Sunbeam 90 MkIII

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

The first Rootes design of the post-war era, the Sunbeam-Talbot 90 was launched in 1948 and featured a modified pre-war 2-litre chassis and an overhead valve version of the 2-litre Humber Hawk engine.

In 1950 the car was much improved in MkII form with a new cruciform chassis frame, independent front suspension, better brakes and an enlarged 2,267cc 70bhp engine. Stirling Moss proved the ability of the new car by coming second overall in the 1952 Monte Carlo Rally, while works entries walked off with the Team Prize in the French Alpine Rally later in the year.

In 1952 the car was further upgraded to MkIIA spec now with 77bhp and in 1954 came the best model of all, the 80bhp Sunbeam 90 MkIII, easily distinguished by the three portholes on either side of the bonnet. Blessed with fine handling for its day with spirited acceleration, a top speed of almost 100mph and bullet-proof reliability, it made for a very sporting saloon and won the Alpine Rally outright in 1955.

First registered in July 1955, this stunning Sunbeam 90 MkIII has been in the current ownership for the last 20 years. The vendor purchased the car from its original owner, who was able to confirm that the car was taken off the road in 1957 and unused until its recommissioning in 1996. The incredibly low mileage of just 21,000 miles from new can therefore be substantiated, this two-owner car being known to the Sunbeam register.

Kept in a dry garage for the last few years, the owner has sadly been unable to exercise the car due to illness and it will therefore require a good service and check over prior to use. The chassis number would suggest that it has the desirable overdrive option fitted and the documents file includes its original handbook, five old MOTs and the maintenance poster that was supplied when the car was new. The bodywork is in lovely condition, as is the gorgeous red leather interior, which remains virtually unmarked.

Opportunities to acquire such low mileage and original sports saloons don’t come along very often and should be grasped with both hands – our advice is to bid vigorously! It would also make a great pairing with the equally original and magnificent MG Magnette elsewhere in this catalogue... 

AMENDMENT; Please note that since arrival onsite, we have been able to start the car after its period in storage.  Please note the registration number is MMW 260 and not MMX 260 as catalogued.