1960 Sunbeam Rapier.
These photographs were taken in 1970 and 1971, and feature Peter's Series III Sunbeam Rapier, a car built in 1960. These rakish cars, products of the Rootes empire, were based on the somewhat plainer Hillman Minx platform, sharing much of the design beneath the surface. The Rapier however was a two dour coupe, with stylish wraparound rear window and tiny fins on the rear wings, the latter a feature that was first introduced with the previous SII.
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The Series III Rapier, as shown above, made it's debut in 1959, and was an evolution of the Series II rather than a completely new design. The side flash, in a contrasting colour to the main body, was slimmer on the Series III - the previous car had a wider flash that incorporated the rear fins - this subtle difference can be seen in the middle brochure cover image, in the collection of views below.
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It was from the inside that the main differences would be noticed, by Mr or Mrs Rapier Driver. The cabin was airier with the Series III, thanks to slimmer screen pillars and a greater glass area. Emphasising the upmarket nature of the Rapier, when compared to lowlier Minxes, the Series III buyer now benefited from a smart wooden dashboard, instead of a painted metal affair, and re-designed seating.
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Under the bonnet lay the familiar 1500cc engine, a unit shared with the two door Alpine sportscar of the same era. The Series III Rapier featured an eight port aluminium cylinder head, and a perkier camshaft profile. Twin carbs, as found on the Series II, continued to be standard fitment on the new car. The net result was a small increase in engine power. Reigning in this extra 'go' were new disk brakes up front, standard fitment on both the hardtop coupe, and the convertible.
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Return to Old Vehicle Photos Page 7.
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