SUNBEAM RAPIER

2-door 5-seater coupé.

Based on the Hillman Hunter underpan, suspension and running gear, the fastback shell was special, and rather like Plymouth's Barracuda (there were corporate connections...). More than 100mph available, with overdrive on most examples (a few automatic). Soggy handling, but refined, high-geared comfort, with adjustable column and full instrument range. Mechanically, little-developed over the years, though trim and furnishing changed in detail. Under-rated even today.