Sunbeam Alpine 686 XFM
Parked next to a wall is an early 1960s Sunbeam Alpine sportscar, fitted with a hardtop. The early Alpines (Series 1 - 3) had the larger tailfins, as can be seen on this car, and I'm told that the curvy hardtop was fitted to the Series 1s and 2s, so that narrows this car down to a 1 or a 2. Perhaps a Sunbeam expert could help me out with the exact model shown??
The Series 1 was launched in 1959, with the Series 2 following in 1960 and having the enlarged 1592cc unit. The Series 3 came along in 1963. The GT version of the S3 came with a hardtop as standard, but with no folding soft-top roof. This gave a more roomy and refined driving experience (especially as the engine tune was softened a little) but at the expense of wind-in-the-hair fun. A Sports version of the Series 3 was also available, this came with a soft-top with the extra-cost option of a hardtop, handy if you planned to drive your Alpine all year round. Next along would be the Series IV and V, by which time the rear fins had been reduced in size, in line with current styling trends, and the move away from big fins.
The Alpine shown below is fitted with a smart set of wire wheels, and an extra spotlamp bolted to the bumper. In the background is parked an MG 1100 or 1300, 4 door saloon.
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