1959 Sunbeam Alpine 12A RotaryThanks for taking a look at our 1959 / 1960 Sunbeam Alpine Series 1. This is a super early production vehicle and one of the first to reach US shores in 1959. Sporting vehicle ID number 9000839, it was the 839th built. The first 500 or so units were for the home UK market so this one surely introduced buyers to a new car.
59 or 60? The very early VIN tells us it’s probably a 59 but the title says 60. It was a common practice “back in the day” to define the year model “of those foreign cars and motorcycles” as the year it was first sold.
She is a hoot to drive and runs like a dream. Nimble top down motoring at the tap of the key.
But what is that wild tune? Why that’s a RX-7 Rotary 12A breathing through a sweet Weber 45 DCOE carb. Boasting about double the HP and mated to a smooth 5 speed, it served as a daily driver for years.
Exterior.
The paint is newer but not perfect. Some touch ups, nicks etc can be seen. Good panel fit. Nice chrome and trim. The white convertible top tucks away nicely. It’s serviceable but the plastic back windows aren’t great. See the pictures.
Wheels, Tires
15 inch wire wheels. The inner splines are in nice shape.
Engine
Mazda Rotary 12A, Weber 45DCOE with a fresh rebuild
Transmission
Smooth shifting Mazda 5 speed manual transmission
Braking
working as designed.
Battery
New
Service
Fresh tune up, spark plugs, oil change, filter.
Trim
The trim is in nice shape. Some rubber moldings may want to be renewed eventually.
Glass
Good condition. Side door glass is not installed but is included
Interior
New supple black seat upholstery with Sunbeam logos embroidered on each. Console with armrest. Nice door panels
Odometer
The odometer shows 56925 miles.
Documentation
Clear title.