Description
1954 SUNBEAM ALPINE DROPHEAD MKIII - FOR RESTORATIONThe 1954 Sunbeam Alpine Convertible Mk III (technically configured as an open 2-seater roadster) is an exceptionally rare, hand-built British sports car produced by the Rootes Group and coachbuilt by Thrupp & Maberly. Introduced in late 1954 to succeed the original Mark I (there was no Mark II), the Mk III was highly exclusive, with only 300 examples manufactured before production ceased in 1955. Powered by a 2, 267cc (2. 3L) inline-four OHV engine. Performance: Developed 80 horsepower at 4, 200 rpm, with a top speed of roughly 91–95 mph. Transmission: 4-speed manual. Unlike the earliest versions, a Laycock-de-Normanville overdrive unit came standard on the Mk III. While a steering column-mounted shifter was standard, many desirable surviving examples feature factory or aftermarket floor-mounted gear conversions. Chassis & Body: Derived from the Sunbeam-Talbot 90 saloon, offering more luxury and weather protection than contemporary MGs, but compromised by a heavy chassis weight. Influenced by Raymond Loewy's design team. It features flowing lines, a prominent vertical chrome grille, and unique rear fins. No Outside Handles: True to its pure roadster design, the car features no external door handles and no roll-up windows. Occupants must reach inside the cockpit to release the doors, utilizing detachable side curtains for weather protection. Interior: Highly trimmed in leather with an Art Deco-styled dashboard. Mk III revisions included wider, abutting front seats with a revised centre armrest encasing the handbrake. The model achieved cinematic icon status when a sapphire blue version was driven by Grace Kelly alongside Cary Grant in Alfred Hitchcock's 1955 classic film To Catch a Thief. The model line was named after its dominant performance in the Alpine Rallies, famously driven to victory and gold cups by racing legends Stirling Moss and Sheila Van Damm. Because of the extremely low production run of the Mk III variant, they are highly coveted. It is estimated that fewer than 200 total Mk I and Mk III Alpines survive globally today. This example is ripe for restoration throughout. It is said to be 95% complete and is supplied with the original engine (currently not fitted)It is showing 63, 000 miles on the odometer. It is an original right hand drive example and This supplied with new replacement floor panels and new side screens. The hood is deficient. Only 1582 Alpines were made of which 402 were right hand drive UK supplied. Only 88 of these were the Mark III so this is a highly desirable example. A full list of what is included will follow.This vehicle is for sale as it stands and as described. Please assume that the vehicle does not start or run. This vehicle is located near Colchester Essex CO5. COLLECTION CAN BE MADE FROM JULY 3RDWe advise bringing trailers with winches as vehicles in this sale have not been run in some time. Some have low, flat or no tyres. It is recommended to bring an extra pair of hands to help with loading. Video available on request.
