Beschreibung
Rapier Convertible SIIIA – Concours Standard
The Rapier was produced by the Rootes Group of companies between 1955 and 1976. The first generation Audax “Series” cars (with several revisions) were produced between 1955 and 1967. Designed in-house the shape was inspired by the Raymond Loewy design organisation and reflected the trans-Atlantic styling hugely popular in the mid-1950’s.
The Rapier had performance to match the styling with an engine shared with the Sunbeam Alpine sportscar and the convertible is arguably one of the best looking four-seater soft-tops from this era of motoring. The Series IIIA is arguably the ultimate incarnation of the Rapier convertible enjoying more robust mechanical underpinnings with 1950’s styling and good examples rarely come to market.
During COVID two (bored} local engineers and serial car restorers wanted to find a worthwhile project to complete during lockdown. In July 2019 they were contacted by a local enthusiast who had discovered a 1961 Rapier that had been in storage since 1978 – they could not believe their luck!
Close inspection revealed an exceptionally sound and very original SIIIA Rapier and a deal was done.
Work Completed:
· All components removed and car placed on a rollover jig
· Paint removed
· Front wings, slam panel and valance were new (in 1978)
· Minimal repairs to rest of car – remarkably sound
· Suspension – new coil springs and shocks
· Engine stripped/ new pistons fitted
· Brake overhaul including new discs/ refurb callipers, rear wheel cylinders and NOS master cylinder.
· Wiring loom checked – new rear loom fitted
· Professionally resprayed in Pippin Red (Rootes colour)
· Seats had suffered in storage - new interior commissioned
· New carpets (Coverdale)
· Dashboard and instruments refurbished
· Hood frame aligned and NOS hood ordered from America
· Rear window mechanisms overhauled
· Chrome replated/ replaced
· 15” whitewall crossply tyres fitted
· MOT’ed and on the road
The car is simply better than new - the Rapier looks, drives. sounds superb and comes with a summary of the restoration including a memory stick containing pictures of the work completed.
Ready for the summer this absolutely stunning classic really does tick all the boxes and we expect her to find an appreciative new keeper very quickly.
