Registration: BH 1319

Chassis Number: 3441

Engine Number: 3457

Odometer reading

Although comparatively late on the scene in motor car manufacture, the Wolverhampton-based Sunbeam factory quickly established a fine reputation alongside Lanchester, Wolseley, Austin and Daimler at the heart of the escalating Midlands-based motor industry. The 12/16 hp model of the Edwardian era was conventional in all respects, with a sturdy, four cylinder and side valve power unit, displacing 2,413cc and rated at 15.9hp. Final drive was via a four-speed gate change gearbox with worm drive rear axle, and 12/16 hp models generally carried elegant factory coachwork which was offered in tourer, two-seater, landaulette and cabriolet versions. BH 1319 was purchased by our vendor in 2011 and this elegant tourer had spent the preceding 37 years in a private museum collection. Its early history is not recorded however the registration number suggests first registration in Buckinghamshire and a dashboard plaque suggest it was original supplied by F. Parker, Motor Dealers, of 57 High Street, Slough. VCC dating certificate no.94 confirms that this original delivery took place in 1911. Its known early history commences in post-war years when it was acquired by Wing Commander Malcolm Anderson of Bourne End, Bucks, in November 1946. Anderson was to retain the car until 1952, taking part in the VSCC Eastbourne Rally and Concours d' ‰l gance in March 1947 and VCC events in 1947 and 1948. Three subsequent owners are recorded in Putney, Rugby and Kilsby before the car is recorded in the ownership of well-known Nuneaton collector, Reg Parker, in 1970. During his ownership it was photographed and illustrated in Peter Hugo's book, Private Motor Car Collections of Great Britain, published in 1973. This car is one of the earliest and most original 12/16s and it presents extremely well in cream with green leather upholstery. The car sits on 815 x 105mm wheels and tyres with a spare wheel and tyre mounted on the running board, a further spare wheel is offered with a suitable wheel spanner. A two gallon petrol can sits on the nearside running board. This four speed car has a Rotax switch panel with volt meter and ammeter and a Stewart speedometer. This impressive vehicle has been sensitively recommissioned by JC engineering with some concessions for modern driving, these include a concealed electric starter, CAV electric headlamps and H and B electric side lamps. In addition to this work the current owner has spent nearly £30,000 on BH 1319, the list of works include a new radiator, new roof frame and cover, new clutch and over £9,000 on a rear axle upgrade. This 1911 Sunbeam is presented to auction with an interesting history file with correspondence and invoices from the 1940s and 50s, several old MoT test certificates and a V5C registration document.