Exploring the Legacy of the Burlington Arrow Car

Where was the Burlington Arrow Car made? This question often arises among classic car enthusiasts intrigued by the history of kit cars. The Burlington Arrow Car, a notable creation from Burlington Cars, was produced in the United Kingdom. Known for its vintage-inspired design and distinctive craftsmanship, the Burlington Arrow embodies a bygone era of motoring while still turning heads on modern roads.


Origins of the Burlington Arrow Car

The Burlington Arrow Car traces its roots back to the 1970s and 1980s, a time when the kit car market in Britain was thriving. Burlington Cars was founded by Haydn Davis, who envisioned creating vehicles that combined timeless styling cues with the flexibility for DIY assembly.

  • British Heritage: Burlington Cars was established in England and catered primarily to UK-based hobbyists, although some kits found their way to other countries over time.
  • Kit Car Phenomenon: Enthusiasts would purchase the Arrow kits and assemble the vehicles using readily available donor parts—often from classic British cars like the Triumph Herald—to cut down on manufacturing costs.

Design and Engineering

The Burlington Arrow took cues from vintage roadsters, featuring a long hood, open-top styling, and classic lines reminiscent of 1930s sports cars. These retro aesthetics paired with more modern underpinnings to offer an experience that was nostalgic yet (relatively) practical.

  • Chassis: Builders would commonly use a Triumph Herald chassis or similar platform for structural support and drivetrain components.
  • Bodywork: Made of lightweight materials like fiberglass, the kit was simple enough for dedicated enthusiasts to finish at home, but the finished product had a professional, eye-catching style.

Popularity and Collector Appeal

Despite being a kit car, the Burlington Arrow garnered a loyal following among hobbyists who appreciated its distinct combination of classic looks and hands-on assembly. Today, Arrow models still appear at classic car shows and club gatherings across the UK, and occasionally in other parts of the world, as proud owners showcase their completed masterpieces.

Why Collectors Love the Arrow

  1. Unique Heritage: The Arrow harkens back to a golden age of British motoring.
  2. DIY Enthusiasm: Owners take pride in building or restoring the car themselves.
  3. Timeless Look: Inspired by vintage sports car design, it appeals to enthusiasts seeking a retro flair without the high costs of authentic pre-war automobiles.

FAQs About the Burlington Arrow Car

  1. Who designed the Burlington Arrow Car?
    The Arrow was the brainchild of Haydn Davis, founder of Burlington Cars in the UK.
  2. What donor vehicle was commonly used for the Arrow kit?
    Many builders utilized the Triumph Herald chassis and drivetrain components, though variations existed.
  3. When was the Burlington Arrow Car first introduced?
    The Arrow was introduced in the late 1970s to early 1980s, aligning with the British kit car boom.
  4. Is the Burlington Arrow still in production?
    Burlington Cars are no longer producing new Arrow kits; however, existing kits or partially built projects sometimes surface in classic car markets.
  5. Is it difficult to find replacement parts for a Burlington Arrow?
    While the kits themselves are no longer manufactured, many components can be sourced from donor cars like the Triumph Herald or from classic car suppliers that cater to vintage British vehicles.

In summary, where was the Burlington Arrow Car made? It was crafted in the United Kingdom by Burlington Cars, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts who appreciate classic design paired with hands-on kit assembly.