1969 Sunbeam Alpine GT Coupe

The new Alpine fastback, a closed sport tourer, will appear in the U.S. for 1969. Chrysler and Rootes have made a concerted product shift by creating two fastback models, unique for the U.S. and Canadian market.

The Alpine GT, a 94 horsepower twin-carburetor version with burled walnut interior, is aimed at the modest-luxury market. It is a stylish vehicle with good performance and fuel economy, and still offers all the creature comforts sought after by buyers of all ages.

The Alpine Coupe shares every essential features of the GT without visual censure but will be more modestly priced. Its power plant is derived from the 73 horsepower Arrow sedan. Its interior, too, is done in walnut, vinyl and carpeting.

Styling
The fastback body is highlighted by a V-shaped grille and dual headlights. A shadow-capturing break line extends from fender tip to taillight. The long hood slopes gently to a vee and the taut roof arcs smoothly to the tip of the deck. Rear and side glass combine to provide an airy 'bridge' structure. The 'C' post is vinyl covered and carries the emblem 'GT' in its center. 'Alpine' is spelled in block letters at its base.

The rear is crisply chamfered in a stub-deck effect to help accent the hood's length. The curved side glass and quarter window protect from and rear fenders. A die-cast and chromed filler cap nestles high on the left rear fender.

GT Features
A full-width sill molding, in brushed aluminum, covers the entire rocker panel. Full wheel covers, rubber bumper guards and window moldings highlight the car. Three stainless bars interspersed with black are on the trunk lid's rear face.

The engine is a smooth four-cylinder twin-carburetor 1725cc power plant, fitted with a new hydraulic vibration damper. The transmission is a four-speed manual with automatic as optional.

The interior is in burled walnut replete with instruments, gadgets and assists including tachometer, lighter, vanity mirror and clock. Headrest-high front seats in breathable Ambla vinyl coordinate with the molded carpet floor covering. A deep-dish steering wheel with soft center-hub is used.

Coupe Features
Only subtle exterior differences distinguish the Coupe from the GT. A thin sill cap molding replaces the wide GT style and the window reveal moldings are slightly narrowed. Trunk moldings are simpler. Full but simple wheel covers are used. The 'C' post is body-color with the Rootes lion in its center.

The interior features a straight-grain walnut instrument panel with round speedometer and instrument cluster. The center console is a molded polymer with two ashtrays. Embossed Ambla vinyl and molded carpeting are used. The headrest-high front seats are of the same configuration as the GT.

Welcomed Features
Flow-through ventilation -- with a fan-driven fresh air system and swiveling spot coolers - effectively deals with winter stuffiness or summer simmering.

The large-size trunk is due in part to the spare tire storage beneath the rear body in a theft-proof steel sling.

Roadability
Roadability of both models is due to its modern strut suspension, front disc brakes and wide-spaced leaf-spring rear suspension. Excellent road feel and tolerance to wind sway are the rewards of this design.

Major Options
Three-speed automatic transmission, radio and whitewalls. Only the GT carries radial ply tires as standard.

Source - Sunbeam /Chrysler