The Barnard Formula Six was first designed in 1965 by Tom Barnard of Sittingbourne, Kent, UK, originally for his son Thomas Barnard junior, however interest in the vehicle grew and Tom's business, The Barnard Engineering Company Limited, a manufacturing and fabrication company soon diverted resources and course to produce many more Formula Sixes.

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Launched at the 1967 Racing Car Show, considerable interest was generated and orders soon began to be placed. The vehicle was available pre-built or in kit form and with engines ranging from 3-5hp, prices started at £115 as a complete vehicle minus the engine and rose to £150 plus. Approximately 400 vehicles were built between 1967 and the early 1970's  with buyers located around the world. 

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Tom also created the Junior Racing Car Club whose purpose was to educate and provide children with vehicle control skills and road safety awareness through the use of the Formula Sixes, this proved to be a popular club with many children joining and participating in events throughout the UK. The Junior Racing Car Club also managed to achieve support from the Shell Oil organisation.

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Special Lotus style versions of the Formula Six were also created by mounting a fibreglass body onto the steel main chassis of the formula six. These vehicles were produced in low numbers and featured prominently on a publication of Look-in magazine in 1971 featuring Colin Chapman's (Lotus) son Clive Chapman in the driver's seat.

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