Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA
A stylish, rally-proven Audax coupe with American flair and British grit.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 19.3 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$22k
About the Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA
The Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA represents the mechanical peak of the 'Audax' generation, introducing the 1.6-litre engine from the Sunbeam Alpine for improved durability. Styled with input from the Raymond Loewy organisation, its pillarless hardtop profile and subtle tail fins mirrored contemporary American trends while maintaining a compact British footprint. It was a formidable competitor in international rallying, famously winning the RAC Rally and achieving class victories at Monte Carlo. Today, it is prized for its robust mechanicals, elegant walnut-veneered interior, and its status as one of the most sophisticated sporting saloons of the early 1960s.
Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA specs
The Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 119 Nm (88 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 19.3 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Sunbeam |
|---|---|
| Model | Rapier |
| Generation | Series IIIA |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1961–1963 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 17,354 built |
| Original price | About $2,500 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,592 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 5,100 rpm |
| Torque | 119 Nm (88 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 19.3 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,054 kg (2,324 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 76 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 Rapier Series IIIA worth?
A typical Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $22,000 (about £4,800 – £16,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,500.
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 Rapier Series IIIA rarity in CarSpot
The Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIA is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 43 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 Rapier Series IIIA fun facts
- The Rapier's styling was heavily influenced by the 1953 Studebaker Starliner, a result of the Rootes Group's consultation with Raymond Loewy.
- The Series IIIA was the first Rapier to feature a standard fresh-air heater, which was previously a cost option.
- Despite being marketed as a sports car, the Series IIIA was actually slightly slower than the Series III due to engine changes focused on long-term reliability.