Its styling inspired by Raymond Loewy's Studebakers, an entirely new range of cars was introduced by the Rootes Group in the mid-1950s, the first arrival with this new look being the Sunbeam Rapier.

A two-door sports saloon, the latter was announced in 1955, in advance of its Hillman and Singer siblings.

Whitewall tyres and a chromed waistband dividing the two-tone colour scheme were obvious transatlantic influences, while the Rapier's pillar-less bodyshell and unique wind-down rear quarter window made for the ultimate in fresh-air motoring this side of a full convertible.

Styling changes, mechanical improvements and larger, more powerful engines were introduced as the Rapier progressed through Series I to V over the next ten years.

This Series III version has the 1,494cc, 73bhp engine and front disc brakes.

First registered on 7th December 1959, the car is believed to have had only two registered keepers from new.

A hand-written note on file records the fact that the current kee...