In current ownership for approximately ten years, garage stored and sparingly used
Professional inspection carried out in summer 2025 with no mechanical concerns noted, according to the vendor
Brake and exhaust work completed during the 2025 inspection
The Appeal
The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus may be a bit of a mouthful to repeat, but it was far from mealy-mouthed. This was one of the sharpest, most exciting homologation specials of the 80s. Built to allow the Sunbeam to compete in Group 4 rallying, it paired the Chrysler Sunbeam's compact hatchback body with a Lotus-developed 2.2-litre twin-cam engine and a five-speed ZF gearbox. Its competition pedigree - crowned by a World Rally Championship manufacturers' title in 1981 - has ensured its place as a truly remarkable classic.
This 1982 example has been in the current owner's hands for approximately ten years, having been sourced through the Avenger and Sunbeam Owners' Club from a seller in Northern Ireland. Garage-stored in the north east of Scotland and used only sparingly, it's a highly original example. The vendor describes it as very original, very driveable, and proudly notes that it pulls like a train, corners on rails, and produces a great sound.
A professional inspection last summer found the mechanicals to be in order, with brake discs, pads, and exhaust work carried out at the same time. Earlier work during the current ownership has included a replacement radiator, new tyres, carburettor tuning, and the installation of rear seat belts. The interior seats were re-covered at the time of purchase, though a few very minor tears are noted.
It's not often that we see one of these impressive classics, and we're sure it'll prove very popular at auction.image.png1.46 MB
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