Lot 205: 1966 Sunbeam Alpine

The Alpine was a sporty coupé from Rootes' Sunbeam marque. The original was launched in 1953 as the first vehicle to bear the Sunbeam name alone since 1920. The Alpine was derived from the previous Sunbeam-Talbot 90. It was named supposedly by Norman Garrad, (works Competition Department) who was heavily involved in the Sunbeam-Talbot successes in the Alpine Rally in the early 1950's using the saloon model. It was a four-cylinder car, but since it was developed from a saloon platform, it suffered from the results of serious compromises, and remained in production for only two years.Kenneth Howes and Jeff Crompton were tasked with doing a complete redesign in 1956, with the goal of producing a dedicated sports car aimed principally at the US market. Ken Howes contributed some 80% of the overall design work, which bears more than incidental resemblance to the early Ford Thunderbird - Ken Howe had worked at Ford before joining Rootes. The "Series" Alpine started production in 1959. One of the original prototypes still survives and was raced by British saloon car champion Bernard Unett. The Alpine was produced in four subsequent revisions through to 1968 with successive increases in displacement and engine tuning improved the car tremendously. Total production numbered around 70,000. The car enjoyed relative success in competition, both in Europe and America.Manufactured in 1966 this particular example is described as being in good overall condition. The car has been with the current owner since 2002 and previously with one owner from 1988. In 2004 the car benefited from a re-trim and re-spray and is supplied with a large quantity of bills. Finished in white with a red interior HKJ 660D is offered with a rare hardtop, V5 document, current MoT valid until October 2007 and the original workshop manual. An exciting little car for the coming summer months.