Photos provided by the vendor

Highlights

Highly original classic in need of some restoration work
Originally based in the UK, now based in France
No known modifications throughout

The Appeal

Introduced in 1948, and manufactured for six years, the Sunbeam-Talbot 90 is one of those quintessential executive cars that just embodies their class. With curvy arches, nicely appointed interiors and distinctive, long-nosed body shapes, it’s little wonder that the cars were a solid performer for their manufacturer.

This example, originally based in the UK, has gone on a few adventures before ending up in France, where it was intended as a project. Sadly, this wasn’t to be, and the car is now awaiting a new owner to bring it up to former glories.

The History and Paperwork

First registered in 1952
Exported from the UK in 2020 to Serbia with its previous owner
Purchased shortly afterwards to the current owner, who’s based in France
Car indicates 49,296 miles on a five-figure odometer
Due to the age of the vehicle it’s likely it’s been ‘around the clock’
Originally intended as a project, the car has largely laid dormant in dry storage
Has been started and dusted around once a month, according to the vendor
The car is unable to pass the French Technical Inspection in current condition
As a result, it should be treated as a project

The Interior

Sunroof
Original material in tan and beige
Seats are in original condition, with extensive cracks to the leather
Driver’s seat has a tear in the bolster, repaired with silver tape
Dashboard is in good order, with all instruments clean and readable
The fuel gauge has seized and will need some attention
Original steering wheel in good order
Carpets are worn, but not severely
Headlining in fair order with some staining
We can’t spot any signs of water ingress from the sunroof
The boot appears in good condition and carries the original toolkit

The Exterior

Repainted between 2017 and 2020
Bodywork appears in good order with some areas of corrosion
The paintwork is generally in good condition with light blemishing
Patina on the chromework, though no peel we can spot
Glasswork and lenses appears in good order with no major faults
Car is sitting on its part-painted disc wheels, which are in good order
The vendor notes that one tyre is non-compliant
However, the rest look in good order to our eye
The car's sills and underside show some heavy corrosion, particularly on the jacking points
The vendor also points out that a ball-joint is in need of replacement

The Mechanics

Powered by the 2267cc I4 powerplant
4-speed manual transmission
Engine bay appears in good order
We’ve not been made aware of any mechanical modifications
The vendor has taken the car on around 4 journeys since 2020
The vendor also reports a few short neighbourhood trips, though nothing significant
Apart from this, the car has remained static and been started once a month
The battery will be changed prior to sale

Summary

Upon release in 1948, The Times reported the Talbot 90 as being one of the prettiest cars and the market, and with its quintessentially British aesthetics, it’s certainly quite the looker.

This is a superb prospect for any enthusiast, and will make for a prized motor when restored.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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