LOT 528

c.1914 Sunbeam 12-16hp Sports Tourer 'Special' Registration no. BF 8693 Chassis no. to be advised Engine no. 7358

Estimate: £18,000 - £24,000

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Lot 528

c.1914 Sunbeam 12-16hp Sports Tourer 'Special'

The Beaulieu Sale: Collectors' Motor Cars & Automobilia|14 September 2024, 13:00 BST|Beaulieu, National Motor Museum

c.1914 Sunbeam 12-16hp Sports Tourer 'Special'
Registration no. BF 8693
Chassis no. to be advised
Engine no. 7358

• One of some 70-or-so surviving 12-16hp models
• Roughly assembled 'kit of parts' when acquired
• Benefiting from extensive works by specialists I S Polson
• Further restoration required
• Engine needs a full rebuild

Founded by John Marston, a God-fearing Victorian industrialist who foresaw the growth in demand for private transport, Sunbeam was first associated with beautifully made, though expensive, bicycles. Although comparative latecomers to motor car manufacture, Wolverhampton-based Sunbeam quickly established a fine reputation alongside Lanchester, Wolseley, Austin and Daimler at the heart of the expanding Midlands motor industry. Sunbeam's early production comprised mainly four-cylinder models, which have survived in greater numbers than any of its aforementioned contemporaries. By the outbreak of WWI the Sunbeam range consisted of four-cylinder 12/16hp and 16/20hp models plus the 25/30hp. Fewer than 5,000 of the 12/16hp model were made between 1910 and 1914, this example being one of 70-or-so survivors.

This interesting 'special' was a rough kit of parts crudely put together and just about got running by a retired schoolteacher before Oliver Heal bought it. Recognised specialists I S Polson have carried out a lot of work on the Sunbeam including rebuilding the front axle around a good second-hand beam since the original was so bad. They also made new wings and running boards; remade the bonnet; made a new scuttle and new floor; rebuilt the water pump; improved linkages and controls; remade the pressurised fuel system; improved the starter motor mounting; improved the braking system; and remade the driveshaft. Following the completion of these works the car drove satisfactorily although it clearly requires further work to the rear suspension, etc. It should be noted that the engine seemed down on power and probably needs rebuilding. Sold strictly as viewed.

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