Sunbeam Alpine Series II
The sophisticated British roadster that gave James Bond his first cinematic drive.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.6 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$35k
About the Sunbeam Alpine Series II
The Sunbeam Alpine Series II introduced a larger 1.6-litre engine and revised rear suspension to the Raymond Loewy-influenced roadster. Designed primarily for the American market, it offered a level of refinement and weather protection—including wind-up windows—that was rare among its spartan British contemporaries. While less aggressive than a Triumph or MG, its stiff monocoque chassis and disc brakes provided a balanced, touring-oriented driving experience. It holds a unique place in pop culture as the first car driven by Sean Connery's James Bond in the 1962 film Dr. No.
Sunbeam Alpine Series II specs
The Sunbeam Alpine Series II produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.6 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (159 km/h).
| Make | Sunbeam |
|---|---|
| Model | Alpine |
| Generation | Series II |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1960–1963 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 19,956 built |
| Original price | About $2,600 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,592 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.6 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (159 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 969 kg (2,136 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 83 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Sunbeam Alpine Series II worth?
A typical Sunbeam Alpine Series II is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $35,000 (about £9,500 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Sunbeam Alpine Series II rarity in CarSpot
The Sunbeam Alpine Series II is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Sunbeam Alpine Series II fun facts
- The Series II Alpine was the first car ever driven by James Bond on screen, appearing in a Lake Blue finish in the 1962 film Dr. No.
- A specially prepared Sunbeam Alpine won the prestigious Index of Thermal Efficiency at the 1961 24 Hours of Le Mans.
- The Alpine's chassis was actually based on the floorpan of the Hillman Husky, a short-wheelbase estate car from the Rootes Group.