One early fifties Rootes advertisement featured golfers acknowledging their latest transport could boast ‘the drive of your life’. They were admiring a Sunbeam Talbot 90 mark II which was in many ways designed to propel the marque towards a more ‘sporting’ future within a works rally programme. The Drop Head Coupe from 1951 altered from the previous model with an upgraded independent front suspension whilst the engine was increased from 1944cc to 2267cc and a power improved from 64bhp to 70bhp. Variations of both saloon and convertible would be available from Rootes Coventry factory production ceased in 1956 not before winning the Alpine Rally Gold Cup in 1952,53 and 54 also taking overall victory in the Monte Carlo rally in 1955.

Country Classic Cars are very pleased to be able to offer (a commission sale) this Sunbeam Talbot 90, produced in 1951 and immediately exported by the current owner’s grandfather. Amazing to consider this car has been one family owned for over 70 years, returning to the UK in 1959 when it received its home registration, it has been in the current custodian’s name since 2002. At this time the car and associated paperwork is with us, the history file is certainly comprehensive and therefore we will concentrate on the more recent documents. There are 13 invoices in the period 2013/14 and include seat belts fitting, wheel cylinders with brake overhaul, carburettor and speedo repairs. Currently the speedo fitted to the ‘90’ shows 95646 but this is not the original unit, we suspect this was a used (with mileage) replacement and the original is with the car, it was replaced at just 14k miles. Fuel pump in 2017 and a starter motor refurb, service and carb in 2021 @ 95499. October 2022 replacement shock absorbers and anti-roll bar bushes with fuel pump.  In 2023 Sunbeam Talbot Spares restorer/motor engineer David Bamforth carried out a full engine rebuild (main & big ends, crank reground, new camshaft, clutch, timing chain with new engine and gearbox mounts) totalling over £6k. Later in 22 a full suspension overhaul was also carried out by David adding a further £1k but bringing the car up to date; it has travelled around 100 miles since.

No doubt the 90 carries an older restoration, the exterior finish is bright with little corrosion to speak of, but elements of micro blistering was noted across the paint finish. Not easy to pickup on the images but it is apparent on the bonnet, boot lid and upper panels. A scrape to the n/s rear quarter panel, light impact but the paint has cracked. The underside is in good order, solid certainly, light surface rust if any and the frame is well protected. Brightwork is all in situ, chrome generally good offering more years on show with a little tlc … the wheel rims would benefit from a re coat they carry undamaged original chrome trims and good Michelin rubber. Interior is somewhat tired but mostly retrievable, seat covers are complete and some leather care could restore most of their former glory whilst the seats appear well padded apart from the drivers base. Any new owner should consider a replacement hood on their shopping list, carpets will refresh with a clean, the dash paint is untidy, and the steering wheel carries a small crack in the Bakelite/plastic. Stylish gauges for fuel, water, volts and oil all worked correctly when tested; the later steadied at a healthy 50lbs pressure when cold.

A slight push on the starter button and the 4 cylinder bursts into life, settles quickly and ticks over smoothly with little movement. The clutch is not too heavy and once familiarised the 4 speed ‘synchro’ column change is a pleasure. Whilst we may not agree with the Rootes marketing department ‘the drive of your life’ the ST 90 does offer a memorable experience behind the wheel. It pulls with more enthusiasm than most 1950’s four seaters, comfortable in modern traffic with good brakes and plenty of feedback via the non-assisted large steering wheel. Having been kept under cover for most of the past decade we feel the drive will improve further with mileage added and this Sunbeam Talbot needs to be out on show as it certainly attracts attention. Sporting elegance, very much of the 50s this Coupe screams comfort but is no slouch, presents ample character whilst its main features are subtle; perfect for the classic owner who doesn’t follow the crowd …. very much like the convertible Sunbeam Talbot 90, an individual.

Should you require additional information please message with your email address for detailed images or a short walk-round video; we will forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as cars are often kept in secure storage and currently we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.