Although comparatively late on the scene in motor car manufacture, the Wolverhampton-based Sunbeam factory quickly established a fine reputation alongside Lanchester, Wolseley, Austin and Daimler at the heart of the escalating Midlands-based motor industry.

The 12/16 hp model of the Edwardian era was conventional in all respects, with a sturdy, four cylinder, side valve power unit, gate change gearbox, shaft drive and generally carried elegant factory coachwork which was offered in tourer, two seater, landaulette and cabriolet versions.

A glance down the Veteran Car Club list of surviving Sunbeam 12/16’s reads like the “squirearchy” of that club, with active rally goers predominant, suggesting the practicality of the 12/16 hp model for motoring events.

This car joined the Ward Brothers’ Collection from New South Wales in Australia.

It had previously been found in 1967, abandoned in an orange orchard at Niagra Park, near Gosford, then in the ownership of a Mr Curtis.

It was restore...