Description

1966 Sunbeam Alpine Series IV B

Fully restored a few years ago and barely used since; Series V 1,725cc engine with unleaded head; overdrive; alloys; hard top

Sunbeam announced its Alpine sports model in 1959. The new car was a change of direction for the firm and was aimed squarely at the younger MG/Triumph TR buyer.

The first series was powered by a 78bhp 1,494cc four-cylinder engine, enlarged to the 80bhp 1,592cc unit in the 1962 Series II. In 1963 the Series III arrived with larger front brake discs, a bigger boot and a revised interior. Power went up by another 2bhp the following year with the Series IV, easily recognised by its much more modest tail fins.

The final model was the Series V of 1965 which had a 92bhp twin carb 1,725cc engine, enough to power the Alpine to 100mph. An oil cooler and an alternator were standard fittings as was a close-ratio all-synchro gearbox. Production of the Alpine V continued until 1968 when it was quietly dropped from the Rootes line-up.

This smart 1966 Series IV B sadly comes with no history but an online check shows that it had one owner from 1993 – 2014. It was then acquired by a Gloucestershire gentleman who fully restored the car. Although there are no bills to show exactly what was done, we are told that the engine is a later 1,725cc unit from a Series V (no. B395016651GT) which was fully overhauled and fitted with an unleaded head and electronic ignition. The flywheel was also skimmed and a new clutch fitted.

The brakes and suspension were rebuilt including new rear shock absorbers. On the inside it got a new walnut dash, MotoLita steering wheel, new carpets and a new mohair hood. The bodywork was also restored and repainted to a good standard in Lancia Light Red Mica which suits the car well. Equipped with overdrive, it rides on Minilite alloys shod with a set of what look like new tyres.

Our vendor acquired the car in 2015 and fitted a new Weber twin-choke carb (as recommended by the Owner’s Club) but the original Stromberg twin carbs are also included. He has kept the car garaged but has barely used it, the last MOT having expired in March 2016 (with no advisories), the odometer showing that it has only covered around 60 miles since.

Starting promptly and running well as we have moved it around on site, it will doubtless benefit from some precautionary checks before venturing forth once more. It also comes with a white GRP hardtop that would benefit from a bit of tidying and would need to be collected from the Gloucester area should the new owner feel so inclined.  

For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email [email protected]