Sunbeam Rapier
Overview
| Produced: |
1967-1976, 46206 produced. |
|---|---|
| Types: |
Coupe,2 doors,4 seats |
In 1967 Sunbeam announced a unique sports-coupe model based on the new Rootes "Arrow" (Hillman Hunter) platform which had MacPherson front suspension and a rear-wheel drive layout. The new Sunbeam was named "Rapier" which rekindled the established Sunbeam model name from previous ranges.
The body of the new Rapier had sweeping modern lines which drew styling influences from contemporary US models. Standard mechanical equipment included servo assisted front disc brakes, twin carburettors and a close ratio and a manual-overdrive gearbox (automatic optional). The Rapier tried its best to compete with its arch rival the Ford Capri up until it was discontinued in 1976.
Engines
| Capacity | Config | Model | Bore/Stroke | CR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1725cc | S4 OHV | Hillman S4 OHV | 81.5mm x 82.55mm |
Auction Sales History
| Lot Num |
Description | Auctioneer | Date | Hammer Price | Hammer Price (inc premium) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78 | Sunbeam Rapier Fastback | Brightwells Auctioneers and Valuers | 21 Sep 2011 | £3500.00 | - |
| Unknown | Sunbeam RAPIER | Anglia Car Auctions | 22 Jan 2011 | £3900.00 | - |
| 212 | Sunbeam Rapier Fastback | Barons | 22 Jul 2008 | £1200.00 | - |
| 008 | Sunbeam Rapier Fastback (1969) | Sandown | 9 Mar 1997 | Not sold | |
| 004 | Sunbeam Rapier (1972) | Parkes | 2 Feb 1997 | Not sold | |
| 090 | Sunbeam Rapier (1971) | ADT | 7 Oct 1996 | £1950.00 | - |
| 203 | Sunbeam Rapier (1973) | RTS Auctions Ltd | 1 Sep 1996 | £250.00 | - |
| 044 | Sunbeam Rapier (1969) | ADT | 17 Jun 1996 | - | £1315.00 |
| 241 | Sunbeam Rapier (1968) | RTS Auctions Ltd | 26 Nov 1995 | £560.00 | - |
| 053 | Sunbeam Rapier Manual (1976) | H&H Sales Limited | 23 Nov 1995 | Not sold | |
| 110 | Sunbeam Rapier (1973) | ADT | 21 Feb 1994 | Not sold | |
Books
| ISBN | Title | Publisher | Buy this book |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1870642120 | Practical Classics on Sunbeam Rapier Restoration | Brooklands Books |
|
Magazine Articles
| Title | Pages | Options | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Article |
Classic Cars February 2002 pg 97 |
97 |
|
|
| Publication | Classic Cars February 2002 | |||
| Fifties Saloon Racers. We test four hopefuls set to scrap it out in a new Fifties saloon car racing series: Jaguar MkV11, Sunbeam Rapier, Austin A40 and Morris Minor. | ||||
| Article |
Buying Power - Sunbeam Rapier Series 1-5 |
28 |
|
|
| Publication | Classic Car Weekly 5 February 2009 | |||
| Buying Power - Sunbeam Rapier Series 1-5 - Rootes' Sunbeam Rapiers are far more than the Hillman Minx in a posh frock some people image. They are stylish, well-built and even the lowest spec model will whisk you at 80mph. Nick Larkin reports. | ||||
| Article |
Buying Power - Sunbeam Rapier and Alpine Fastback |
32 |
|
|
| Publication | Classic Car Weekly 1 May 2008 | |||
| Buying Power - Sunbeam Rapier and Alpine Fastback - Britain's take on the Plymouth Barracuda - and Rootes' Capri rival during the Seventies - was the Sunbeam Rapier, along its less luxurious, less powerful Alpine counterpart. ADAM TAIT looks at buying on of these now rare machines. | ||||
| Article |
Restoration Rapier returns |
108 |
|
|
| Publication | Classics Monthly July 2006 | |||
| Restoration Rapier returns - Despite having no background in restoration and limited space and facilities, Don Tourle mad a rotten Rapier sharp again. | ||||
| Article |
Thinking of buying ...A Sunbeam Lotus? |
48 |
|
|
| Publication | Classic Car Mart September 2005 | |||
| Thinking of buying ...A Sunbeam Lotus? - These handsome pocket rockets are among the less well-known of the first generation hot hatches. Ted Purcell recommends them, though, and guides us through the perils of purchase. | ||||
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