Description
Just 3, 759 Sunbeam Rapier Series V's were manufactured by the Rootes Group between September 1965 and June 1967, making it the rarest of all the Series models. This Series V is the 2, 456th, first registered on 1st July 1966. As a Series V power is provided by the 1725cc, 5 Main Bearing Engine, generating 91bhp through a four speed gearbox. This Series V is finished in the stunning Two Tone Colour Scheme of Autumn Gold Metallic (Code 68) with Embassy Black Roof (Code 01) and Black interior.
In 1989 the first Registered Keeper put this Rapier into storage in a dry garage, where it remained until his death in 2019. I then became the second Registered Keeper and recommissioned it. Recommissioning included:
- full brake overhaul with new Master Cylinder, Servo, Discs, Pistons and Pads, Rear Wheel Cylinders, Pads and Hoses
- replacement of all Fuel Lines and installation of a Weber 28/ 36 DCD Carburettor and K and N Air Filter
- refurbishment of the Cooling System with new Water Pump, Thermostat Cover and Cap, Thermostat and Fan Belt all protected with Bluecol Antifreeze
- replacement of Clutch Master and Slave Cylinders
- shotblasting and powder coating all five Wheels before fitting new Continental ContiEContact 3 165/ 80 13 Tyres, chrome Hub Caps and Rim Embellishers
- a new Pye period radio
- a full service with Castrol GTX oil, followed by annual maintenance checks completed by a specialist Classic Car Mechanic and Engineer.
The bodywork and paint are in very good condition with just a few minor blemishes. The chrome is excellent throughout. Inside the black vinyl upholstery is unmarked. The full range of instruments mounted in the lustrous Walnut veneered Dashboard of Speedometer, Rev Counter, Oil Pressure Gauge, Fuel Gauge, Ammeter and Warning Lights all work. The first owner added after market instruments, which I have left untouched as part of its character and history. My love for the Sunbeam Rapier Series V stemmed from learning to drive in the 1970's in a Hillman Minx Series VI, also a final Series model featuring the 1725cc Engine. As a two door, pillarless Coupe the Rapier was designed to appeal to the sporting driver, offering enhanced performance with a more powerful, aluminium headed Engine and improved cornering and handling, combined with the luxury of a walnut veneered Dashboard featuring a full range of instruments and an adjustable Steering Wheel. When it came to buying a classic Rootes car, it had to be a Rapier for me.
