Lot details
Registration No: AVM 391
Chassis No: 61935
Mot Expiry: Oct 2009

Notable as the last Sunbeam model to be designed before the Wolverhampton concern became part of the Rootes Group, the Dawn was introduced in 1934. Combining the quality and craftsmanship for which Sunbeam was famous with a fair degree of innovation, the newcomer deserved to succeed. Based on a sturdy chassis equipped with independent transverse-leaf front suspension, a well located `live' rear axle and four-wheel drum brakes, the saloon was powered by a 1627cc OHV inline four-cylinder allied to four-speed pre-selector transmission (though, later cars used a conventional manual gearbox). Developing some 49bhp @ 4,200 rpm, its unusual alloy block / cast-iron cylinder head engine gave class competitive performance. However, a list price of £485 made the Dawn considerably more expensive than most rivals and just 575 had been sold by the time production ceased in 1935.

Finished in black with brown upholstery, this particular example was extensively restored by its last but one keeper during the mid 1980s. While more recent work has included an engine overhaul by Beech Hill Garage of Reading (2001) and the refurbishment of its four-speed manual gearbox. Beautifully trimmed with pleated leather to the seats and door panels and inlaid marquetry to the wooden door cappings, the Dawn is said to accommodate the vendor's 6ft 1in frame with ease. Used on occasion for his fifty-mile commute to work, the Sunbeam will apparently maintain a steady 55-60mph on the motorway without feeling strained. Despite benefiting from attention to its exhaust manifold, water pump and charging system during the current ownership, he feels that "attending to a few jobs over the winter will produce a superb yet usable post-vintage sports saloon for next spring". Elegant, understated and rare, this lovely Sunbeam Dawn is worthy of close inspection.