ADS ON TEST
Here’s a rare LHD British classic, and as Richard McCann finds, the French climate has been kind to this Sunbeam
Rust has taken most of Sunbeam’s stylish Rapier and Alpine fastbacks off the road, which makes this French import a lucky survivor. Take it to any UK show or road rally and you can be sure of a relaxing drive, and character in spades. Possibly a concours trophy too, given its condition. And being an ultra-rare, export-spec left-hander, it’s ideal for a European grand tour.
It is lovely to drive, starting immediately and running quietly. The Rapier moves up through the gears with good synchromesh and a light, progressive clutch, and overdrive engages without a jerk. There’s plenty of torque if you don’t fancy dropping a gear when accelerating, and it rides free of knocks and rattles. The efficient handbrake is operated by a lever between the driver’s seat and door, and the brakes – front discs, rear drums – stop the car without squealing or weaving. Steering is low-geared and light.
The service history file includes a €3279 (£2778) bill for bodywork restoration by a French specialist in 2020, and the gleaming Glade Green metallic coachwork reflects this, with straight panels, even gaps and only a small touched-in bonnet stonechip and tiny area of lacquer reaction. The extensive brightwork includes polished sills, rustfree bumpers and nicely preserved badging. The distinctive original hubcaps are present, set against Old English White rims, and five matching Uniroyal Rallye 380/175 R13 tyres. The car’s underside has been treated with Dinitrol anti-rust wax to sills, floorpans, inner chassis members, bumper hangers and wheelarches.
The tan vinyl seating and doorcards and matching carpets have all been replaced and are still in fine order, as is the headlining. There is no odour of dampness inside and a check of the footwells reveals no sign of water ingress. There’s a retro-style modern FM radio that suits the car, and the padded vinyl dash-top is free from damage. The seven instruments work fine apart from the tachometer – apparently permanently redlined at 6000rpm – and the clock. The lights (with foot dip button), heater and windscreen wipers all function as they should, and the car has front seat belts.
Want to read on? Subscribe to Classic Cars today. Choose a Print+ Subscription and you'll get instant digital access and so much more. PLUS FREE UK delivery.