1913 Sunbeam 12/16 Four Seat Tourer Sporting Model

From a fine private collection, we are pleased to offer this handsome Edwardian Sunbeam. Regarded for their high quality of engineering, similar Sunbeams of the era would have seen service in the Great War, perhaps taking officers to the Front, often in unbelievably awful conditions. Sunbeam produced large numbers of staff cars and ambulances up until 1915, most of which were based on the 16hp chassis.

This particular Sporting Model boasts narrow coachwork, a parallel bonnet and an outside gear lever and handbrake. It was actually discovered in the peace of Australia in the 1970s, minus its coachwork; apart from the lack of body, the motor car was complete albeit in poor condition with a rusted chassis. A full restoration commenced, using an original factory Sporting Tourer body assembly obtained from another Sunbeam and restored by an Australian cabinet maker and craftsman. It was refurbished to an exceptional standard in charcoal grey with black mudguards and detailed with red coachlines.

The motor car was equipped with new buttoned upholstery and new weather equipment and the road wheels were rebuilt and fitted with new tyres. The wiring and electrics were also renewed and the Rotax brass headlamps have been beautifully refurbished.

It is understood that the Sunbeam had covered just a small number of miles, which assisted with the restoration and meant that the mechanical rebuild was relatively straight forward. We are told that the engine was stripped, inspected and refurbished and the complete transmission was overhauled, as were the braking, steering and suspension systems.

The work was carried out over an eight year period by the specialist Martin Bennett, with the final work completed in the 1990s, overseen by the then owner.

The current custodian bought the Sunbeam from Australia in 2011 and has clearly cared for it well since. It is in stunning condition and whilst it has not covered a great mileage since the restoration, when used for trips out the 12/16 has given sprightly, reliable and enjoyable performance. It is worth noting that the vendor has fitted a self-starter motor for ease of use.

The history file contains the starting instructions and procedure, technical information, correspondence, construction details, lubrication and driving information and the V5C registration certificate.

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