Marque: Sunbeam - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Sunbeam
The Sunbeam Motor Car Co. Ltd. Was started in 1905 following development of cycles and then cars from diverse beginnings (starting in 1887 with John Marston and his ‘Sunbeamland Cycle Factory’). Designed by Angus Shaw, the first product of the new Sunbeam company was the 16/20, introduced in 1907. Louis Coatalen (previously with Humber and Hillman) became Designer in 1909 and joint Managing…
Sunbeam Rapier/Alpine (Fastback)
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1967-76 - Bodywork:
Two-door coupé - Engine:
Overhead valve in-line four cylinder 1725cc Alpine: 74bhp; Rapier/H120: 82/95bhp - 0-60 mph:
Alpine: 15 sec; Rapier: 12+ sec H120: 11 sec - Top Speed:
Alpine: 90+ mph; Rapier: 100+ mph; H120: 105+ mph - MPG:
25-33
Often overlooked in favour of coupes from Ford, Vauxhall, Opel and other manufacturers, the fastback Rapiers (and the less expensive, more basic single carb Alpines) were always stylish, lively and very well-equipped. The H120 versions - endowed with twin Weber DCOE carbs, Rostyle sports wheels, a rear spoiler and a higher axle ratio - were especially impressive in their day. Interest is growing as the many attributes of the surviving examples are becoming appreciated although you ned to look far and wide to find one. If you are after a four/five seater sporty fixedhead classic that isn’t a Capri, then these Sunbeams should certainly be on your list.
Sunbeam / Talbot 80, 90, Alpine
PRICE: Saloon: £500 - £5000; Drophead Coupé: £1000 - £9000; Alpine: £4000 - £12,000+
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1948-56 - Bodywork:
four-door saloon; two-door drophead coupe; two-seater sports (Alpine) - Engine:
Overhead valve in-line four-cylinder 80: 1185cc 47bhp; 90: 1944cc 64bhp; 90 Mk II/IIA/III: 2267cc 70-97bhp - Top Speed:
80: 70+ -104 mph - MPG:
80: 28-32; 90: 24-30+
Solidly-built, comfortable, well-equipped and enjoyable to drive, these cars were well-respected in their time. Today these attractive vehicles are still revered. The 80 is no road burner. However, the 90 has a 1944cc unit under the bonnet - a much better bet for long distance classic motoring. The Alpine sports version was inspired by George Hartwell, and this uprated model (based on Mark IIA) had a stiffer chassis, modded front suspension, higher compression ratio and 80bhp. The Mark III 90 saloon and drophead were also fitted with the Alpine-type 80 bhp engine, for a still respectable turn of speed. Prices are starting to rise across the board on all models.
