1961 Sunbeam Alpine Fastback Coupe

Thomas Harrington Limited Coachbuilders in Hove, Sussex prepared two Sunbeam Alpine vehicles for the 1961 edition of the 24 Hours of LeMans. They received fiberglass fastback bodies and numerous mechanical upgrades to cope with the rigors of prolonged, high-speed competition. The LeMans model lapped the circuit for 24 hours at an average speed of 91 mph, winning the Thermal Efficiency Award.

The success at LeMans inspired the creation of a new Gran Turismo based on the LeMans versions. They combined the superb chassis by Sunbeam, classic British styling coachwork, and race-bred performance tuning by George Hartwell, Ltd. They were given an extensive rear compartment to accommodate luggage, a full-width flush folding occasional seat, rearward opening quarterlight windows, fully trimmed and insulated interior, and carpeting throughout the front and rear compartments. The door trim incorporates armrests, knee pads and pockets.

Standard equipment included windscreen washers, soft-edged sun visors, and a heater. The mechanical specification included a special lightweight flywheel and competition-type clutch unit.

Approximately 110 examples were produced in 1961, and a total of approximately 384 units by the time production ended in 1964. This particular example was originally built with a 1,592 cubic-centimeter inline-four cylinder engine that was later replaced by a 1,725cc unit with five bearings - the type used in the Sunbeam Alpine Series V. The engine uses dual Weber carburetors which improved performance and durability. the engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The car was given a comprehensive restoration and finished in light blue metallic paint, with a dark blue leather interior with a burled wood dash, Momo shifter knob, and Moto-Lita wood and aluminum steering wheel.

The no-expense-spared, fully documented restoration was completed in 2019.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2021