1963 Sunbeam Alpine Series 3

The Sunbeam Alpine is one of Britain's most charming 1960s sports cars, combining elegant styling with relaxed touring manners and simple mechanicals. Finished in white with a contrasting red interior, the paintwork presents very well overall and gives the Alpine a crisp, timeless appearance. During our visit we noted only a few very small paint bubbles beginning to appear on the passenger-side front wing, with the remainder presenting strongly for an older car. The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint. The body presents in good condition. The car has seen localised repairs over the years, as expected of a sixty-year-old classic, but has never undergone a full restoration, allowing it to retain plenty of originality. We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves. The dashboard retains its original charm, complete with clear Smiths instruments, classic switchgear and period radio. Everything is reported to function correctly, reflecting the care this Alpine has received throughout its life. This Alpine is exactly what a classic British roadster should be, light, responsive and immensely enjoyable. Patrick reports it drives beautifully, with smooth gear changes, excellent road manners and a reassuringly solid feel underneath. Please watch our On the Road section in the Mechanical Video to see the car start and drive around the local area. The brightwork is in very good condition throughout, with the chrome bumpers, luggage rack, mirrors and trim all presenting nicely. Factory fitted fog lamps remain in place, while an aftermarket hard top is included with the sale for those wanting year-round usability. Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself. The car sits on its correct wire wheels which remain in excellent order and complement the Alpine's classic proportions perfectly. They present well and complete the period appearance. Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old. The cabin is trimmed in red throughout and remains in excellent condition. Upgraded MGF seats provide significantly improved comfort and support over the originals, making longer journeys far more enjoyable while still suiting the car's classic appearance. Carpets and trim are equally well presented. Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself. The twin Weber setup has been replaced with the owners' club recommended single Weber conversion, making tuning simpler and improving drivability. The engine starts easily, pulls well and Patrick describes the car as driving fantastically. An electric cooling fan has also been fitted to improve cooling in modern traffic, while the overdrive gearbox shifts smoothly through all gears. All electrical items are reported to be in working order, while the addition of the electric cooling fan improves reliability for modern driving conditions. Overall, the car appears to have been maintained with usability in mind rather than unnecessary modification. Club Register number 140, the car remained with its previous owner for approximately 15 years before Patrick purchased it 18 months ago. It comes with evidence of consistent maintenance, has been well serviced throughout its life, includes its aftermarket hard top and benefits from a history of sensible mechanical improvements rather than unnecessary restoration. We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check. We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming. If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. Recent expenditure includes new front brake calipers, new rear brake cylinders, new front shock absorbers and a comprehensive brake overhaul. The suspension rides well and the car feels composed and confidence inspiring on the road. The original steering wheel remains fitted and sits ahead of a clean, uncluttered instrument panel. The manual gear lever operates smoothly, while the desirable overdrive gearbox makes longer journeys more relaxed and enjoyable.