I first got into Rootes Group Cars in the early 1980's, my first car being a Singer Gazelle. I never had it on the road but used to drive it around the family farm. My brother, 4 yrs my junior, wouldn't rest until he had one too... His was a Hillman Superminx Automatic which was a snip @ £ 25.00 compared to mine at a somewhat extortionate £ 80.00. He lost control of his and crashed through a hedge and from then on, Reverse gear wouldn't work. It was a real ball-ache when he got into a tight spot as we'd all have to get out and push so he could turn round.
What's the point of all this? I hear you say. Well, here's the point; Even in the early 80's, many of these cars were MOT failures due to corrosion and that's when they were only around 20 years old! Now twice that time has passed since the early 80's making these cars 60 years old on more now. I remember back in the 80's going to see a Sunbeam Alpine, a Humber Sceptre and a Sunbeam Rapier Convertible and they were all rotten!
Of course, a sunny South African Climate has helped preserve the Sunbeam Rapier series 3 that we offer here. Overall, she has survived well with no real panel replacement needed. She still requires a little body tidying as can be seen in the photos. There is some re-chroming required, the front grilles in particular. Paint is flaking off the roof but it is only surface rust beneath. Both front wings quite smart, doors ok. Scuttle area & jambs ok.
The Series 3 Rapier was endowed with features not seen on previous models. These included an aluminium cylinder head on it's 1494cc engine and also a walnut dashboard in it's interior. Our example here also features the optional Laycock Overdrive.
As you can see, the interior is quite neat with roof lining and upholstery all quite passable in condition. Walnut dash is still smart.
Since the car was imported a couple of years ago, she's been kept undercover and in that time we have not got round to even attempting to start the engine.
Underneath she is very sound as the photos demonstrate. Sill areas pretty tidy too with no gaping holes to contend with. In fact the car could soon be in daily use with fairly gentle re-commissioning and then treat it as a running restoration.
Still in it's original Rootes paint of Pippin Red over Pearl Grey. Comes with Nova document stating all duties & taxes have been accounted for. This is your first step towards uk registration. You are likely to need a dating letter from a Sunbeam Owners Club to satisfy the DVLA in terms of attaining an age related registration. The club will de-code the VIN Tag to achieve this.
There is no substitute for seeing the vehicle in the flesh so viewing is recommended. To make an appointment call 01723 890060 Office Hours 01723 890271 Evenings Or Mobile (preferred) at any sensible hour 07889 286559. It's Steve. Delivery can be arranged at "Mate's Rates." More photos available via WhatsApp. Thank you for reading.
NB. Rear Bumper IS Included! Just got removed for shipping so car would fit in container with other vehicles.
Please note: (particularly for people purchasing at distance without viewing) a £500 deposit will be required within 24hrs from fall of the hammer. If you win this car you must commit to it or you will be reported to eBay and excluded from any of my future deals and auctions.
Footnote: Tried to sell this in the summer for substantially more money. Now standing sheeted down outside. Now on auction at a low start price and No Reserve as I'm uncomfortable with her standing out this winter and would prefer someone to give her a better home.
Unfortunately the keys either didn't make it from SA or have been misplaced in the move.