1967 | Sunbeam Alpine Mk V

The ‘Series’ Sunbeam Alpine was introduced by Rootes in 1959, using the then current Hillman Minx as the basis for a 2-seater sports convertible. The styling was aimed squarely at the US market and it was indeed designed by a pair of Americans, resulting in the prominent US-style fins at the rear of the car but a low front end to enhance the impression of speed, even at a standstill.

The Alpine underwent four subsequent revisions until production ended in 1968, shortly after the Chrysler takeover of the Rootes Group, by which time around 70,000 of the model had been built. With the introduction of each new Series, there were changes made to the engine – which grew in size and power – and to body detail with, in particular, the American-style fins becoming less prominent.

The car offered here is a final Series V model, of which a little over 19,000 were made. This Series first appeared in 1965 and made use of the largest engine fitted to the Alpine – a twin carburettor, 1725 cc unit, with a claimed 93 bhp on tap.

Dating from 1967, we have no early history for the vehicle but believe it to have been UK-registered and then exported to Guernsey in 1979, where it has remained until acquired by us in 2023. The car has recently undergone some recommissioning work, including a service; new tyres all round; new brake master cylinder & servo; new overdrive solenoid and new timing cover.

The Alpine drives very well, feeling quite lively, the gearchange is good and the overdrive functions smoothly. Holbay badging and tubular exhaust manifold hint at some performance tuning having been carried out, but we have no documentation to support this. The former owner reported the car was occasionally used by her husband in competitive events.

Being the GT model, the car has a steel hardtop - which is detachable – and a tonneau cover for use when removed. The body of the car is generally sound with no obvious corrosion. The Forest Green paintwork is good but on close inspection does show signs of its age with some blistering. All trim and badges etc. are present, correct and in good condition.

The tan interior is in a generally good condition and appears original, although we are aware of some refurbishment of the door cappings and the fitment of new seat diaphragms. The dashboard instrumentation is complete and the dashboard veneer in good condition. There is a repair to the dashboard top.

This is a solid and very usable example of the last and most powerful Series of the Sunbeam Alpine GT. It starts, drives and stops well. Whilst not cosmetically perfect, it is ready for daily use, with the practical benefit of a detachable roof. It can equally be used as a sunny weekend, open tourer.

The car is Guernsey registered, but currently located in Jersey. We can assist with shipping and importation processes if required and can ship worldwide.