General description :
The much sought-after Series II Alpine, white with red interior.
MODEL HISTORY
The Alpine name, previously used by Sunbeam on an earlier model, was revived for this all-new sports car launched in 1959. Based on a Hillman Husky floorpan, the performance was not outstanding but was brisk for the day and handling was easily able to cope with the car's power. The Series I was replaced in 1960 following a production run of only 12 months in which 11,904 units were built.
The Series II, as featured here, received some minor alterations to the rear suspension, which involved an increase in the width of the leaf springs, together with larger dampers. It also offered an increase in engine capacity from 1494cc to 1592cc. Some of the features of the Series I were retained, such as vinyl seats, a padded dashboard, and adjustable panels, as were the optional extras of wire wheels, an aluminium hardtop, a fitted occasional rear seat, and overdrive. The distinctive rear fins of the Series I also remained, due to the fact that this sports car was specifically designed for the US market. Furthermore, the driving position was improved with the addition of both an adjustable steering wheel and seat position.
In November 1961, Stirling Moss and Jack Brabham had a notable success driving an Alpine at the Riverside Raceway, in California.
Equipment
Wire wheels, Lucas fog lamps, Bumper overriders, Rear seat, Driver and passenger door mirrors, Cigarette lighter, Ashtray, Front seat belts, Armrest storage compartment, Sony CD player, Spare wheel, Hard top, Original workshop manual.
EXTERIOR
The brilliant white paintwork is perfectly offset by the Alpine's enticing red interior. With the black soft-top hidden away behind the rear seat those classic British lines really come into their own. Being a Series II this car has the more flamboyant rear fins, a charming design feature that was lost in subsequent models.
This example underwent a light refurbishment some years ago and does now present with a degree of patina to the bodywork and paint. But, as a good solid example this rare model is ready to be driven and enjoyed as is. The car will be supplied with an original hard top although some restorative work to the roof will be needed.
INTERIOR
The handsome red interior looks particularly welcoming under our studio lights. The seats present in very good order with little wear to speak of. The door cards and carpets also remain in fine condition overall, free from any notable marking. On closer inspection the dash appears entirely original, with the dials still clear and damage-free.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The Sunbeam features the desirable Rootes 1592cc engine equipped with twin Zenith carbs. Producing around 80hp the Alpine is good to 100mph, which was no mean feat back in '62. With a little choke the 4-pot engine idles up to temperature nicely, and the four-speed ‘box is still a charm to operate.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The wire wheels are finished in silver and present in good order throughout. The chrome knock-off centres are also in great condition, and really complete the period aesthetic. The wheels are shod in a matching set of tyres, each with ample tread remaining. The Alpine features disc brakes at the front with drums to the rear.
HISTORY FILE
The chassis number B9117592 HRO indicates that this rare Series II Alpine was manufactured in 1962; documentation from the SAOC confirms this. Much of the car's very early history is unclear although there is plenty of paperwork dating from 1989 onwards, including a stack of invoices and numerous MOT certificates. The current V5C shows three former keepers and the MOT is valid until June 2017.