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The clocks have changed, and there is a certain crispness in the air – in short, it is that time of the year when many classic sports car enthusiasts start considering a coupe rather than a convertible. However, the Sunbeam Alpine GT, with its detachable roof and soignée lines, really was the best of both worlds – assuming you only required two seats.

The GT was introduced alongside the Alpine Series III in March 1963. At £899 11s 3d it cost £59 4d 2d more than the “Sports” convertible. Still, it did offer a superior interior with a wood-rimmed steering wheel, a carpeted floor, a walnut veneer fascia and, most importantly of all, a detachable hard-top. When these features were added to the adjustable steering column, reclining seats, two-speed wipers and windscreen washers common to both models, it was evident that the GT was a very attractive proposition.

An Autocar report noted how the vestigial rear seat was suitable ‘for two children’, how the cabin was ‘typically British – in the nicest sense of the word’ and how the GT was ‘a sophisticated form of transport’.  Naturally, Rootes equipped the test Sunbeam with optional white-wall tyres; it was the sort of car that bestowed Pinewood-style glamour on its owner.

Ten months later the Series IV could be recognised via its cropped tail fins, modified grille and amber front indicators.  The same title evaluated a GT equipped with Borg Warner Type 35 transmission and came to the very 1964 conclusion that ‘Many women would find it ideal’ (no comment). However, the Sunbeam would not ‘be a disappointment to a manual gear change enthusiast’.

Rootes intended the automatic box to appeal to US motorists but the impact on the Alpine’s performance – the top speed was reduced to 92 mph – that Rootes sold comparatively few examples. For October 1965, the Series V now featured sun visors, a courtesy lamp and (at last) a heater as standard in addition to a five-bearing 1,725cc engine with twin Zenith Stromberg 150CD carburettors. Motor Sport of January 1966 found the Series V GT to be:

a very compact fast car, its controls conveniently located, the handling satisfactory in an old-fashioned manner, brakes excellent, steering light and play-free, and its equipment practical and lavish. 

Meanwhile, Sporting Motorist of February 1966 regarded the GT as offering ‘a refreshing change from the normal run of £1,000 saloons while offering almost as much comfort’. It was a car that was “jet set” and more “Winchester on a Saturday Night”. One advertisement claimed the Series V ‘brought out the best in driving in people who drive for the joy of handling a fast, expensive car’. And in the mid-1960s, 100 mph was a very reasonable top speed.

Alas, Chrysler’s gradual takeover of the Rootes empire meant that there was to be no heir to the Alpine when production ceased in January 1968. It was yet another lost opportunity for Dearborn, for the brand could have been redeveloped for the 1970s as an alternative to the MGB and the Triumph TR6. As it was, the GT was the ideal “all-weather sports car” – even if the lack of a hood; meant it was wise to check the weather forecast before leaving the roof at home.

Why choose Lancaster Insurance?

Here at Lancaster, we love classic cars as much as you do and we understand what it takes to protect them for future generations.

We have links with some of the top classic car clubs around the country and some of our policies even offer discounts of up to 25% for club members.

Other benefits of classic car insurance through Lancaster can include:

• Historic rally cover
• Static show cover
• Limited mileage discounts
• Choice of repairer
• 24-hour claims helpline

Give your classic the protection it deserves and get a quote for your classic today.