Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe (1967-72)

Overview: The Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe was significant to the Sunbeam brand as it represented the company's effort to create a sportier, more stylish version of the Hillman Imp. It combined the sleek fastback design of the Imp Californian with the **performance-oriented Imp Sport engine**, making it one of the most desirable models in the Imp lineup. The Stiletto helped reinforce Sunbeam’s reputation for producing affordable yet sporty cars, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted a compact coupe with a bit of flair. However, despite its appeal, the Stiletto was discontinued in 1972, marking the end of an era for Sunbeam’s small performance cars.

Production Total: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** had a total production run of **10,000 units** between **1967 and 1972**. It remains a rare and sought-after classic today!

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 Stiletto, produced between 1967 and 1972, is a classic car with a unique charm. However, like many classic cars, it has its share of common faults: 

1. **Cooling System Issues**: The rear-engine layout and aluminum block can lead to overheating problems if the cooling system isn't well-maintained. 

2. **Electrical Problems**: The electrical system, particularly the ignition coil, can be prone to faults. 

3. **Rust**: Rust can be a significant issue, especially in the body panels and undercarriage. 

4. **Transmission**: The 4-speed manual transmission can sometimes be problematic, with issues related to synchromesh. 5. **Brakes**: The disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear may require frequent maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Despite these issues, the Sunbeam Stiletto remains a beloved classic for many enthusiasts.

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Generations/Trim Levels

The Sunbeam Stiletto, produced between 1967 and 1972, did not have multiple generations. It was essentially a single model variant of the Hillman Imp, with a sporty coupe design. 

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Trim Levels 

The Sunbeam Stiletto, produced between 1967 and 1972, was primarily offered in a single trim level. This trim included several distinctive features: 

- **Sporty Coupe Design**: Based on the Hillman Imp Californian coupe shell. 

- **Sunbeam Imp Sport Engine**: A 50bhp engine for enhanced performance. 

- **Four-Headlamp Nose**: A unique design element that set it apart from other models. 

- **Vinyl Roof**: Added a touch of elegance to the exterior. 

- **Slatted Engine Lid**: Improved cooling and added to the sporty look. 

- **Special Facia Style**: A smart and stylish dashboard. 

- **Better Trim and Seating**: Enhanced interior comfort and aesthetics. 

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Price New: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** was priced at **£1,750** when new in the UK. This made it a relatively affordable yet stylish and sporty option for buyers in the late 1960s and early 1970s. 

Sales: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** was a stylish and sporty offering from the **Rootes Group**, but it struggled to match the sales success of its rival, the **Mini Cooper**. While it had a loyal following and was praised for its **rear-engine layout, twin-carburetor setup, and fastback styling**, it did not achieve the same widespread popularity. The Mini Cooper dominated the market, benefiting from its **front-wheel-drive handling and motorsport success**, which helped boost its appeal. Despite this, the Stiletto remains a **cult classic** among enthusiasts today, appreciated for its unique design and driving experience.

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Historical Pricing Comparisons:

Here’s a look at the historical pricing of the **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe**:

- **Original Price (1967-72)**: Around **£1,750**.

- **Lowest Recorded Sale Price**: **£2,025**.

- **Median Price (Since 2020)**: **£9,900**.

- **Highest Recorded Sale Price**: **£19,244**.

Prices have varied over time, with well-preserved examples fetching higher values in today’s classic car market. Would you like insights on how these prices compare to similar vehicles?

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Rivals: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** had several rivals in the late 1960s and early 1970s, each with its own pricing:

- **Mini Cooper (Mk1, 1961-1971)** – Around **£800-£1,200**, depending on the model and trim.

- **Hillman Imp Sport (1966-1976)** – Around **£850-£1,000**, making it a direct competitor to the Stiletto.

- **Ford Escort Mexico (1970-1974)** – Around **£1,150**, offering a sportier alternative.

- **MG Midget (Mk3, 1966-1979)** – Around **£900-£1,100**, a small roadster alternative.

The Stiletto was priced at **£1,750**, making it more expensive than some of its rivals but offering a unique fastback design and twin-carb performance. Would you like a comparison of their performance and features?

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Recorded in UK 2025

As of **2025**, there are approximately **95 licensed** **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupes** and **75 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)** in the UK. These numbers reflect the continued rarity of the model, making it a sought-after classic among enthusiasts. Would you like insights on how these figures compare to previous years?

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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** was marketed as a stylish and sporty alternative to conventional small cars, emphasizing its **fastback design, twin-carburetor engine, and luxurious interior**. Advertisements often highlighted its **performance-oriented features**, such as the **rear-engine layout**, **quad headlights**, and **vinyl roof**, making it stand out from competitors like the Mini Cooper.

One notable marketing approach was the tagline: _“For men whose wives think they’ve given up sports cars”_, which positioned the Stiletto as a practical yet exciting choice. The ads also emphasized its **reclining front seats, rally-style instrumentation, and servo-assisted brakes**, appealing to drivers who wanted a mix of comfort and performance.

The **Rootes Group** leveraged motorsport success to enhance the Stiletto’s appeal, associating it with the **Hillman Imp’s rally heritage**. However, despite its unique styling and features, the Stiletto struggled against the dominance of the Mini Cooper in the UK market.

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Rarity & Collector Appeal: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** is considered a **rare and desirable classic**, with only a **small number remaining** on UK roads today. Its **fastback styling, twin-carb engine, and rally-inspired features** make it a sought-after collector’s item. 

In recent years, prices have **steadily increased**, with well-preserved examples fetching between **£6,800 and £19,244**. Enthusiasts appreciate its **unique design and connection to the Hillman Imp**, making it a prized addition to classic car collections.

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Target Age Group: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** was primarily targeted at **young professionals and driving enthusiasts** in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It appealed to those who wanted a **sporty yet practical** small car with a **fastback design**, **twin-carburetor engine**, and **stylish interior**. 

Its marketing positioned it as a **fun, affordable alternative** to traditional sports cars, making it popular among **drivers in their 20s and 30s** who sought a blend of performance and everyday usability. Today, it remains a **cult classic**, attracting collectors and enthusiasts of all ages who appreciate its unique design and rarity.

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Influence of target Age Group: The **target age group** for the **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe**—primarily **young professionals and driving enthusiasts**—played a significant role in shaping its design and marketing. Rootes Group aimed to attract buyers who wanted a **sporty yet practical** small car, blending **performance, style, and affordability**.

This demographic influenced:

- **Styling**: The **fastback design, quad headlights, and vinyl roof** gave the Stiletto a more dynamic, youthful appeal.

- **Performance Features**: The **twin-carburetor engine** and **sporty suspension** catered to drivers seeking excitement without the cost of a full sports car.

- **Marketing Strategy**: Advertisements emphasized **fun, individuality, and practicality**, positioning the Stiletto as a car for those who wanted something different from the mainstream Mini Cooper.

Despite its appeal, the Stiletto struggled against the Mini’s dominance, but it remains a **cult classic** among enthusiasts today. Would you like insights on how its legacy compares to similar cars of the era?

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Parts Bin Engineering: The **Sunbeam Stiletto Coupe** (1967-72) shared several components with other vehicles, particularly within the **Rootes Group** lineup. Some of its key borrowed parts included:

- **Engine & Transmission**: The Stiletto used the **875cc Imp Sport engine**, which was also found in the **Hillman Imp Sport**.

- **Body Panels**: Many exterior panels were interchangeable with the **Hillman Imp Californian**, including the **fastback roofline**.

- **Suspension & Brakes**: The suspension setup was largely derived from the **Hillman Imp**, featuring **independent rear suspension**.

- **Interior Components**: The dashboard and instrumentation were similar to those used in other **Imp-based models**, with minor styling differences.

- **Lighting & Trim**: Some trim pieces and lighting elements were shared with other **Rootes Group** vehicles.

While the Stiletto had its own distinct styling and branding, it relied heavily on **Hillman Imp components**, making it easier to maintain and restore today. 

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Engines 

The Sunbeam Stiletto, produced between 1967 and 1972, was equipped with a single engine option: - **875cc Inline-Four Engine**: This engine produced between 52-55 horsepower and featured twin Stromberg 125CD carburetors, a new cylinder head with improved gas flow, larger inlet valves, a higher lift cam, stronger pistons, and an oil cooler. 

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Performance 

The Sunbeam Stiletto, produced between 1967 and 1972, offered the following performance specifications: - **0-60 mph Acceleration**: 15.9 seconds. - **Top Speed**: Approximately 90 mph (145 km/h). - **Engine Power**: 51-55 bhp. - **Torque**: 52 lb/ft. 

These specs made the Stiletto a fun and sporty car for its time. 

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Spares 

Here are some places where you can find spare parts for a Sunbeam Stiletto in the UK and Ireland: 

1. **Sunbeam Spares Co**: They offer new and used parts, literature, restoration, and tuning for classic Sunbeam models. Located in Shepperton, England. 

2. **Sunbeam Alpine, Rapier, Tiger Spares And Restoration**: They provide quality spare parts and restoration services. Located in Lydney, England. 

3. **Sunbeam Supreme**: Specializes in parts for Sunbeam Alpines and Tigers, but they may have parts for the Stiletto as well. Located in Leicester, England. 

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Specialists 

Finding specialized garage services for a classic car like the Sunbeam Stiletto in Northern Ireland can be a bit challenging, but here are a few options you might consider: 

1. **Classic Car Services NI**: They offer restoration and maintenance services for classic cars and might be able to help with your Sunbeam Stiletto. 

2. **Charles Hurst Specialist Cars**: Located in Belfast, they provide services for a range of classic and specialist cars. 

3. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Based in Bangor, they offer classic car restoration and maintenance services. It's always a good idea to contact these garages directly to confirm they can work on your specific model. 

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Racing 

The Sunbeam Stiletto did have a presence in motorsport, particularly in rallying and hill climbs. It was homologated for Group 2 racing by the FIA in 1967. The car's lightweight design and rear-engine layout made it competitive in these events. While it wasn't as famous or successful as some other racing cars of its era, the Stiletto did achieve some notable successes in club-level motorsport and local rallies. Its performance and handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoyed modifying and racing it. 

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