Sunbeam

Launched in March 1953, the Sunbeam Alpine was derived from the Sunbeam-Talbot 90 saloon but transformed into an elegant two-seat sports roadster. The model earned its name following Sunbeam's successes in the Alpine Rally and immediately proved its capabilities by winning several class victories in the 1953 Coupe des Alpes. Powered by a 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine with increased compression, it combined lively performance with sporting character, while overdrive became standard from 1954. Hand-built by Thrupp & Maberly in London, the Alpine remained in production until 1955, with no Mark II ever being produced. Just 1,582 units were built, most of them exported to North America.

The completely redesigned Sunbeam Alpine returned in 1959 as a modern sports roadster, sharing components with other Rootes models but offering front disc brakes, wind-up windows and lively handling. The Series II of 1960 gained a larger 1.6-litre engine, while the rare Series III of 1963 introduced numerous improvements that anticipated later versions. The Series IV followed in 1964 with cleaner styling and mechanical refinements. The final Series V, launched in 1965, received a new 1.7-litre engine producing 93 bhp. Production ended in 1968 after approximately 70,000 cars had been built, shortly after Chrysler took over the Rootes Group.