The 1960s Sunbeam Alpine is a classic British roadster that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts for decades. Understanding the specifications of this iconic vehicle is crucial for collectors, restorers, and anyone interested in its rich history. This article delves into the detailed specs of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine, providing a comprehensive overview of its various models and features. From engine performance to chassis details, we'll cover everything you need to know about this beloved sports car. So, buckle up and let's dive into the world of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine!

A Brief Overview of the Sunbeam Alpine

The Sunbeam Alpine, produced by the Rootes Group from 1953 to 1968, is a two-seater convertible sports car that gained popularity for its stylish design and spirited performance. The 1960s models, specifically the Series II, III, IV, and V, represent the pinnacle of the Alpine's evolution. Each series brought its own set of improvements and refinements, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Alpine was not only a stylish roadster but also a capable performer, with some models achieving notable success in rallying and racing events. Its blend of British charm and sporty character made it a hit on both sides of the Atlantic, particularly in the United States, where it found a significant following. Understanding the nuances of each series is essential for appreciating the full scope of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine. The design was heavily influenced by contemporary trends, featuring clean lines, a low profile, and a distinctive front grille that exuded elegance and sportiness. The interior was equally well-appointed, with comfortable seating, a stylish dashboard, and user-friendly controls. The Alpine's appeal was further enhanced by its availability in a range of attractive colors and trim options, allowing buyers to customize their cars to suit their personal tastes. The car's reputation for reliability and ease of maintenance also contributed to its popularity, making it a practical choice for everyday use as well as weekend fun. The Sunbeam Alpine remains a symbol of British automotive heritage, celebrated for its design, performance, and enduring appeal.

Engine Specifications

The engine is the heart of any car, and the Sunbeam Alpine is no exception. The 1960s models were primarily equipped with inline-four-cylinder engines, but the specific displacement and output varied across the different series.

• Series II (1960-1963): The Series II Alpine typically featured a 1,592 cc (97.2 cu in) inline-four engine. This engine produced around 80 horsepower, providing a decent amount of power for its size. The engine was known for its reliability and smooth operation, making it a popular choice among drivers. Its cast iron block and overhead valve design were typical of the era, offering a good balance of performance and durability. The engine's relatively simple construction also made it easier to maintain and repair, which was a significant advantage for owners. The Series II engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to make the most of the available power. The car's lightweight construction further enhanced its performance, making it feel nimble and responsive on the road. Overall, the Series II engine was a well-engineered unit that provided a satisfying driving experience.

• Series III (1963-1964): The Series III maintained the same 1,592 cc engine as the Series II, with slight improvements to enhance performance and reliability. These improvements included modifications to the carburetor and exhaust system, which helped to increase horsepower and improve fuel efficiency. The Series III engine also benefited from improved cooling and lubrication systems, which helped to extend its lifespan and reduce the risk of mechanical issues. Despite these enhancements, the Series III engine retained the same basic design as its predecessor, ensuring that it remained easy to maintain and repair. The Series III also featured a revised interior and exterior styling, making it a more attractive and desirable car overall. The Series III engine was a testament to the Rootes Group's commitment to continuous improvement, demonstrating their ability to refine and enhance existing designs without compromising reliability or ease of use. The engine provided a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, making the Series III a popular choice among enthusiasts.

• Series IV (1964-1965): The Series IV saw the introduction of a larger 1,725 cc (105.3 cu in) engine, which bumped the horsepower up to around 93. This increase in power significantly improved the Alpine's performance, making it quicker and more responsive. The larger engine also provided more torque, which made the car more comfortable to drive at lower speeds. The Series IV engine featured a number of improvements over its predecessors, including a redesigned cylinder head and a more efficient intake manifold. These changes helped to improve the engine's breathing and increase its overall efficiency. The Series IV also featured a revised suspension system, which improved handling and stability. The combination of the larger engine and improved suspension made the Series IV a significantly better car to drive than the earlier models. The Series IV engine was a major step forward for the Sunbeam Alpine, demonstrating the Rootes Group's commitment to providing drivers with the best possible performance.

• Series V (1965-1968): The Series V continued with the 1,725 cc engine, but with further refinements that pushed the horsepower to approximately 98. This made the Series V the most powerful of the 1960s Alpines. The engine's increased power was achieved through a combination of improved cylinder head design, a higher compression ratio, and a more efficient exhaust system. The Series V also benefited from a number of other enhancements, including a stronger gearbox and a more robust rear axle. These improvements helped to ensure that the car could handle the increased power without any reliability issues. The Series V was the ultimate expression of the Sunbeam Alpine, combining classic British styling with impressive performance. The car's combination of style, performance, and reliability made it a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors alike. The Series V engine was a fitting tribute to the Sunbeam Alpine's legacy, demonstrating the Rootes Group's commitment to excellence.

Chassis and Suspension

The chassis and suspension of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine were designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. The Alpine featured a steel box-section chassis, which provided a strong and rigid platform for the car. This chassis design was typical of the era and offered a good compromise between weight and strength. The suspension system consisted of independent coil springs at the front and a live axle with leaf springs at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride while also allowing for reasonable handling. The front suspension's independent design helped to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, while the rear suspension provided stability and control. The Alpine's suspension was tuned to provide a slightly softer ride than some of its competitors, making it a comfortable car for long-distance driving. However, it was still capable enough to handle winding roads and provide an enjoyable driving experience. The chassis and suspension of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine were well-engineered and contributed significantly to the car's overall appeal.

Front Suspension

The front suspension of the Sunbeam Alpine utilized independent coil springs and wishbones. This setup allowed each front wheel to move independently, improving ride quality and handling. The coil springs provided a comfortable and controlled ride, while the wishbones helped to maintain proper wheel alignment. The front suspension also included telescopic dampers, which helped to dampen vibrations and improve stability. The independent front suspension was a significant improvement over earlier designs, providing a more comfortable and controlled driving experience. The design allowed the Alpine to handle uneven road surfaces with ease, making it a comfortable car for both city and highway driving. The front suspension was also relatively easy to maintain and repair, which was a significant advantage for owners. Overall, the independent front suspension of the Sunbeam Alpine was a well-engineered and effective design that contributed significantly to the car's overall appeal.

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension featured a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. This setup was simpler and more robust than the independent front suspension, providing good stability and load-carrying capacity. The leaf springs provided a comfortable ride, while the live axle ensured that both rear wheels moved together. The rear suspension also included telescopic dampers, which helped to dampen vibrations and improve stability. The live axle rear suspension was a common design for the era, offering a good balance of cost, reliability, and performance. While it was not as sophisticated as the independent front suspension, it provided adequate handling and stability for most driving conditions. The rear suspension was also relatively easy to maintain and repair, which was a significant advantage for owners. Overall, the live axle rear suspension of the Sunbeam Alpine was a well-engineered and effective design that complemented the independent front suspension.

Brakes and Steering

The brakes and steering systems of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine were designed to provide adequate stopping power and precise control. The Alpine featured drum brakes on all four wheels, which was typical for cars of this era. While drum brakes were not as effective as disc brakes, they provided sufficient stopping power for the Alpine's weight and performance. The braking system was hydraulically operated, providing a smooth and consistent pedal feel. The steering system utilized a worm and sector design, which provided precise and responsive steering. The steering was relatively light and easy to use, making the Alpine a comfortable car to drive in both city and highway conditions. The combination of drum brakes and worm and sector steering provided a well-balanced and predictable driving experience.

Brakes

The Sunbeam Alpine was equipped with drum brakes on all four wheels. These brakes were hydraulically operated and provided adequate stopping power for the car's performance capabilities. While drum brakes were not as efficient as disc brakes, which were becoming more common in higher-performance vehicles at the time, they were reliable and relatively simple to maintain. The drum brakes consisted of a rotating drum attached to the wheel hub and brake shoes that pressed against the inner surface of the drum to create friction and slow the vehicle. The hydraulic system ensured that the braking force was evenly distributed to all four wheels, providing balanced and controlled stopping. The brake pedal feel was generally good, allowing drivers to modulate the braking force effectively. While drum brakes required more frequent adjustments than disc brakes, they were a proven and dependable technology that served the Sunbeam Alpine well.

Steering

The steering system of the Sunbeam Alpine used a worm and sector mechanism. This system provided a direct and responsive feel, allowing the driver to maintain precise control over the car. The worm and sector steering consisted of a worm gear connected to the steering column and a sector gear that moved the steering linkage. This setup provided a mechanical advantage, making it easier for the driver to turn the wheels. The steering was relatively light and easy to use, even at low speeds. The worm and sector steering also provided good feedback from the road, allowing the driver to feel what the car was doing. While the worm and sector steering was not as sophisticated as rack and pinion steering, which was becoming more common in later vehicles, it was a reliable and effective system that suited the Sunbeam Alpine's character. The steering system contributed to the car's overall driving enjoyment, providing a sense of connection between the driver and the road.

Dimensions and Weight

The dimensions and weight of the 1960s Sunbeam Alpine contributed to its nimble handling and sporty feel. The Alpine had a relatively short wheelbase, which made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Its overall length was also relatively compact, making it easy to park and store. The Alpine's low weight further enhanced its handling and acceleration. The car's lightweight construction also contributed to its fuel efficiency. The dimensions and weight of the Sunbeam Alpine were carefully considered to provide a balance of performance, handling, and practicality. The car's compact size and low weight made it a fun and engaging car to drive, while its reasonable interior space made it a comfortable car for everyday use. The dimensions and weight of the Sunbeam Alpine were a key factor in its overall appeal.

Conclusion

The 1960s Sunbeam Alpine is a remarkable classic car with a rich history and a devoted following. Its detailed specifications, from engine options to chassis design, showcase the engineering and design considerations of the era. Whether you're a collector, a restorer, or simply an admirer, understanding these specs is essential for appreciating the Sunbeam Alpine's enduring appeal. The Alpine's combination of style, performance, and practicality made it a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors alike. The car's classic British design and sporty character have stood the test of time, making it a sought-after classic car. The 1960s Sunbeam Alpine remains a symbol of British automotive heritage, celebrated for its design, performance, and enduring appeal. Its specifications reflect the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the era, making it a fascinating subject for enthusiasts and historians alike. The Sunbeam Alpine's legacy continues to inspire and captivate, ensuring its place in automotive history for years to come.