1953 Sunbeam Alpine Roadster – Rebuilt in Blue and Cream

Finished in an elegant shade of metallic blue with a cream interior and contrasting piping, this 1953 Sunbeam Alpine has all the presence of a classic British open two-seater. Its sweeping wings, long louvred bonnet, chrome detailing and whitewall tyres make a particularly attractive combination, complemented by a right-hand-drive cockpit with an ivory-coloured steering wheel and period instruments.

The owner's history records manufacture and export to South Africa on 24 July 1953, followed by UK registration on 7 August 2020. Registered 918 XVK, the car has benefited from an extensive rebuild, including a bare-metal repaint of the exterior and engine bay.

At its heart is a 2, 366 cc Sunbeam 90 engine rebuilt by Lee Keller and upgraded to Alpine Mk III specification, with a performance camshaft and an estimated output of approximately 120 bhp. The rebuild notes detail cleaning, sleeving and boring of the block, JP pistons, porting and gas-flow work, replacement valves and springs, and Weber twin-choke downdraught carburation with a new inlet manifold. A replacement timing chain and oil pump are also recorded. A floor-change manual gearbox completes the driving arrangement.

Further work included a refurbished radiator with a thermostatically controlled electric fan, renewed engine mounts, refurbished steering and brakes, and replacement brake servo, master cylinder and hydraulic lines. Electronic ignition, an alternator, an aluminium fuel tank and an electric fuel pump feature among the upgrades, alongside four replacement dampers and five tyres.

4, 415 miles indicated.

A striking early Alpine with a substantial programme of work behind it and a colour combination that suits its graceful lines beautifully. Offered by SLJ Hackett at £44, 500.

SLJ Hackett, Official Heritage Partner of Bristol Cars

Approved by Bristol Cars Group Ltd

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