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Sunbeam Rapier

Series I

Sunbeam Rapier I

Production

19551958

7477 products.

Body style (s)

Lounge 2-door

Engine (s)

1390 cc overhead valve Straight-4

Wheelbase

96 in (2,400 mm)

Length

160 in (4,100 mm)

Width

60 in (1,500 mm)

Height

57 in (1,400 mm)

Rapier Series I was a car that quite generally been well received by the motoring press. Available in a range of attractive two-tone colors are typical of the time, it boasted the steering gear change column, leather trim and an overdrive as standard equipment. Vinyl has an option in the United Kingdom and the norm in the territories for the export of some. Rapier bodies were built by Pressed Steel, Thrupp & Maberly destinations north of London where they were painted and trimmed, and shipped again at the assembly plant Rootes Ryton-on-Dunsmore, near Coventry where the engines, transmission and delivery devices were equipped! This complex situation has persisted until the end of 1963, when the series IV was introduced.

The Rapier of 1390 cc was essentially the same as that fitted to the Hillman Minx, but with a higher compression ratio (8:1 instead of 7:1), a Zenith carburetor 36 DIF and revised intake and exhaust. In this point form 62.5 hp (46.6 kW) at 5000 rpm. A change in column four speed transmission with overdrive with the third and last was included in the price as a standard feature.

Rapier although performance was moderated by the standards of his time and his salary was considered excellent, it soon became apparent that this was not powerful enough. In October 1956, directly following the experience in rallying international department Rootes celebrates competition the Rapier was equipped with the updated R67 engine on which Stromberg carburetor was replaced by two Zenith carburetors WIP 36 on a new manifold admission. This engine produces 67.5 hp (50.3 kW) at 5000 rpm, the effect was to reduce the time of the Rapier of about 0-60 mph 1 second and increase his speed of 3 km / h (4.8 km / h).

The British Motor magazine tested a Series I, dual carburetor, living in 1957 recording a top speed of 85.7 mph (137.9 km / h) and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (97 km / h) in 20.9 seconds and fuel consumption of 30.5 miles per imperial gallon (9.26 L/100 km 25.4 mpg U.S.). The test car, including costs 1043 tax 348.

In competition, a rapier driven by Peter Harper finished fifth in the Rally Monte Carlo 1958.

Only 7477 units were produced in this initial version of the Sunbeam Rapier. She was abandoned in 1958 with the introduction of the Series II version.

Series II

II Sunbeam Rapier

Production

19581959

15,151 products.

Body (s)

2 door sedan, convertible coup

Engine (s)

1494 cc overhead valve Straight-4

The Sunbeam Rapier Series II was announced Feb. 6, 1958, Available in hardtop and convertible forms, it was a great improvement over the Series I In a gesture indicative of today launching new vehicles, Rootes arranged for nine new cars in Monte Carlo for the press to try to end the rally of Monte Carlo (where Peter Harper came 5th overall in a series of works prepared I).

The Sunbeam Rapier Series II introduced the now famous form Rapier. Although changes origin in the design department Rootes, they strengthened the link to Studebakers Loewy designed, Series II looked remarkably like a shortened version Studebaker Golden Hawk!

The traditional calendar was reintroduced Sunbeam, although shortened and widened. It was impossible to conceal the fact that the car was originally designed with a horizontal grid, so the space left by the adoption of the grid was Sunbeam filled with horizontal side grilles. The two-tone body schema lowest in the series I was abandoned in favor of a full length zip off the same color as the roof, but the most surprising change was the appearance on the rear fenders pronounced fins.

Inside the Series II was little changed from that of series I, except that the ground speed column change replaced the unpopular change. This change, developed on the series of works that I rally cars, was an immediate success. To reduce costs, leather upholstery, standard on the Series I, was abandoned in favor of vinyl and has become an overdrive option costs.

Most great improvement in set II as was its new engine. Referred to for obvious reasons Rallymaster that he had an increased capacity of 1494 cc. The increase in capacity combined with a compression ratio higher 8.5:1 and greater intake and exhaust to increase power to 73 hp (54 kW) at 5200 rpm. Autocar quoted top speed of 91 mph (146 kmh) with a 0-60 mph time of 20.2 seconds. Also as a direct result of the experiment competition, Series II was fitted with larger front brakes and steering gear recirculating ball instead of the box, the worm rather vague and nut series I.

Series II was abandoned in favor of the Series III in 1959, after 15,151 units (hardtop and convertible) was constructed.

Series III

Rapier III Sunbeam

Production

19591961

15.368 occurred.

Body (s)

2 door sedan, convertible coup

Engine (s)

1494 cc overhead valve Straight-4

Regarded by many as the Sunbeam Rapier Ultimately, the Series III was introduced in September 1959. Rootes made subtle changes to the body which individually have was negligible, but when combined, significantly altered his appearance.

For example, the number of horizontal bars in each side screens has been increased from three to four. The boot lid acquired a number plate recess oblong and circle the place of the box cars earlier. The most striking change was the redesigned flash side, now narrower and lower side the car with the script Rapier on its rear end. Change the more subtle, however, was a reduction in the thickness of the windscreen pillars and a lowering of the line to give to scuttle an increase of 20% area of the windshield.

The interior of the Series III changes are striking. Rootes stylists completely redesigned seats and interior panels and specified that they are carved from a single color, The high quality vinyl with contrasting piping. For the first time, deep pile carpets have been fitted as standard in the foot-well (previous versions had rubber mats). The buttons on the steering wheel and switches are black plastic instead of beige. The most striking change, however, was the table edge. Instead of metal and plastic stuffed in cars earlier, the dashboard was covered in walnut veneer topped by a cylinder padded crash and held a full range of instruments to deal black Jaeger Columbia.

Mechanically Series III has benefited from the design of the Sunbeam Alpine sports car with which it shares its engine. Although the displacement of the engine was still 1494 cc, it was equipped with an aluminum cylinder head ports to eight new cylinder with a compression ratio increased and redesigned valves and used a new sport camshaft. The dual carburetor Zenith Series II remained, but were mounted on a water inlet manifold heated again. The result of these changes was an increase in power from 5 hp (4 kW) to 78 hp (58 kW) at 5400 rpm.

Gearbox changes included higher ratios of second, third and last, and a reduction in the angle of movement of the shifter to to travel shorter lever and smoothly changes. New front disc brakes considerably improved the braking capacity Rapier and expanded its route before give greater stability and improved handling.

A lounge with overdrive was tested by British magazine The Motor in 1960 and had a top speed of 91.7 mph (147.6 kmh) and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 kph) in 16.6 seconds. A fuel consumption of 29.5 miles per imperial gallon (9.58 L/100 km 24.6 mpg U.S.) was recorded. The test car cost 1045 including taxes.

Series III, 15,368 units were built (hardtop and convertible) has been replaced the Series III in April 1961.

Series IIIA

Sunbeam Rapier IIIA

Production

19611963

17,354 products.

Body (s)

2 door sedan, convertible coup

Engine (s)

1592 cc overhead valve Straight-4

It was inevitable that when the Sunbeam Alpine Series II has been announced with an engine of 1592 cc, it would not be long before a similar propulsion Rapier appeared. Indeed, 20 April 1961, the series was announced IIIA.

External and internal series III is identical to the Series III. The improvements were intended only to improve the durability of the car. At To this end, the engine capacity was increased to 1592 cc and a more rigid crankshaft equipped. To increase reliability, crank up larger diameter rod bearings which called for changes to the connection rods and piston pins. oil pumps and water changes done the engine change. Consequently, the power output increased by 78 hp (58 kW) at 80.25 hp (59.84 kilowatts) at 5100 rpm and torque increased by 84 lbft (114 Nm) 3500 rpm at 88.2 ftlbf (119.6 Nm) at 3900 rpm.

In addition, the series included many changes IIIA details increased as a front bar anti-roll diameter which greatly improved handling, a redesigned bell housing clutch, a clutch assembly revised 9 springs with pressure instead of 6 and a redesigned air cleaner assembly. The interior of the car with an air heating costs, so far only available at extra cost, has become a standard accessory. All these changes combined to make the series III subtly different from its predecessor and Sunbeam Rapier give a new lease of life in the showroom.

The maximum speed for IIIA series is less than the Series III to 90 mph (140 kmh). It also took longer than the Series III to reach 60 mph (19.3 seconds) but its engine is much more durable.

In mid 1963, the Series III convertible was dropped, but the hardtop persevered until October 1963 when it was replaced by the Series IV. When production ceased Series III, 17,354 units were constructed.

Series IV

Sunbeam Rapier IV

Production

19631965

9700 products.

Body (s)

2-door lounge

Engine (s)

1592 cc overhead valve Straight-4

Towards the end of 1963, Rootes were laid down the Rapier. It was no longer the pillar of Rootes Competition Department had conducted its because competitive effort at Hillman Imp and Sunbeam Tiger. In fact, a whole new Series IV Rapier was designed, built and prototype testing is completed, then the Rootes Group has changed its mind! The new Series IV Rapier became the Mark I Humber Sceptre and the former Rapier Series IIIA was redesigned I hope to give it new life as a touring sedan, rather than a sports coupe.

The difference The most obvious is the change to 13 inches (330 mm) wheels together with the rest of Rootes' Light Car range. This meant that the beautiful but stubborn alloy steel Wheel steel Rapiers past have been replaced by plugs Rootes corporate hub and finishing of the rim. At the front, the car has been completely redesigned to make smarter and more up-to-date. A new front door is look lower and flatter and the front fenders were modified to accept extensions grids alloy body and side marker lights with amber turn indicators. Sunbeam traditional grille, already highly stylized for Series II, was further modified to yield a smaller, more square in shape with a pronounced convex profile. New wheels were equipped with projector, items actually Sunbeam Alpine Chrome but the Rapier, and a new front bumper using the same shape and profile as the rest of the Light Car range. At the rear, a new number plate full width base appeared with a new bumper Light range of cars. To give a more open on the side frames were removed from the side windows. Finally, small badges equipped on the bottom of each front fender and trunk lid on each car must be proclaimed a "series IV.

Inside, a new momentum, still walnut veneer, but with the glove raised in the dashboard itself has allowed the inclusion of an appropriate set of shelves on each side of the car. Instrumentation and controls were much as before, except that the heating switches and ashtray are now housed in a console in front of the shifter. To facilitate comfort the driver, an adjustable steering column was fitted with new front seats that has allowed more longitudinal adjustment for the first time included setting the record.

In common with the rest of the Light Car range, the suspension before the Rapier was re-designed to replace the kingpin half of each side of the car with a sealed for life ball. All other suspension joints are sealed for now is life or have been banded rubber eliminating all points of grease on the car. Overall gearing has been adjusted to compensate for the small wheels and discs front brake has been reduced in size so they fit in the wheels. A servo-brakes became standard and spring and shock absorbers were fitted to give a smoother ride. A diaphragm clutch and new clutch master cylinder clutch has a lighter and more progressive.

The engine of 1592 cc Series IIIA was unchanged but the dual carburetor Zenith has finally yielded to a single twin choke Solex in 32PAIA the interests of utility. The effect of the new carburettor has been to increase power to 84 hp (63 kW) and torque to 91 lbft (123 Nm) at 3500 rpm.

In October 1964, with the rest of the Light Car range, Series IV received the new box Rootes Speed synchronized all, a change that coincided with the introduction of a new computer chassis numbering system.

The driving test in April 1964 gave the maximum speed of the Series IV Rapier as 91 mph (146 kmh) and his time 0-60 mph in 17 seconds.

When production of the Series IV ceased in 1965, 9700 units were built.

V series

Sunbeam Rapier V

Production

19651967

3759 products.

Body style (s)

2-room door

Engine (s)

1725 cc overhead valve Straight-4

Pending the completion of the new Rapier Fastback, Rootes decided to have a longer go to update the beloved old Sunbeam Rapier. In September 1965 they introduced the V series version that looked exactly like the Series IV in and with the exception of badges wings and boot now that said "1725", revealing the presence of an important new engine.

Rootes extensively redesigned their famous former four-cylinder engine to increase its capacity of 1725 cc. Along the way he had acquired five new crankshaft bearings key, which makes the unit stronger and smoother. This was the powerful engine that powers the V-Series Rapier and be developed for many subsequent models.

To further upgrade the car, they changed its polarity from positive to negative ground and equipped with a alternator in place of the dynamo. They also developed a new dual exhaust system so that the new engine could breathe more easily.

The effect of these changes was to increase the maximum speed of 95 mph to Rapier (153 kph) and reduce his time of rest to 60 mph (97 kph) to 14.1 seconds. Unfortunately, despite all its good features, the V series simply did not sell. When it was discontinued in June 1967, only 3,759 units were built, making it the rarest of all the "Series" Sunbeam Rapiers.

Sunbeam Rapier Fastback coup

Main article: Rootes Arrow

Sunbeam Rapier Fastback

Production

19671976

46.204 products, including the Alps and H120.

Body style (s)

2-room door

Engine (s)

1725 cc overhead valve Straight-4

In 1967 Rootes of "Arrow" Beach was ready. Famous for the Hillman Hunter, the range also included a new generation of Sunbeam Rapiers, with agencies and a fastback coup sporting image. As models of the series, it was a hardtop style without pillar.

Rapier Fastback or the Arrow, as it came to be known, launched in October 1967, was a smart move to four seats based on the chassis of the Hillman Hunter estate. It was told to wear a resemblance to the contemporary Plymouth Barracuda, a product of Chrysler, which now had a considerable stake in Rootes. However, stylist Roy Rapier Axis insisted that this was not the case. Although the Rapier used tail lights and rear valance succession Hunter, the rest of her superstructure was unique.

The Rapier used the four-cylinder Rootes, 5-1725 bearing DC motor, which was slightly tilted to the right to allow a lower hood line, in common with other models Arrow. With his twin Stromberg carburetors 150cd engine produces 88 horsepower (Net) at 5200 rpm. Overdrive is standard with manual transmission, and Borg-Warner automatic transmission is optional.

The Rapier Fastback continued almost unchanged until 1976, when it was discontinued without replacement. During his life, he served as the basis for more powerful Sunbeam Rapier H120, introduced in October 1968 and identified by its boot lid spoiler and polished rim covers: he shared his genius Holbay-tuned 110 hp engine (with carburetors Weber double) Hillman Hunter GLS with. The Rapier was also the basis for a little less expensive but equally valid, a single carburetor Sunbeam Alpine Fastback introduced in October 1969. Rapier chassis (the chassis but not real estate) was also used in the Humber Sceptre, Hillman and Hillman Hunter GT models GT range Arrow.

Between 1967 and 1969, the Rapier was built at Ryton-on-Dunsmore, but from 1969 until his death in 1976, it was built at the factory in Linwood in Scotland Imp. In total, 46,204 units were built (including Rapier, H120 and versions Alpine).

Speed of the Rapier was 103 mph (166 kph) and could reach 60 mph (97 kph) to rest, 12.8 seconds. United States, it has been marketed under the name Sunbeam Alpine GT.

Sunbeam Alpine Fastback coup

Sunbeam Alpine Fastback coup

The Sunbeam Alpine Fastback, introduced for 1970 was basically a Rapier with a simplified specification, developed to fill a gap in the range of Arrow above the Singer Vogue. He used the same engine of 1725 cc as the Hillman Hunter, which, with a single carburetor Stromberg 150cd, developed 74 hp (net) at 5500 rpm. Overdrive is an option on cars with manual transmission or you may Borg-Warner automatic transmission.

The Alps, so well equipped, was less sporty style of the Rapier. He had a wooden scoreboard with less instruments, instead of the Rapier hooded plastic one, and the wood instead of metal on the transmission tunnel; subjectively look more luxurious and non- less sporty. There were also different wheel trims, no threshold aluminum finish (not the polish of the H120) and no vinyl on its C-pillars Above all, it was significantly cheaper than the Rapier.

Speed of the Alpine was 94 mph (151 kph) and could reach 60 mph (97 km / h) from rest in 14.6 seconds.

The Alpine Fastback was abandoned in 1975, before the Rapier and H120.

Sunbeam Rapier H120

Sunbeam Rapier Fastback coup H120

To produce a car even faster the Fastback Rapier, Rootes has developed the H120. Based on the Rapier, the H120 has a more powerful 1725 cc engine specially developed by the engines Holbay of Racing. It produced 108 hp (gross) at 5200 rpm and was equipped with a special cylinder head, camshaft, high pressure, listening long, in four branches of the exhaust manifold, distributor and two special 40DCOE Weber carburetors. To improve the experience driving, the H120 has a gearbox with close ratio, heavy overdrive and a high ratio rear axle. Automatic transmission is not an option.

To add to its sporty image, the H120 has been given wider wheels Rostyle, flashes side wide, polished rim covers, a grille matte black and a trunk lid incorporates a new Ducted spoiler. To top it off, badges H120 appeared on the front wings and the center of the grid.

Speed of the H120 is 109 mph (175 kph) and could reach 60 mph (97 km / h) to the status quo in a shade over 10 seconds.

The H120 has been abandoned with the Rapier Fastback in 1976.

External Links

Sunbeam Rapier Owners Club

Association of Rootes Car Clubs

Rootes Archive Centre Trust

References

^ Abc "car to testbed: 1962 Sunbeam Rapier IIIA "Coach flight 126 (NBR 3700): pages 66-67 that day, January 12, 1967 ...

^ Abcdefg Robson, G. (2006). AZ of British Cars 1945-1980. Devon, UK: Herridge Books. ISBN 1-9541063-9-3.

^ abcde "The Rapier Sunbeam. "Engine. March 20, 1957.

^ "The Sunbeam Rapier III. The engine. February 16, 1960.

^ abc "Buy Used: Sunbeam Rapier / Alpine. Autocar flight 144 (nbr 4127): pages 70 to 72. To date, 13 December 1975.

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