Sunbeam Rapier MkIV
ENGINE 1592cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 84bhp@4000rpm TORQUE 91lb ft@3500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 91mph 0-60MPH 17sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 23-29mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed man MoT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 60,906 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Oil pressure sits contentedly mid-gauge on a run, as does the water temperature needle, so no cause for concern there. The brakes are Fifties adequate and the steering takes a little more heft in tighter bends than you might expect for the size of the car. That’s more a comment on the model, though, than this particular example. Gear changes are positive and the clutch light enough; the transmission was upgraded from a part- to full-synchromesh gearbox during its documented re-build eight years ago.
BODYWORK CHECK
All the panels look to be in good order and the chrome accents follow the crisp angles faithfully with no pitting or discolouration in the bright metal. The paint finish is impressive, showing no polishing swirls in the finish and no serious defects. There’s a chip to the top layer of paint at the junction of the top of the offside front wing and the base of the A-pillar, and also slight blistering visible near the lower corner of the offside front indicator mountings. IK Classics re-painted the car last year and looked after its general maintenance for the previous owner. The underside of the car is clean, shows no signs of corrosion and the exhaust appears to be strong, well-mounted and rust-free. Fuel lines and brake assemblies look likewise clean.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior is in fine fettle – it underwent a partial re-trim – and the front seats show no wear and sport some fine contrasting piping. The seat cushions look buoyant and are quite supportive. Carpets, pedals and mats show only light wear. None of the switches or controls are worn, but the clock doesn’t work.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine bay presents a similarly reassuring picture. Screws, bolts and jubilee clips look servicable with no crud built up in cross-heads or teeth. Ancillaries are in fine fettle – the carburettor looks clean and the battery appears to be quite new. There are no signs of engine leaks, stains, spillages or overheating. The cylinder head was converted to run on unleaded petrol in 2004. The paint of the engine bay and under the bonnet is fresh, though there is some overspray on the rubbers around the bonnet edge.
THE CCW VIEW
This stylish two-door saloon looks very period in its smart light green metallic paint.
It’s accompanied by a huge history file, documenting (probably) every parts transaction, replacement and fitting it has ever had. There are copies of parts invoices (suggesting home servicing) as well as garage bills. The asking price looks strong, but isn’t too much for a car that you can use without expecting any significant expenses.
PROS Well preserved by a fastidious former owner CONS Pricey for a Rootes saloon... but justifiably so
BUY IT FROM IK Classics, Washpit Mills, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 2RD. 01484 688678, Ikclassicsandracing.co.uk