Highlights

Quintessential Series 5 roadster
1,725cc powerplant and 4-speed manual transmission
53,283 miles, warranted by an impressive paperwork file
Fully restored and resprayed in 2006
Colour-matched hardtop

The Appeal

What we now recognise as the Sunbeam Alpine was introduced in 1959. They were fanciful looking motors - these cars were designed principally by Kenneth Howes, who doubtless brought over his experience stateside into the car’s distinctive profile. With its long nose and subtle curves, the car was a winner through and through - with a level of refinement to their interiors that seriously challenged the wider market.

Sadly, Rootes Group didn’t have the resources to market against the sheer domination of MG in the roadster space - so these impressive vehicles went somewhat unappreciated in their time. That means these are rarer, more unique and arguably more likely to raise admiring glances than its 60s rivals.

This particular Alpine boasts plenty going for it. Thoughtfully modified, with a low mileage and an older restoration perfectly bedded in, it’s ready and waiting to hit the road in style.

The History and Paperwork

Built in 1966
Restored and repainted in 2006
The car was later placed in dry, heated storage
Purchased from a deceased estate in May 2021
Since then the car has undergone some sensible modifications and servicing
The car currently indicates 53,283 miles on a five-figure odometer
The vendor informs us that this is verified by the car’s paperwork
MOT exempt and last tasted in 2020
Invoices totalling £22,000 and 31 MOT certificates dating back to 1984
This paperwork file includes:
- A photographic record of the 2006 restoration
- A swathe of invoices dating back at least 30 years
- A collection of old tax discs
- A selection of handbooks, manuals and the AA insurance wallet
- Some advertising materials
- Warranty leaflet

The Interior

Refined interior with vinyl seats and walnut
Seats in good order with no rips or tears
We note some light deformation to the driver’s seat
Door cards are showing some scratches and marks, commensurate with wear
The dashboard’s wood veneers are in good order
However, we do note some light delamination
The original instruments are all in situ with no cracks or faults
Some light patina to the interior chromework
Wood-trimmed Moto-Lita steering wheel in good order
A modern radio unit has been mounted underneath the dash
Megavox speakers have also been mounted in the rear bench
Some light wear to the vinyl trims
The carpets look in good order
The headlining of the hard top is in good order with light discolouration
Boot is in good order with solid floors and a spare wheel

The Exterior

Impressive Howes design with subtle curves and sharp lines
Panel fit is in good order with no unseemly gaps
Painted in a stylish red livery with a colour-matched hard top
Paintwork is in good order with light wear
We note some microblistering to the boot
Some heavier wear towards the sills, though no visible perforation
Chrome carries some patina though nothing too significant
All branding is present and correct
Glasswork and lenses in good condition
Matching hard top and its mountings in good order
Complete with a black tonneau cover
The car is sat on its original wheelset which look in good order
Shod in a full set of Goodrich tyres which look in good condition
Underneath, the car shows some light corrosion but appears solid

The Mechanics

1,725cc I4 powerplant
4-speed manual transmission
Recently fitted with a Weber carburettor
The car also carries a new ignition unit
The engine bay looks in good order
The car is reportedly driving very well with no issues
The vendor notes that the overdrive is working very well
We’ve no reports of any leaks, knocks, bangs, rattle or smoke
The car is reportedly ready and waiting to drive away

Summary

With that winning design, a distinguished interior and a great history file, this car is an excellent example of an unsung hero of the British 60s-era roadster.

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.