Sunbeam Alpine Series I - V (sports)

The Alpine name, previously used by Sunbeam on an earlier car, was revived for this all new sports car launched in 1959. Based on a Hillman Husky floorpan, and using the 1494cc 4-cylinder engine from the Sunbeam Rapier, this new medium sized and attractive sports car was welcomed by the buying public who were at the time were not spoilt for choice in this area of the market. Performance, while not outstanding was brisk for the day, and handling was well able to cope with the cars power. Modifications were made to the series II model that was launched in 1960. These included an increase to engine capacity and improved suspension.

With the arrival of the Series III Alpine in 1964 came the option of a GT model that featured a hardtop and 2+2 seating. The GT also benefited from wood veneer dashboard and more luxurious trim, but all series III cars were fitted with twin fuel tanks and larger front disc brakes which were now servo assisted. January 1964 brought with it the next in the series - the series IV. The tail fins on this car were now much less pronounced than on the earlier models and other styling changes included a different front grille and redesigned indicators. Automatic transmission became an option on this model and in October 1964 the Alpine received an all synchromesh gearbox. The final model, the series V was introduced in October 1965 and was fitted with a stronger 1725 cc engine, but was only available with manual transmission. Styling was similar to the previous model. The Alpine ended production in January 1969 but the Alpine name was to be used again on a totally different design of Sunbeam launched in October 1969.