Sunbeam Alpine (1953-55)

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.
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Generations
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.
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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 feature².
- **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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Racing
Yes, 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.
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