SUNBEAM RAPIER 1959 - History: Unveiled at the London Motor...
SUNBEAM RAPIER 1959 - History:
Unveiled at the London Motor Show in October 1955, the Sunbeam Rapier marked the debut of the new “Audax” lineup developed by the Rootes Group. Its design, inspired by Raymond Loewy’s creations for Studebaker, gave it an elegant and decidedly modern silhouette, characterized by extensive glass area, a two-tone body, and a particularly refined finish.
Positioned as an elegant four-seat coupe designed for grand touring, the Rapier was powered by a 1,390 cm³ four-cylinder engine producing approximately 62 ch, mated to a manual transmission. The higher-trim versions featured the Laycock overdrive from Normanville, allowing for a smoother and more fuel-efficient drive on the highway.
With only 7,477 units produced between 1955 and 1958, the Series I is now the rarest version of the first-generation Rapier. Export models, equipped with left-hand drive, represent a small portion of this production run and are particularly sought after.
Description:
The vehicle shown here is a Sunbeam Rapier Series II.
The car retains its original manufacturer’s plate and its cold-stamped chassis number.
The manufacturer’s plate bears the following markings: A3811287 – OD LCX
This coding corresponds to a Rapier intended for export, equipped with left-hand drive, a low-compression engine adapted for foreign markets, and the Laycock overdrive from Normanville—a feature particularly prized on this model.
The body provides a good foundation for restoration and retains a beautiful overall sense of authenticity. The various body panels appear to fit together well, and the alignment of the doors and windows is generally satisfactory.
The paint is original and has a uniform patina. Various defects related to the vehicle’s age are visible, including some normal wear-and-tear scratches, paint chips, dents, old touch-ups, and traces of surface oxidation on certain metal parts.
There are spots of corrosion on the body, requiring localized restoration. The chrome trim, moldings, and exterior accessories are all present and provide a good foundation for restoration.
The interior has retained its authentic character and appears largely true to its original configuration.
The upholstery is complete but shows some tears and signs of wear. The door panels, dashboard, instruments, and various interior features are all present. A thorough cleaning and partial restoration will restore it to its full glory.
The interior trim, controls, and accessories provide an excellent foundation for preservation or restoration. The convertible top is torn.
The engine compartment is complete and retains its original configuration, with no visible major modifications.
After a long period of inactivity, a complete overhaul will be necessary before any use. The engine compartment nevertheless provides an excellent foundation for restoration.
Specifications:
Make: Sunbeam
Model: Rapier Series II
Manufacturer: Rootes Group
Date of First Registration: 10/01/1959
Body Type: Convertible
Engine: Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement: 1,390 cm³
Power: approximately 62 ch
Transmission: Manual with overdrive
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Steering: Left-hand drive (LHD)
Seating capacity: 4
Chassis number: A3811287 OD LCX
Mileage: 31,833 miles (not guaranteed)
Keys: Yes
Registration documents: None. An old provisional application for a Belgian registration card and an old technical inspection report are included in the file.
Condition:
The engine has not been started, and no test drive has been performed.
Sold as-is, considered inoperable, without a technical inspection.
Sold as-is, considered inoperable, without a technical inspection, for restoration or for parts
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
SUNBEAM RAPIER 1959 - History:
Unveiled at the London Motor Show in October 1955, the Sunbeam Rapier marked the debut of the new “Audax” lineup developed by the Rootes Group. Its design, inspired by Raymond Loewy’s creations for Studebaker, gave it an elegant and decidedly modern silhouette, characterized by extensive glass area, a two-tone body, and a particularly refined finish.
Positioned as an elegant four-seat coupe designed for grand touring, the Rapier was powered by a 1,390 cm³ four-cylinder engine producing approximately 62 ch, mated to a manual transmission. The higher-trim versions featured the Laycock overdrive from Normanville, allowing for a smoother and more fuel-efficient drive on the highway.
With only 7,477 units produced between 1955 and 1958, the Series I is now the rarest version of the first-generation Rapier. Export models, equipped with left-hand drive, represent a small portion of this production run and are particularly sought after.
Description:
The vehicle shown here is a Sunbeam Rapier Series II.
The car retains its original manufacturer’s plate and its cold-stamped chassis number.
The manufacturer’s plate bears the following markings: A3811287 – OD LCX
This coding corresponds to a Rapier intended for export, equipped with left-hand drive, a low-compression engine adapted for foreign markets, and the Laycock overdrive from Normanville—a feature particularly prized on this model.
The body provides a good foundation for restoration and retains a beautiful overall sense of authenticity. The various body panels appear to fit together well, and the alignment of the doors and windows is generally satisfactory.
The paint is original and has a uniform patina. Various defects related to the vehicle’s age are visible, including some normal wear-and-tear scratches, paint chips, dents, old touch-ups, and traces of surface oxidation on certain metal parts.
There are spots of corrosion on the body, requiring localized restoration. The chrome trim, moldings, and exterior accessories are all present and provide a good foundation for restoration.
The interior has retained its authentic character and appears largely true to its original configuration.
The upholstery is complete but shows some tears and signs of wear. The door panels, dashboard, instruments, and various interior features are all present. A thorough cleaning and partial restoration will restore it to its full glory.
The interior trim, controls, and accessories provide an excellent foundation for preservation or restoration. The convertible top is torn.
The engine compartment is complete and retains its original configuration, with no visible major modifications.
After a long period of inactivity, a complete overhaul will be necessary before any use. The engine compartment nevertheless provides an excellent foundation for restoration.
Specifications:
Make: Sunbeam
Model: Rapier Series II
Manufacturer: Rootes Group
Date of First Registration: 10/01/1959
Body Type: Convertible
Engine: Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement: 1,390 cm³
Power: approximately 62 ch
Transmission: Manual with overdrive
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Steering: Left-hand drive (LHD)
Seating capacity: 4
Chassis number: A3811287 OD LCX
Mileage: 31,833 miles (not guaranteed)
Keys: Yes
Registration documents: None. An old provisional application for a Belgian registration card and an old technical inspection report are included in the file.
Condition:
The engine has not been started, and no test drive has been performed.
Sold as-is, considered inoperable, without a technical inspection.
Sold as-is, considered inoperable, without a technical inspection, for restoration or for parts
Estimate
Reserve
Time, Location
Auction House
