1949 Sunbeam Talbot 90
Highlights
- Solid and presentable Sunbeam Talbot
- Desirable ‘90’ variant
- Sought after Overdrive
- Interior retrimmed and in good order
- MkII A and MkIII features
- Charming character
The Appeal
Announced in 1948, the Sunbeam Talbot was a car heavily influenced by the American styling themes of the time.
Its curvy front, pointed bonnet, sweeping curves and art deco profile were very much features seen in the more luxurious cars of the day, while the model was also well-regarded for its lively performance. This car had much success at Monte Carlo and particular Stirling Moss.
It could be ordered as a four-door saloon or a particularly stylish drophead coupe, the latter of which is a desirable car among collectors today.
There were two models: the 80 and the 90, the latter of which was one of the sportiest cars of its day, especially after 1950 and the launch of the MK II, when it acquired a larger 2,267cc engine, making it capable of speeds in excess of 80mph.
In 1952 it evolved into the MkII A with a higher compression ratio and even livelier performance. That's what we have here essentially a Sunbeam Talbot 90 MkII A drophead coupe, which reputedly was the best of the bunch.
This car is a somewhat older restoration very well known to the Sunbeam Talbot Alpine Register, having been featured in Classic Cars magazine and reportedly also in an Elton John music video.
It oozes patina – in many ways, it’s what you’d call a 10 paces car, but it’s mechanically spot-on and solid in all the right places, with a refurbished interior. It has been restored during its life, albeit many years ago, and the good news here is that it is mostly solid and in good structural order where it matters. It’s an old-fashioned but charming vehicle that is brimming with character and has a wonderful patina about it.
The History and Paperwork
- UK V5C
- Registered in 1949
- There is a file of many historical invoices
- Copy of 1989 Classic Cars magazine, in which this car features
- Invoices from current ownership including new core plugs and rear brake cylinders
The Condition
- Solid, straight and original example
- Restored many years ago
- Solid chassis with no evidence of structural work needed
- Various areas of paint crazing, split paintwork and microblistering
- Some rust spots to rear quarters and arches
- Very good hood, recovered and trimmed in previous ownership
- All correct badges and trim in generally condition
- Interior retrimmed a few years ago and still looks great
- Rare and complete boot lid tool kit
- Smiths heater - needs reconnecting
- Valve radio – needs restoring
- Complete Black Tonneau cover
- Chrome/brightwork generally very good
- New carpets fitted during retrim
The Mechanics
- 2,267cc 4cyl
- Recent core plug replacement
- Four-speed column change transmission with overdrive
- Starts well and with very little smoke
- Stainless exhaust
- Rear springs replaced
- The vendor reports that it drives as it should and is surprisingly lively
BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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Vehicle specification
- Year 1949
- Make Sunbeam
- Model Talbot
- Colour Green
- Odometer 26,509 Miles
- Engine size 2267
Listing Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Cromer
- Location Norfolk
- Country United Kingdom
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