Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Curated Auction

RESERVE MET – 1963 Sunbeam Alpine Series 3

At a Glance

Overdrive Gearbox | Factory Fog Lamps | Hard Top Included

  • Mileage~93,862 on the clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.6-Litre
  • LocationSouthsea, Portsmouth

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more


Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

Days
HRS
MIN
SEC
CURRENT BID£6,050
See Bidding

AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£6,050

Introduction

Alan Stuart
Professional Consigner and Photographer

The Sunbeam Alpine is one of Britain's most charming 1960s sports cars, combining elegant styling with relaxed touring manners and simple mechanicals.

This Series III example has clearly been cherished throughout its life, remaining largely original while benefiting from carefully considered upgrades that make it an even more enjoyable classic to drive today.

Having spent 15 years with its previous keeper before changing hands around 18 months ago, it has proven itself on European touring adventures.

This listing was written from information supplied by Alan after meeting Patrick the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I've always liked the Alpine and bought this one because it was such an honest example -it's a fantastic car to drive and has never let me down,

Patrick has owned the Alpine for around 1.5 years after purchasing it from an enthusiast who had cared for it for approximately 15 years.

The decision to sell comes purely down to space following the purchase of his H120 Fastback, making this a rather reluctant sale.

Patrick will be happy to answer any questions into the comments section below.

Patrick
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

The Alpine's Kenneth Howes from the Rootes Group-penned styling remains one of the prettiest British sports car designs of the 1960s, and this Series III presents as a smart, honest example that has clearly been enjoyed rather than over-restored.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on its correct wire wheels which remain in excellent order and complement the Alpine's classic proportions perfectly. They present well and complete the period appearance.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

image

Bodywork

The body presents in good condition. The car has seen localised repairs over the years, as expected of a sixty-year-old classic, but has never undergone a full restoration, allowing it to retain plenty of originality.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

Finished in white with a contrasting red interior, the paintwork presents very well overall and gives the Alpine a crisp, timeless appearance. During our visit we noted only a few very small paint bubbles beginning to appear on the passenger-side front wing, with the remainder presenting strongly for an older car.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The brightwork is in very good condition throughout, with the chrome bumpers, luggage rack, mirrors and trim all presenting nicely.

Factory fitted fog lamps remain in place, while an aftermarket hard top is included with the sale for those wanting year-round usability.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

image

Interior

Inside, the Alpine offers a wonderfully period driving environment while incorporating a handful of tasteful upgrades designed to improve comfort without detracting from its character.

Seats and Carpets

The cabin is trimmed in red throughout and remains in excellent condition.

Upgraded MGF seats provide significantly improved comfort and support over the originals, making longer journeys far more enjoyable while still suiting the car's classic appearance. Carpets and trim are equally well presented.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard retains its original charm, complete with clear Smiths instruments, classic switchgear and period radio.

Everything is reported to function correctly, reflecting the care this Alpine has received throughout its life.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original steering wheel remains fitted and sits ahead of a clean, uncluttered instrument panel.

The manual gear lever operates smoothly, while the desirable overdrive gearbox makes longer journeys more relaxed and enjoyable.

image

Mechanics

Mechanically, this Alpine has benefited from thoughtful maintenance and sensible upgrades aimed at improving reliability while preserving the character of the car.

Engine and Gearbox

The twin Weber setup has been replaced with the owners' club recommended single Weber conversion, making tuning simpler and improving drivability. The engine starts easily, pulls well and Patrick describes the car as driving fantastically.

An electric cooling fan has also been fitted to improve cooling in modern traffic, while the overdrive gearbox shifts smoothly through all gears.

image

Suspension and Brakes

Recent expenditure includes new front brake calipers, new rear brake cylinders, new front shock absorbers and a comprehensive brake overhaul.

The suspension rides well and the car feels composed and confidence inspiring on the road.

image

The Drive

This Alpine is exactly what a classic British roadster should be, light, responsive and immensely enjoyable.

Patrick reports it drives beautifully, with smooth gear changes, excellent road manners and a reassuringly solid feel underneath.

Please watch our On the Road section in the Mechanical Video to see the car start and drive around the local area.

image

Electrics and Other

All electrical items are reported to be in working order, while the addition of the electric cooling fan improves reliability for modern driving conditions.

Overall, the car appears to have been maintained with usability in mind rather than unnecessary modification.

image

History and Paperwork

This is a well-known and well-documented Alpine that has clearly spent much of its life in enthusiast ownership.

Club Register number 140, the car remained with its previous owner for approximately 15 years before Patrick purchased it 18 months ago. It comes with evidence of consistent maintenance, has been well serviced throughout its life, includes its aftermarket hard top and benefits from a history of sensible mechanical improvements rather than unnecessary restoration.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
09/06/2023 MOT 92293
06/06/2022 MOT 92093
07/06/2021 MOT 92006
22/07/2019 MOT 91414
23/07/2018 MOT 90878
13/07/2017 MOT 90607
02/08/2011 MOT 90330
29/07/2010 MOT 90224
14/08/2009 MOT 90014
23/07/2007 MOT 88313
04/08/2006 MOT 87314
Key Details
  • Model Alpine
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 03/10/1963
  • CC 1592
  • Mileage ~93,862 on Clock
  • Colour White
  • Interior Colour Red
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # B9205404/0D/RR0
  • Engine # B9205404/OD/RRO
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 14
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~1.5 Years
  • Key Feature Low Reserve
  • Vehicle Registration ARA 268A
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Convertible
  • Auction ID 3888


    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £6,050
    £
    RESERVE MET – 1963 Sunbeam Alpine Series 3
    AUCTION STATUS RESERVE MET
    RESERVE NOT MET RESERVE MET
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 20th Aug at 7.30pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  5
    £6,050 bid by RichNeil07.08.26 @ 12:59:10
    £5,500 bid by martin195807.08.26 @ 10:46:34
    £4,500 bid by HarveyR06.08.26 @ 16:04:20
    £3,200 bid by Donny06.08.26 @ 10:24:31
    £3,000 bid by martin195806.08.26 @ 03:59:03
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    2868
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    6 Comments
    Johnknutton
    Johnknutton
    1 day ago

    Hi Patric
    Is there a soft top with the car

    rocky2
    rocky2
    3 days ago

    can i ask what price are you lookiing for so i will know if its in my price range..

    ColinB
    ColinB
    Admin
      rocky2
    3 days ago

    Hi Rocky,

    All our cars have a reserve unless stated otherwise, we can’t disclose this as it undermines the auction.

    Thanks,
    Colin.

    crossfire1
    crossfire1
    8 days ago

    Hi, would you be willing to have the car MOT tested prior to the auction ending?

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Sunbeam like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2026.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Southsea, Portsmouth

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

    As a guide:
    – If you’re able to place a second bid, the reserve hasn’t been met.
    – If you attempt to outbid yourself and the system blocks it, then the reserve has been met.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

    Network Connection – your device may lose connection and you’re not able to bid, or see the latest bidding history.