1961 Sunbeam Alpine SII

Convertible

1600cc

1961 Sunbeam Alpine SIIThis is an early Sunbeam Alpine Series II, manufactured by Rootes (England) in June 1961. Rootes aimed the Sunbeam Alpine squarely at the US market and it went through five iterations. These early ones were the most sought after due to their large rear fins (shrunk on later models), they were famous in the States as the car from the popular spy spoof television show 'Get Smart,' however the Alpine was also used by a far more famous fictional spy, when it became the first James Bond car in the 1962 film, 'Dr. No'. This is the same model as 007’s car – Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fft1l_l8vR8This Alpine is un-molested and looks very like it did when it rolled off the Bristol Siddley production line (England) during the week of June 12, 1961 (56-years ago). Its Wedgwood blue paintwork was repainted many years ago in the same colour as it rolled of the production line (paint code 53). It has its original engine (numbers match) and is a nice/usable vehicle but definitely needs some paint work; small amounts of welding on floor-pans (I have a set of newly re-manufactured floor pans); new door/windshield rubbers etc. and a soft-top if you’re looking to create a show winner.This Sunbeam has a fascinating history…Purchased new in Switzerland (1961), it’s an official left-hand drive Alpine. The first owner was an ice-skater that performed with the Ice-Capades (North American) TV show, when her European tour finished she exported the car to California where it remained in her family for 40+ years.The vehicle was subsequently purchased (2007) by the 1967 South African Rally champion (1967 Tour Natal winner, Opel) who drove the car 4,200 KM from California to Ontario where it remained dry-stored for 7 years until I acquired it approximately 6-years ago. This Sunbeam Alpine was also filmed in May 2017 for “Histoires de Chars,” a TV show chronicling interesting British cars; their owners and the vehicle’s history, the aforementioned show is due to be broadcast in 2018.The vehicle has very little visible rust (a few small holes in the floor pans), having lived the majority of its life in California. It is a long-way from being concourse condition and has a ‘shabby chic’ look. However, considering its age (56-years); celebrity history and un-molested condition it’s a great piece of automotive-art that that turns heads where ever it’s driven.The car has many new parts including stainless steel exhaust, tires, brakes etc. It’s driven occasionally in the summer months (only) and will be sold ASIS and does not include any warranty. Currently it has a faulty thermostat (overheating); I've ordered a new thermostat from Victoria & British, which will be included with the vehicle.Consider its interesting history when bidding; and the countless hours you can spend telling your friends/buddies about its celebrity history – I regularly do! JThis is a cash sale and a $500 (non returnable) deposit is required (via PayPal) within 24-hours of auction close. Buyer is responsible for collecting the car from Ontario, Canada (about 100KM from Toronto) and the car will not be released until full payment is received/cleared. Buyer is responsible for all shipping and customs costs.E-Bay is a contractual undertaking, please don’t bid if you don’t intend going through with the sale. I’m not interested in any trades; and I reserve the right to cancel the auction early if it sells elsewhere (listed in other publications)Happy bidding James Bond aficionados – Driving this Alpine will ensure you’re “Shaken, not Stirred; and Licensed to Thrill”Please don't ask me my reserve price (it’s fair & reasonable), bid for yourself and you will see if you meet the reserve priceNotes: 1) The car currently has Sunbeam Alpine S3 seats fitted, which are more bucket-shaped than the SII seats. I am including the original seats in the sale however, as per the picture, they require restoration