The Powerdrive was a three-wheeled microcar with a rear-mounted 322 cc (20 cu in) Anzani two cylinder, two stroke 16.5 metric horsepower (12 kW) engine.[1]

Powerdrive
Powerdrive microcar
Overview
ManufacturerPowerdrive Ltd
Model yearsNovember 1955 - February 1957
AssemblyWood Green, London
DesignerDavid Gottlieb
Body and chassis
Classmicrocar
Body style2-door convertible
LayoutRMR
RelatedCoronet (automobile)
Powertrain
EngineAnzani 322 cc (20 cu in) twin-cylinder Two-stroke engine.
Transmission3-speed and reverse manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase8 ft 8 in (2.64 m) [1]
Length12 ft 0 in (3.66 m) [1]
Width4 ft 8.5 in (1.435 m) [1]
Kerb weight8 long cwt (410 kg)[1]

The car was designed by David Gottlieb, whose Powerdrive company had previously worked with the Allard Motor Company on the development of the abortive Allard Clipper.[2] Like the Clipper, the Powerdrive was devised to exploit the lower tax rate then applicable in the UK to three wheeled vehicles weighing less than 8 long cwt (410 kg). Physically, the Powerdrive was larger than other cars in this class, with full-size 13-inch wheels and a large amount of luggage space at both the front and rear.[3] The car's design and styling attracted much praise at its launch at the Dorchester Hotel in London in July 1955.[4][5]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e "The 322cc Two-Stroke Powerdrive". Motor Cycling. 13 December 1956.
  2. ^ Marshall, Tony (1999). "4". Microcars. Stroud: Sutton Publishing Limited. p. 72. ISBN 0-7509-2082-3.
  3. ^ Zeichner, Walter (1990). Kleinwagen International. Gerlingen: Bleicher Verlag. p. 190. ISBN 3-88350-160-3.
  4. ^ "Daily Mirror: July 30, 1955 Edition". Daily Mirror. 30 July 1955. p. 5.
  5. ^ "Daily Express: July 30, 1955 Edition". Daily Express. 30 July 1955. p. 5.
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