Description

1956 Sunbeam-Talbot 90 Supreme MkIII

A lovely example; overdrive; original upholstery; driven to the sale; complete with tool kit

The first Rootes design of the post-war era, the Sunbeam-Talbot 90 was launched in 1948 and featured a modified pre-war 2-litre chassis and an overhead valve version of the 2-litre Humber Hawk engine.

In 1950 the car was much improved in MkII form with a new cruciform chassis frame, independent front suspension, better brakes and an enlarged 2,267cc 70bhp engine. Stirling Moss proved the ability of the new car by coming second overall in the 1952 Monte Carlo Rally, while works entries walked off with the Team Prize in the French Alpine Rally later in the year.

In 1952 the car was further upgraded to MkIIA spec now with 77bhp and in 1954 came the best model of all, the 80bhp Sunbeam 90 MkIII, easily distinguished by the three portholes on either side of the bonnet. Blessed with fine handling for its day with spirited acceleration, a top speed of almost 100mph and bullet-proof reliability, it made for a very sporting saloon and won the Alpine Rally outright in 1955.

This handsome 1956 MkIII Supreme was purchased by the vendor in 2012 and has proved both reliable and great fun to drive. In fine order when he bought it, he has had to do little to the car to keep it up to scratch bar regular maintenance and servicing.

It has been well repainted at some time in the past and the interior is a joy to behold, the original leather remaining in lovely usable condition.

Complete with overdrive, the vendor reported a comfy 70mph cruise on the way to the sale, making this elegant and distinctive sports saloon a most usable classic on today’s busy roads. If a ‘50s sports saloon is on your radar, come and have a look at this one – it is the nicest we have seen for a long time.

For more information – contact matthew.parkin@brightwells.com