Lot 001: 1960 Sunbeam Alpine

Introduced in 1959, the Sunbeam Alpine was a natural rival to cars such as the MGA and Triumph TR3. Built around a steel monocoque, it featured independent coil-sprung front suspension, a 'live' rear axle and disc / drum brakes. An attractive design, its lines were predominantly the responsibility of Kenneth Howes. Swindon born, this former employee of Ford' Detroit Styling Centre had also been schooled under Raymond Loewy. As such, the Alpine's 'micro Thunderbird' profile was perhaps little coincidence. Initially powered by a 1494cc OHV four-cylinder engine developing some 78bhp @ 5,300rpm, the be-finned sportscar was reputedly capable of 98mph. While later versions boasted 1592cc and 1725cc units performance was little improved. Finished in red with red hide upholstery and black carpets, this particular left-hand example appears to have been the subject of an older restoration. Forming part of the David Lynch collection in recent years and dry stored during that time, it was apparently running when first acquired. Judged to be "generally sound" with regard to its bodywork, the Sunbeam will nevertheless require recommissioning prior to use.