Sunbeam Alpine (1959-68)

The **Sunbeam Alpine (1959-1968)**, while a charming classic, does have some common faults that owners and enthusiasts should be aware of:

1. **Rust Issues**: Rust is a common problem, especially around the headlamps, the base of the windscreen, and the back of the engine bay under the master cylinders.
2. **Suspension**: The suspension is relatively simple, but Series 1-3 cars require regular kingpin greasing. Later models use ball-joints that still need checking.
3. **Oil Pressure**: It's important to check the oil pressures. At 2000rpm, it should be 50psi for 1.5/1.6 engines and 40psi for the 1.7.
4. **Door Hinges**: The door hinges can wear out, causing the doors to drop.
5. **Engine and Gearbox**: Look out for milky oil (indicating water ingress) and blue smoke (indicating worn bores, rings, or tappets).

Despite these issues, the Sunbeam Alpine remains a beloved classic for its looks and driving experience.
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Generations
The **Sunbeam Alpine** produced between 1959 and 1968 went through **five generations**, known as Series I to Series V. Here's a brief overview of what each series offered:

1. **Series I (1959-1960)**:
- **Engine**: 1.5L inline-four engine producing 78 hp.
- **Features**: Stylish design, comfortable interior, and a focus on appealing to the US market.

2. **Series II (1960-1963)**:
- **Engine**: Upgraded to a 1.6L inline-four engine with 80 hp.
- **Features**: Improved performance and minor styling updates.

3. **Series III (1963-1964)**:
- **Engine**: Same 1.6L engine as Series II.
- **Features**: Introduction of a GT version with a removable hardtop and more luxurious interior.

4. **Series IV (1964-1965)**:
- **Engine**: Continued with the 1.6L engine.
- **Features**: Redesigned front end, improved suspension, and better handling.

5. **Series V (1965-1968)**:
- **Engine**: Upgraded to a 1.7L inline-four engine producing 92 hp.
- **Features**: Enhanced performance, improved reliability, and minor cosmetic changes.

Each series brought incremental improvements in performance, styling, and comfort, making the Sunbeam Alpine a beloved classic among enthusiasts.
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Trim Levels
The **Sunbeam Alpine (1959-1968)** offered several trim levels and variations throughout its production run. Here are the main ones:

1. **Standard Roadster**: This was the base model available across all series, featuring a soft-top convertible design.
2. **GT (Grand Touring)**: Introduced with the Series III, the GT version came with a detachable hardtop, an enlarged rear seat, and higher levels of interior equipment.
3. **Harrington Le Mans**: A special edition based on the Series II, featuring a fastback hardtop and modifications for racing.

Each trim level offered unique features and enhancements, catering to different preferences and driving experiences.
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Engines
The **Sunbeam Alpine (1959-1968)** had several engine options across its different series:

1. **Series I (1959-1960)**:
- **Engine**: 1.5L inline-four engine producing 78 hp.

2. **Series II (1960-1963)**:
- **Engine**: Upgraded to a 1.6L inline-four engine with 80 hp.

3. **Series III (1963-1964)**:
- **Engine**: Continued with the 1.6L engine, but with minor tuning adjustments.

4. **Series IV (1964-1965)**:
- **Engine**: Same 1.6L engine as Series III.

5. **Series V (1965-1968)**:
- **Engine**: Upgraded to a 1.7L inline-four engine producing 92 hp.

These engines provided a range of performance improvements and reliability enhancements over the years. *****

Performance
The **Sunbeam Alpine Series V (1965-1968)** offered respectable performance for its time. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Top Speed**: Approximately 99.5 mph (160.1 km/h).
- **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in about 13.6 seconds.
- **Fuel Consumption**: Around 31.4 miles per imperial gallon (9.0 L/100 km; 26.1 mpg US).

These figures made the Alpine a competitive and enjoyable classic roadster.
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Spares
There are several places in the UK and Ireland where you can find spare parts for your **Sunbeam Alpine (1959-1968)**:

1. **[Sunbeam Car Parts](https://sunbeamcarparts.co.uk/)**:
- **Location**: Unit 113 Harbour Road, Lydney GL15 4EJ
- **Phone**: 01594 368380
- **Services**: Quality spare parts for Sunbeam Alpine, Rapier, and Tiger, along with restoration and upgrade services.

2. **[MEV Spares](https://www.mevspares.co.uk/Sunbeam-Alpine-and-Tiger-car-parts/)**:
- **Location**: Doncaster, UK
- **Services**: Offers a wide range of parts including fuel, clutch, brakes, engine, gearbox, electrics, and body seals.

3. **[Sunbeam Supreme](https://www.sunbeamsupreme.co.uk/)**:
- **Services**: Specialists in Sunbeam Alpines and Tigers for over 30 years, providing original and remanufactured parts, as well as an extensive stock of used parts.

These suppliers should have what you need to keep your classic Sunbeam Alpine in top condition.
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Specialists
Yes, there are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can help with your **Sunbeam Alpine (1959-1968)**:

1. **[Forest Custom and Classics](https://www.magnetomagazine.com/articles/1959-1968-sunbeam-alpine-and-tiger-buying-guide-from-magneto/)**:
- **Location**: Lisburn, Northern Ireland
- **Services**: Specializes in classic car restoration and maintenance, including Sunbeam Alpines.

2. **[Classic Car Services](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/buyers-guide/sunbeam/alpine-%281959---1968%29)**:
- **Location**: Belfast, Northern Ireland
- **Services**: Offers a range of services for classic cars, including mechanical repairs, bodywork, and parts sourcing.

These garages should be able to provide the expertise and care needed to keep your Sunbeam Alpine in top condition.
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Racing
The **Sunbeam Alpine (1959-1968)** did compete in various racing and rally events. Here are some highlights:

1. **Rallying**: The Alpine was used in rallying across Britain, continental Europe, the United States, and Canada. It gained a reputation for its reliability and performance in these challenging events.

2. **Circuit Racing**: The Alpine also participated in circuit racing, including events like the **Sebring 12 Hours** and the **Le Mans 24 Hours**⁴. The Harrington Le Mans version was specifically developed for endurance racing.

3. **Successes**: The Alpine achieved notable successes in these competitions, showcasing its capabilities and solidifying its place in motorsport history.

The Sunbeam Alpine's racing pedigree adds to its allure as a classic sports car.

The **Sunbeam Alpine** had a notable presence in rallying during its production years, achieving several successes:

1. **Alpine Rally**: The Sunbeam Alpine was named after its success in the Alpine Rally. It performed well in this challenging event, showcasing its reliability and handling.

2. **Coupe des Alpes**: The Alpine won the Coupe des Alpes multiple times, driven by renowned drivers like Stirling Moss and Sheila van Damm.

3. **Monte Carlo Rally**: The Alpine also competed in the Monte Carlo Rally, one of the most prestigious events in the rallying calendar.

4. **Other European Rallies**: The Alpine participated in various other European rallies, further establishing its reputation as a capable and competitive rally car.

Stirling Moss had a significant involvement with the Sunbeam Alpine, particularly in rallying events. Here are some highlights:

1. **Alpine Rally**: Moss achieved remarkable success in the Alpine Rally, earning a hat-trick of penalty-free runs. This made him one of only three drivers to earn a Coupe des Alpes (Gold Cup).

2. **Monte Carlo Rally**: Moss competed in the Monte Carlo Rally, finishing second in his first attempt in 1952. His participation in this prestigious event added to his growing reputation as an all-rounder.

3. **Jabbeke Speed Trials**: Moss drove a prototype Sunbeam Alpine in the Jabbeke Speed Trials, showcasing the car's performance capabilities.

4. **Influence on the Alpine Name**: The success of Moss and other drivers in the Alpine Rally led to the naming of the Sunbeam Alpine.

Stirling Moss's involvement with the Sunbeam Alpine not only highlighted his versatility as a driver but also contributed to the car's legacy in motorsport history.
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