Not many left: ’53 Sunbeam Alpine MK I
The legendary firm of Thrupp & Maberly coachbuilders built these handsome roadsters for the Rootes Group’s Sunbeam brand. Production ceased with 3,000 built. That is a pretty impressive number considering production lasted only 2 years. Some say there may be only 300 survivors left which makes this featured MK I very interesting. The seller and current owner of nearly 30 years, was at one time a body shop manager. He tells the tale of how the paint that was done during the restoration was imperfect so he took it apart again and spent 100 hours getting the body ready for the paint you see here. It does look pretty darn good in the photos. There are many things to like about this car. It has a very elegant appearance that was good enough for Alfred Hitchcock. He starred an Alpine MK I in his film masterpiece To Catch a Thief with Grace Kelly and Cary Grant. The interior was completed during the restoration and just about everything else has already been done. The seller does tell us that the non-factory overdrive unit leaks. Sports Car Market Price Guide has #1 Alpines rated 4 stars with a valuation of $40,000. The seller’s eBay listing has the opening bid set at $20,000. Click here for the eBay listing.