Lot 226 - 1962 Sunbeam Alpine S2
| Lot Number | 226 |
| Registration | SFF 119 |
| Chassis Number | B9118568HR0 |
| Odometer reading | 97,627 miles |
| Estimate | £10,500 - £14,500 |
The Sunbeam Alpine is a sporty two-seat open car launched in 1953 and was the first vehicle from Sunbeam-Talbot to bear the Sunbeam name alone since the 1935 takeover of Sunbeam and Talbot by the Rootes Group. Ken Howes and Jeff Crompton were tasked with doing a complete redesign of the Alpine in 1956 to produce a dedicated sports car aimed principally at the US market. Ken Howes contributed some 80% of the overall design work and, throughout its production cycle, the Alpine was manufactured in four subsequent revisions through to 1968. Production stopped shortly after the Chrysler takeover of the Rootes Group.
This particular S2 example has mostly been kept in a heated and dehumidified garage by its fastidious owner; a file dating back to 1993 including photographs and receipts totalling over £5,000 certainly testify to this being his pride and joy. Presented in gleaming Pastel Blue, the car benefits from a recent full repaint which included new seals and machine polishing. With an Old English White hardtop; also recently painted, together with new headlining and a black foldaway hood, this Alpine looks just as good with the top down or with the hardtop in place.
The 1600cc engine is now fitted with a 123 electronic ignition system and we are told, starts on the button with good oil pressure. A new head gasket was fitted this year and twin carburettors have been replaced with a twin choke Webber which has been fitted with a manual choke. 18 months ago, a good quality stainless-steel exhaust was also fitted and in 2014 the radiator was professionally refurbished with a double core. The four-speed manual gearbox had a refurbished differential two years ago and, just this year, new brake shoes and cylinders were fitted coupled to the clutch master and slave cylinders which were fitted in 2014. Also in 2014, the car was upgraded with polybushes and new wire wheels and tyres. We are told all switches and dials work exactly as they should and the heater matrix was replaced recently. With significant recent expenditure, this lovely Alpine represents a thoroughly useable example and viewing is certainly recommended.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.