channel imo!

[@williamjmansfield8768]

80 something oldtimer who always liked old cars or motorcycles. Bought Motoguzzi while in Germany. Later dealt with Guzzi enthusiasts, one of whom made three wheeler much like the old Morgan. Enjoyed your presentation.

[@vernonwhite4660]

I had an MG TF 1500 when I was young: this video bought it all back to me ! Thankyou.😊

[@scottkeefe3969]

Your right when you say it’s about the spirit of older cars. I love old cars but the maintenance and upkeep coupled with design limitations makes them less than optimal in the fun department. I think the Pembelton and the Morgan v twin powered units are fantastic. I’d buy one if I could.

[@richardsteadman2246]

Another excellent video and now I want one so bad 😂 Brilliantly thought out components, not overpowered, decent luggage capacity for a nice nostalgic tour around the UK or further afield….perfect.

[@NeillWylie]

I'm a huge huge fan of lightweight cars and I absolutely love this. I used to have an MR2 MK3 which was quite light but this thing takes it to a new level.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

Im suprised us americans dont try building more of these types the way we have these giant displacement v twin motorcycle engines which are most popular here. This is the type of unique stuff id like to sse more of. Our society isni nthenhabit of all being npc zombies all driving the same grey plastic clunkers.. thats part of what attracted me to motorcycles was that the soul was still there

[@PazLeBon]

lol i remember those, what isnt another level :)

[@PazLeBon]

@@TheAnnoyingBoss the land of the V8 , you cant just overlook that magic

[@richiedudding7671]

Totally agree. I have a Morgan 3 wheeler and a Suffolk SS100 and can’t drive them enough. They are at both ends of the spectrum. Both of these are driven in winter time when dry. Like your comment about the excitement that these cars and some others that are kind of lost from the world today. Lucky to have a stable of manual V12 Vantages but driving and smiling in my Morgan, sunglasses essential is pure bliss. Keep these interesting cars coming 😎

[@Intriguing1998]

That has to be one of the most beautiful cars I have ever seen. Being able to have fun at sane speeds is the way to go.

[@rpjwhite]

The exhaust sounds so good. Looks like a cracking car. Would love to drive it to the Arctic circle and back.

[@brendareid8435]

I'm so glad that I watched this programme! What a beautiful picture you've built!!.... And describe the motor car in terms of Spirit! Indeed it's a lovely object ....

[@TheCloudhopper]

That sound from the Moto Guzzi V2 is just.... Moto Guzzi engines simply have the most soul.

[@alwynwatkins1955]

I fully agree we need more „engaging“ transportation. But as someone in the business, getting this homologated as a series production would be a nightmare. I remember Jay Leno once saying, and I am paraphrasing - It‘s more fun to drive a small under powered car where you really have to push the car, than it is to drive a car where you are constantly holding back and never getting close to the limits of the car. Well done Pembelton I wish you success.

[@michaelgillett5477]

Just watch your program again. I think this is about the 10th time now watching it is growing on me now as I’m getting older. I’m tempted to cash in my Sidecar outfit look at something like this. I’m not a great car lover, although I make my living working on cars, but all this is pretty once again. Thanks, Michael

[@Dave-sw2dm]

I had a Triumph Spitfire right after high school. Love these little cars. Wife, Kids, jobs, and then owned a Pontiac Solstice when in my 40s. I'm an avid motorcyclist and own a Moto Guzzi so I am definitely a fan. When I have to give up riding I might by a Miata if I can still enjoy driving when I reach the point of giving up motorcycles.

[@Freedom010967]

Stunning photography and in such a beautiful location. Well done Jonny 👏 👏👏 Love the car; characterful, lightweight, reasonably priced and handbuilt in such low numbers, you will not see another on the road.

[@petertrotman2366]

Pure essence of motoring joy. Great review capturing the visceral excitement. I only have the budget for a Fiat panda (169) 4x4, but it’s a lot of fun! (Like Harry Metcalfe chose as his ‘all is lost’ car in your interview) Taking a tin opener to it would probably leave something like a boxy Pendleton. Cars I’ve bought myself previously are Alfa Romeo 156 (2.0ts), Land Rover series 3 swb, 1963 Beetle, and a couple of Saabs (for practicality). I bicycle a lot too, but love motoring and have always felt every journey should be more of a special event! Like a mobile firework display that can move you around! Thanks, love the channel. Keep up the good work!

[@martinsaunders7925]

My two favorite cars to date have been a Fairthorpe electron minor (£100) and a '88 Pontiac fiero($450). Currently I have a Kia sportage soft top 4wd ($1250).

[@jamesvw]

Love you to Jonny! I would love one of these, my first car was a Citroen Visa called Ralph Lagoon! I currently drive two VW T25's so a T24 would fit in well. Also have an Australian 1964 Beetle that I'm restoring. Great channel, love watching it. Cheers

[@arnoldligtvoet3220]

Lovely "car" and would love to own one just for pure enjoyment and touring. Also : I really like how normal this channel and your videos are. None of the over the top sensationalism, just pure love for cars brought by an enthousiast. Well done!

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

Simple wonderful Jonny! My kind of car! The more we have ‘progressed;’ the more we have regressed. 👌🏼

[@slickedrightback]

Well done Jotnny, power to Wright is the most important. I have a 450 kg with small bhp v close to the ground. It feels very close to a single seater when pushed hard on B Road tarmac here in Brazil.

[@ade9685]

ID3 owner now 58 years young! Last rode a mc when I was 20 this looks amazing the experience you showed us driving it and the build process the engine, economy etc. etc. looks like something I would enjoy when it’s not raining! 33k is probably more than I’d part with but as a bespoke car cycle I can see there is that kind of money in it.

[@andydonnelly8677]

Thank you for your eclectic vision for this channel.😁👍

[@TheLateBrakeShow]

That's what we aim for, thanks for watching!

[@goosegog]

That's absolutely smashing and has the bonus of correcting the trait I dislike in the Morgan 3 Wheeler in that it has the correct number of wheels. I'd have this any day over one.

[@meanredspider]

As an owner of a 1932 BSA FW32 (basically a 4-wheeled BSA Trike) with the same configuration: V-Twin, FWD, etc I can totally see the appeal of this machine.

[@johnkoury1116]

Been assembling a machine shop to be able to make nearly any part that is necessary to support a new build. I am still recovering from being hit while riding my 1957 Harley Panhead. As soon as it gets a bit warmer here in Pennsylvania I will be starting a KZbin channel named Machines and Motors. The first project is a 1928 RIP Special Morgan 3 wheeler with 4 wheels. It will have an experimental airplane turbocharged opposed twin engine mated to an MG gearbox with a hand cast aluminum 2 piece adapter . The gearbox will connect via a driveshaft to an MG differential with beautiful wire wheels. The wood over steel frame will be covered with aircraft cloth and sprayed with plasticizer exactly like the airplanes of the time.. The next project in the queue is an MG monoposte boat tail Brooklands style race car with a turbocharged 4 cylinder or a supercharged 6 cylinder motor, manual gearbox and suitable rear differential with dual wheels in back. The third project is an AMG-Merceded 300 SL Gullwing restomod that has been in a friend's garage for nearly 20 years after starting the project himself. I hope to see everyone on the channel as we will have builds, prewar equipment repairs along with builds as well as any other interesting things I would find very interesting as would most of everyone on here.

[@bava67]

Being a huge air cooled VW fanatic, I can totally appreciate the power to weight ratio thing. Those look like a lot of fun. Always liked Morgan’s too

[@TSM13]

I am not a classic car fan at all and would usually hate anything like this. However this appeals massively, mainly because of the story behind it. The ‘factory’ tour was brilliant. It’s also beautifully proportioned too and pretty too!

[@Jerbod2]

I know this isnt the point but what do you hate about old cars exactly?

[@sonicstep]

@@Jerbod2 Good question.!

[@huntsbychainsaw5986]

I would absolutely love to buy one, the open-air ride, the union of man and machine on its most basic level, the thrum of the engine, and the thrill of the drive. That is peace to me.

[@sunilnijran1515]

I think this car is gorgeous!! I was considering the Morgan Super 3, but after seeing this.. and the added security of 4 wheels.. I would definitely consider it!! Also, I love the ingenious luggage solution!! Do Pembleton do a bespoke set of luggage to go with it.. and can they colour co-ordinate with your car?

[@gerrymcivor374]

What a thoroughly enjoyable review that was to watch and you obviously enjoyed making it. I've always had a liking for small and minimalist cars and that looks almost perfect. Thank you.

[@annieluctor7524]

What a wonderful machine. Absolutely fantastic. There must be something in the Worcestershire air, what with Morgan and this. Even merely watching Jonny enjoying himself, I couldn't stop grinning.

[@joefoster8839]

The ‘sauce’ or true motoring!.

[@twcmaker]

Ahhh spot on. The Worcestershire area is an area of beauty and creativity.

[@MichaelBranque]

Oh my GOD ! I DO LOOOVVE that kind of cars. Light and with sensations. The Catherham 660 with a Suzuki is a good-good one ! Yes. I love this Pembleton T24… It’s a V7 Guzzi engine, as it seems… Je suis un vieux Français de 64 ans et motard, et, en plus, qui adore The Great Britain™ ! Celai complique un peu les choses… Love this vidéo ! Yeah !!!

[@rob_erto]

I bought one in kit form several years back. I'm getting close to finishing my other projects and it's next in line. I bought it because I love the quirkiness and story behind it. I've gone with the 4-wheeler though, just prefer it! I bought it knowing I wouldn't build it straight away, I had a feeling it would go up in value and maybe become a factory-built machine and I really wanted to build it myself. There have been a few upgrades since I bought mine so I'll be going back to see if I can get the new suspension set up etc.. Can't wait to get started on this project. Take my daughter to school in it when its finished. haha

[@user-mc1qo6su7t]

whel done bough it up frond ,i am looking for a second hans and make it a lefthand drive.

[@timloer5419]

Absolutely gorgeous! What drew me to watch this video was exactly what you said at the end about capturing the spirt of pre-war automotive experience in this modern world. My wife and I watch a lot of BBC series, and we love some of the older British cars and their compact utilitarian design. Example; the original mini Cooper, and MG sedans. Some of the old lories from the fifties and before are quite adorable. Thanks for this one! I love this “car” ha!

[@PazLeBon]

the trouble was they wee all crap build quality, pretty much every single british brand

[@shanehnorman]

This is what the modern Morgan Three-Wheeler should have been. I'd have a Pembleton - three or four wheels - over the Morgan any day. Using the 2CV's suspension design was a brilliant stroke.

[@charlescherry1733]

Great video & thought provoking wrap-up. I think you nailed why I’m attracted to a car like this or the Morgan Super 3 - I don’t think I can get The Pembleton here in the States - it’s the essence and the flavor of veteran / vintage motoring without the steep learning curve and all the work; it’s “motoring” - it’s more driving and less piloting - it engages all of the senses and rewards the mental effort of getting to “know” the machine with which one is partnered…some might say like knowing a horse… Not safe enough for the interstate / motorway, but safer than a 2-wheel motorcycle and GOBS more fun than an SUV on country roads and small town streets (and maybe even city streets…).

[@ukulelemelee]

Former bugeye/frogeye owner and current Moto Guzzi rider, this checks a lot of boxes. Being in the US where bigger is better (to a degree) I'd love to see this in left hand drive and the Guzzi 1400 motor!

[@MrBenHaynes]

I reckon the water cooled 1000cc donk from the MG V100 Mandello would be just the ticket!

[@adriantimberlake4038]

I have always liked 3 wheeler Morgans, I often look at the auction sites and wonder if I'd fit in one, the newest Morgan kind of captures the essence of the old models but not quite. This one does it in bucket loads, and seems to be at a reasonable price. Just like it was said, I WANT ONE, so much so that I'm thinking about how it's going to fit in my garage. We need more reviews like this.

[@TheAnnoyingBoss]

I think 4 wheels is the way but with a big fat vtwin maybe even a straight 4. In this kinda design is very timeless

[@PazLeBon]

@@TheAnnoyingBoss 2 or 4, never ever ever ever 3 haha

[@sadubone]

Such a cool car. Love the story. I would love one. I drive an Acura RSX. I love the light weight analog feel of it. Having an open air 'roadster' as it were would be an upgrade. As you said it makes you feel more like you're interacting with the scenery rather than just driving by it and that is what I've always loved. Driving is my favorite thing, having the car be a part of the experience and the road your on as well makes it more so in my opinion. I think this car nails it.

[@brianbertram3521]

I love this and I have the motorbike the engine comes from. One thing to point out though is that the power to weight ratio of a really light car is massively impacted by the drivers weight but the power to weight of a heavy powerful car isn't. For example this Pembleton has a better power to weight than an A35AMG however as soon as you add a 100KG passenger then the A35AMG has a better power to weight ratio. Yes, I did the excel spreadsheet of various vehicles this morning. It's been a productive morning at work!

[@Lee-70ish]

Love the looks. Rented a Morgan 3 wheeler with the S&S 2 ltr vee twin . Great car, great mx 5 gearbox, huge fun & the biggest pile of junk engine Morgan have fitted on the 3 wheeler. Total bag of nuts and bolts. This Pendleton looks great and I hope its a big success However I just wonder if like Morgan going witb a bikes air cooled lump will have the same overheating problems. The bodywork sat directly behind the cylinders acts as an air dam and stops free air flow . Hence why Morgan started fitting a fan unit. Good like guys though I wish you well . The Maroon colour with the Brass is fantastic.

[@samrobinson566]

So Jonny, the key question is; when you told Gordon Murray about the car, what did he say? "I've already specced a lightweight version of it", maybe? 😂

[@simongibbs3936]

Bloody brilliant! Love that these companies exist making eccentric vehicles. Probably the best “going to a country pub” car ever! A shandy and a ploughman’s then the long way home!

[@stevetemple4632]

I absolutely love this whole concept. I currently ride a Canam for the same feeling. I would love one here in N Z.

[@deltacx1059]

It's called not over engineering the thing, modern cars are just trash.

[@notroll1279]

Come on... If cars hadn't moved on from this, there would have been hundreds of thousands of additional road fatalities over the last eight decades in Britain alone.

[@deltacx1059]

@@notroll1279 I think mandatory and comprehensive drivers training programs would reduce issues significantly. And honestly modern cars are not bad because of improvements, they are bad because they have overcomplicated luxury panic bunkers, crush zones and airbags are good but many other ACTIVE safety features further reduce driver skill and awareness as well as make the vehicle harder to service. Every other mode of transportation requires more actual training than a car.

[@notroll1279]

@@deltacx1059 The manufacturers wouldn't buy them if consumers didn't ask for them. For reasons unknown to me, a lot more Americans believe they need a pickup truck than they might do woth a Corolla or Jetta - and it's not the rustic barebone ones without aircon, electric windows or sound system they want. In the UK, "pipping the Joneses" has lead to BMWs pushing Mondeos off the throne of middle-classiness... with all the complexity that came with them. Everyone likes childhood memories of simpler stuff... but whenever memory lane goes far enough, I remember the two day drives to holidays at the Mediterranean in a car without air conditioning. So much as though a Pembleton is a lovely top for a Sunday in the countryside... it can't be more than a third or forth car....

[@griffins750]

@@deltacx1059I get what you mean… I think your wrong but I do get where your coming from. With that said I think certain modern cars are very special. Cars like the Lexus LC500, Porsche 911 GT3, RS, or ST. The ND Miata, or GR86. Or GR Corolla. To name a few.

[@lewismcnicholas2631]

Been looking into one of these for a good while - fantastic review! For me personally its having that sense of occasion without too much intensity and feeling like you need to be flat out too get the most pleasure out of it. Something to decompress with and take life as it comes/have a drive out with the Mrs without having to be told to behave! Would be a great compliment to my S1 Elise TT190