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Sold

1963 Sunbeam Alpine Series 3

Sold Price

£8,220

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

SOLD

1963 Sunbeam Alpine Series 3

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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.

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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

Patrick saved £1,440* when they
sold their Sunbeam with us.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
  • Year1963
  • ModelAlpine
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date03/10/1963
  • CC1592
  • Mileage~93,862 on Clock
  • ColourWhite
  • Interior ColourRed
  • Interior TrimLeather
  • Chassis #B9205404/0D/RR0
  • Engine #B9205404/OD/RRO
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers14
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~1.5 Years
  • Key FeatureLow Reserve
  • Vehicle RegistrationARA 268A
  • Driver’s SideRight
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body TypeConvertible
  • Auction ID3888







Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
8 Comments
Ash00036
Ash00036
3 days ago

Hi Patrick, Can you please confirm that, as of the March 2026 inspection, the chassis, sills, floors and suspension mounting points were all structurally sound, with no significant corrosion or previous structural welding? If you are aware of any such repairs or issues, please disclose them.

Johnknutton
Johnknutton
6 days ago

Hi Patric
Is there a soft top with the car

rocky2
rocky2
8 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
8 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
14 days ago

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

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Vehicle Location

Southsea, Portsmouth

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