Sunbeam Alpine (1953-55)

COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) is a beautiful classic car, but like many vintage vehicles, it has its share of common faults. Here are some issues to be aware of: 

1. **Rust**: The lack of factory-applied rust protection means rust can be a significant problem. The most important areas to check are along the length of the sills and the hinge mounts. 

2. **Body Seams**: Lead-loaded body seams were gradually dropped from the Series III onwards, so panel gaps should only be visible on later models. 

3. **Performance**: The 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine from the Humber Hawk, while reliable, only produced 80bhp, which made the car's performance relatively poor. 

4. **Handling**: The car was designed with the American market in mind, which meant stiffer springs up front and more positive steering. However, this also made the car feel somewhat "podgy" to drive. Despite these issues, the Sunbeam Alpine remains a beloved classic, especially for its beautiful design and rallying success, including an outright win at the 1955 Monte Carlo Rally. 

***** 

Generations/Trim Levels

The Sunbeam Alpine was produced in three main generations: 

1. **First Generation (1953-1955)**: This was the initial production run of the Alpine, based on the Sunbeam-Talbot 90. 

2. **Second Generation (1959-1968)**: This generation saw the introduction of five 'Series' models, each with various improvements and updates. 

3. **Fastback (1969-1975)**: The final generation was a two-door fastback coupé. Each generation brought its own unique features and updates, making the Sunbeam Alpine a beloved classic among car enthusiasts. 

**

Trim Levels 

The Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) didn't have distinct trim levels like modern cars. Instead, it was offered as a single model with various optional extras. Some of the notable features and options included: - 

**High-quality leather and polished wood trim**: The interior was designed to balance functionality with luxury. - **Adjustable seats**: The seats were shaped to provide good individual support and were adjustable for reach, height, and rake. - 

**Optional overdrive unit**: From 1954, an overdrive unit became a standard feature. - 

**Detachable racing screen**: The curved single-pane screen with side extensions could be replaced with a racing screen of curved transparent plastic. - 

**Provision for a radio panel and heater installation**: These were available as factory-fitted extras. The focus was on providing a sporty and luxurious driving experience rather than offering multiple trim levels. 

***** 

Production Total: 1,582

*****

Price New: The **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** was priced at around **£1,200-£1,500** when new in the UK [UPDATED 2025]](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/sunbeam/alpine-%281953---1955%29). This positioned it as a premium British roadster, competing with models like the **Jaguar XK120** and **Austin-Healey 100**. 

*****

Sales: The **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** had a **limited sales success**, particularly in the UK. While it was a stylish and well-built roadster, it faced challenges due to its **high price** compared to rivals like the **Triumph TR2** Review | Honest John - Honest John Classics](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/sunbeam/alpine-1953/). 

**Sales Performance & Market Impact**

- **Designed for the U.S. Market**: Rootes Group aimed the Alpine at **American buyers**, where demand for British sports cars was strong.

- **High Price**: The Alpine was more expensive than competitors, limiting its appeal in the UK Review | Honest John - Honest John Classics](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/sunbeam/alpine-1953/).

- **Performance Limitations**: Despite its **2.3L engine**, it was considered **underpowered** compared to rivals Review | Honest John - Honest John Classics](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/sunbeam/alpine-1953/).

- **Motorsport Success**: The Alpine had **rallying achievements**, including a **Monte Carlo Rally win in 1955**, but this did not translate into strong sales.

- **Short Production Run**: Only **1,582 units** were built before the model was discontinued.

While it wasn’t a major commercial success, the **Mk I Alpine** remains a **rare and collectible classic** today. 

*****

Historical Pricing Comparisons: Here’s a look at the **historical pricing** of the **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** in the UK:

- **Lowest recorded sale**: **£3,680**.

- **Median price**: **£45,592**.

- **Highest recorded sale**: **£141,206**.

Prices have steadily increased, reflecting the **Alpine’s desirability** as a classic British roadster [UPDATED 2025]](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/sunbeam/alpine-%281953---1955%29). 

***** 

Main Rivals

The Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55) faced competition from several British sports cars, each offering different levels of performance and pricing:

**Main Rivals & Comparisons**

| **Car Model**                         | **Price New (1953-55)** | **Engine** | **Power Output** | **Top Speed** |

|----------------------                      |----------------------|------------|------------------|--------------|

| **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I**        | £1,200-£1,500 | 2.3L Inline-4 | ~80 hp | ~100 mph |

| **Jaguar XK120**                   | ~£1,500-£1,800 | 3.4L Inline-6 | ~160 hp | ~120 mph |

| **Austin-Healey 100**            | ~£1,100-£1,300 | 2.7L Inline-4 | ~90 hp | ~110 mph |

| **Triumph TR2**                     | ~£900-£1,100 | 2.0L Inline-4 | ~90 hp | ~105 mph |

| **MG TF 1500**                     | ~£800-£1,000 | 1.5L Inline-4 | ~63 hp | ~85 mph |

*****

Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy: The **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** was marketed as a **stylish British roadster**, designed to compete with rivals like the **Jaguar XK120** and **Austin-Healey 100**. Rootes Group emphasized its **sporting pedigree**, particularly its success in **rally racing**.

**Marketing Strategy**

- **Performance & Elegance**: Advertisements highlighted the Alpine’s **sleek design** and **racing heritage**.

- **Luxury Appeal**: Positioned as a **premium roadster**, with a refined interior and advanced engineering.

- **Motorsport Connection**: Rootes leveraged the Alpine’s **Monte Carlo Rally success** to boost its reputation.

- **Taglines & Imagery**: Ads often featured phrases like _“The Queen of the Sportscars”_ and showcased the Alpine in **dynamic driving scenes**.

You can explore more details on the **Sunbeam Alpine’s history** [here](https://www.gracesguide.co.uk/Sunbeam:_Alpine) and read about its marketing approach [here](https://motor-car.net/sunbeam/item/10262-alpine-mark-i-iii-1953-55). 

*****

Rarity & Collector Appeal: The **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** is a **rare and highly collectible** British roadster, prized for its **styling, motorsport heritage, and limited production numbers**.

### **Rarity & Collector Appeal**

- **Limited Production**: Only **1,582 units** were built, making it a rare find today.

- **Motorsport Pedigree**: The Alpine gained recognition through its **Monte Carlo Rally success**.

- **Increasing Value**: Prices have steadily risen, with well-preserved examples fetching over **£100,000** [UPDATED 2025]](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/sunbeam/alpine-%281953---1955%29).

- **Celebrity Connection**: Famously featured in Alfred Hitchcock’s _To Catch a Thief_ (1955), adding to its allure.

- **Cult Following**: Enthusiasts appreciate its **elegant design and historical significance**.

*****

Recorded in UK 2025

As of **2025**, there are approximately **5 licensed** **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** models and **1 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)** in the UK. These numbers highlight the rarity of this classic British roadster, making it a prized collector’s item. 

*****

Target Age Group: The **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** was primarily targeted at **driving enthusiasts and sports car lovers** in the **1950s**. Rootes Group aimed to attract buyers who wanted a **stylish British roadster** with **racing pedigree**, offering a blend of elegance and performance.

**Influence of Target Age Group**

- **Motorsport Enthusiasts**: The Alpine’s **rally success** made it appealing to those interested in competitive driving.

- **Young Professionals**: Positioned as a **premium roadster**, it attracted buyers in their **30s and 40s** looking for a refined yet sporty vehicle.

- **Luxury & Performance Seekers**: Unlike budget-friendly rivals, the Alpine was marketed as a **high-end alternative** to cars like the **Triumph TR2**.

Despite its appeal, the Alpine faced competition from **Jaguar, Austin-Healey, and Triumph**, but it remains a **cult classic** among collectors today. 

You can explore more details on the **Sunbeam Alpine’s history** [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunbeam_Alpine) and read about its rarity [here](https://gaukmotors.co.uk/motorpedia/car-make/sunbeam/alpine-19531975).

*****

Influence of Target Age Group: The **target age group** for the **Sunbeam Alpine Mk I (1953-55)** influenced its design, marketing, and overall appeal. Rootes Group aimed to attract **driving enthusiasts and young professionals**, shaping the Alpine into a **stylish British roadster** with a focus on **performance and elegance**.

**Influence of Target Age Group**

- **Motorsport Enthusiasts**: The Alpine’s **rally success** made it appealing to those interested in competitive driving.

- **Young Professionals**: Positioned as a **premium roadster**, it attracted buyers in their **30s and 40s** looking for a refined yet sporty vehicle - Motor Car History](https://motor-car.net/sunbeam/item/10262-alpine-mark-i-iii-1953-55).

- **Luxury & Performance Seekers**: Unlike budget-friendly rivals, the Alpine was marketed as a **high-end alternative** to cars like the **Triumph TR2**.

Despite its appeal, the Alpine faced competition from **Jaguar, Austin-Healey, and Triumph**, but it remains a **cult classic** among collectors today. 

*****

Engines 

The Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) was equipped with a **2.3-litre four-cylinder engine** sourced from the Humber Hawk. This engine had a displacement of **2267 cc** and featured a raised compression ratio. It produced around **80 horsepower** in the 1954-1955 models. 

***** 

Performance 

The Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) was designed with a sporty feel in mind, but its performance was somewhat limited by the standards of the time. 

Here are some key performance aspects: - **Engine Power**: The 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine produced around 80 horsepower. - **Acceleration**: The Alpine's acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 13 seconds. - **Top Speed**: The top speed was around 100 mph (160 km/h)¹. - **Handling**: The car featured stiffer springs up front and more positive steering, which made it feel sportier but also somewhat "podgy" to drive. - **Rally Success**: Despite its modest performance, the Alpine achieved notable success in rallying, including an outright win at the 1955 Monte Carlo Rally. Overall, while the Sunbeam Alpine may not have been the fastest car of its era, it offered a balanced combination of style, handling, and rallying pedigree. 

***** 

Spares 

Here are some places where you can find spares for your Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) in the UK and Ireland: 

1. **Sunbeam Spares Co**: They offer new and used parts, literature, restoration, and tuning for classic Sunbeam Alpine and Tiger models. They are located at Unit 23 Weymeadows Business Park, Chertsey Road, Shepperton TW17 9NS. 

2. **Sunbeam Supreme**: Specialists in Sunbeam Alpines and Tigers, they offer a wide range of original and remanufactured parts. They are based in Leicester and can ship parts across the UK, Europe, and worldwide. 

3. **Sunbeam Alpine Tiger Spares**: They provide quality new spares for Sunbeam Alpine, Rapier, and Tiger models. They also offer restoration and upgrade services. 

4. **eBay**: You can find various parts for the Sunbeam Alpine on eBay. 

***** 

Specialists 

Finding specialized garage services for a classic car like the Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) can be a bit challenging, but there are a few options in Northern Ireland that might be able to help: 

1. **Classic Car Services NI**: They offer restoration and maintenance services for classic cars. They are located in Belfast and have experience with various classic models. 

2. **Charles Hurst Specialist Cars**: Based in Belfast, they provide services for classic and vintage cars, including maintenance, repairs, and restorations. 

3. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Located in Lisburn, they offer a range of services for classic cars, including mechanical repairs and restorations. It's always a good idea to contact these garages directly to discuss your specific needs and ensure they have experience with the Sunbeam Alpine. 

***** 

Racing 

The Sunbeam Alpine (1953-1955) did compete in races, particularly in rally events. Here are some notable instances: 

1. **Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes)**: The Sunbeam Alpine had its first competitive outing in the July 1953 Coupe des Alpes. The new car won the Coupe des Dames (Sheila van Damm) and, without losing any marks, four Coupes des Alpes driven by Stirling Moss, John Fitch, G. Murray-Frame, and Sheila van Damm. 

2. **Monte Carlo Rally**: The Alpine achieved notable success in the 1955 Monte Carlo Rally, where it secured an outright win. 

*****