1966 Sunbeam Rapier

The Sunbeam Rapier Series IV and Series V are four-seater coupes produced from 1963 to 1967.

The Rootes Group originally planned to replace the Sunbeam Rapier Series IIIa with a 4-door sports saloon derived from the Hillman Super Minx. By 1963 it was decided that this new car would be badged as the Humber Sceptre while the Rapier’s 2-door 4-seater coachwork would be facelifted. The 1.6-litre S4 OHV engine, front coil and wishbones with rear semi-elliptic leaf springs and a live axle and 4-speed transmission were retained, as were rear drums, but there were now 13-inch wheels, servo assistance for the brakes with larger front discs, plus improved spring and damper settings. A single twin-choke Solex 32PAIA carburettor replaced the SIIIa’s twin Zeniths.

The Rapier Series IV was introduced in October 1963 and could be distinguished from its predecessors via amber front indicators, a modified front grille, and a new bonnet. The steering column and front seat backrests were now adjustable and the maximum speed was 91mph with 0-60 in 17 seconds. The Series IV was priced at £876 12s 1d and the options list included overdrive and seatbelts. A July 1964 Autocar test concluded that the Rapier was ‘an extremely likable car’.

In October 1964 the Sunbeam Rapier gained an all-synchromesh gearbox and 11 months later the Series IV was replaced by the Series V, which was powered by Rootes’ five bearing 1.7-litre engine. Other improvements included an alternator and a twin-pipe exhaust system. The price was now £907 16s 3d and the Series V’s top speed was 95mph with 0-60 happening in 14.1 seconds. In November 1966 Motor found the Rapier to be ‘eleven years old and still competitive’.

The Series V Rapier was replaced by the Arrow-Series Rapier fastback in June 1967.

The Series IV was powered by a 1,592cc S4 OHV unit while the Series V had a 1,725cc S4 OHV engine. Both Rapiers had 4-speed unit transmission with optional Laycock-de-Normanville overdrive; early Series IVs have no synchromesh on first gear.

The Series IV and Series V Rapiers are prime examples of a popular model to enter its final years with dignity. The ride is softer than on earlier models and this, combined with the more comfortable interior, makes the later Sunbeams highly agreeable touring cars.

A Sunbeam Rapier with a whining transmission - or, worse, one that jumps out of gear – might be in need of an expensive gearbox rebuild. Engines can be prone to oil leaks.

The last two incarnations of the Rapier may have looked redolent of the previous decade but they still provided highly entertaining, and even refined transport.

The Sunbeam Rapier Series IV and Series V competed against the Ford Cortina GT Mk.1 and Mk.2, the MG Magnette Mk. IV, the Vauxhall FB and FC VX 4/90, the Riley One Point Five and the Triumph Vitesse 6 and 2-Litre.