Lot details
Registration No: WM 3965
Chassis No: 2439K
Mot Expiry: June 2005

This Sunbeam first left the Wolverhampton works in 1929, originally being a Weymann saloon, which, during WW2, was driven by a succession of RAF personnel. When acquired by the vendor in 1994 as a rolling chassis, the body had been removed. A complete rebuild was then undertaken with every mechanical and electrical item overhauled.

The 20.9hp 6-cylinder engine of 2816cc capacity was completely rebuilt by specialist Bill Barrott with raised compression, triple downdraught Solexes fitted to boost performance, radiator core renewed and electric fan added to improve cooling. Transmission is still by 4-speed close-ratio manual gearbox with 4.5 crown wheel and pinion.

An elegant new tourer body, built by John Selway to provide open accommodation for four, was finished in black with half-fabric, also in black, and all front and rear lamps restored or replaced. A most attractive dashboard was used with correct instrumentation including a 1929-dated and therefore period-correct battery test meter. The interior was treated to a black leather retrim with grey Wilton carpets piped in grey leather. Hood and sidescreens were renewed, rear passengers having the option of a detachable rear screen of lightweight construction.

In 2002, this 1920s Sunbeam successfully completed a 2000 miles round-trip to Switzerland to take part in the Klausen hill climb, where it won a class award. The 4893 miles displayed when entered is claimed by the vendor to be the total mileage since completion of the rebuild which is claimed to have cost circa £52,000.