Sunbeam-Talbot 80 Drophead Coupe

CATALOGUE AMENDMENT: We are lead to believe that the car may be fitted with a later (1955 on) Minx engine of either 1390 or 1494cc.

The Sunbeam-Talbot marque came into being in 1938 and was conceived as part of the Rootes Group’s rationalisation of brands. Using quality bodies from Talbot and engines and chassis from Hillman and Humber, they appealed to the well-to-do middle classes as something a little bit special.

Post war the firm introduced the 80 and 90 ranges, this time using an all new enveloping steel body made by British Light Steel Pressings Ltd in Acton. The 90s acquitted themselves well, with a string of wins on International Rallies in the hands of such drivers as Tommy Wisdom and Sheila Van Damm, the smaller 80s benefiting from the halo effect handed down from these fast saloons.

True to form the 80 model used the 47bhp 1185cc OHV engine from the Minx, the only other differentiating feature from the 90 being the use of a simple solid front axle. Whilst the saloons bodies were coming out of the Acton factory, the firm introduced a very attractive drophead coupe made by Thrupp and Maberley in Cricklewood. This was available on both the 80 and 90 models but was not sold in great numbers making them particularly rare and desirable today.

Dating from 1950, this particular 80 Drophead Coupe has been in the hands of the vendor for many years. Last used in 1970 by her father, it was the main family car and she remembers going on extended family holidays in it. Parked up in a dry barn, the interior is in good restorable condition, whilst the rest of the car remains sound, the engine turning over freely.

A most appealing restoration project, this rare coachbuilt Sunbeam-Talbot 80 now needs a new owner to restore her to her former glory.