THE RACE RETRO COLLECTORS’ & COMPETITION CAR SALE 23rd & 24th February 2024

+ buyers premium of 12.5% plus VAT (15% incl VAT) on the first £300,000 of the hammer and 10% plus VAT (12% incl VAT) thereafter 45 Registration: TBA Chassis No.: B91089520DHR0 Estimate: £35,000 - £40,000 Specialist: Rob Hubbard Telephone No: 07775 511825 Lot 736 1962 Sunbeam Harrington Le Mans Purchased new by esteemed club racer and Scotsman, John Melvin, in 1962, this car was originally red in colour and registered 2 EGG. It was delivered just in time to be put through its paces in the International Scottish Rally in June of that year. Accompanied by Melvin’s usual co-driver, a Mr. W Gordon Bennett, the pair set off on the rally, however failed to finish after a rather deep Scottish water splash soaked the cars electrics, forcing them to retire. This event was merely a test for John, whose ambition it was to enter the 1962 RAC Rally in November, and the car was back to full running condition in no time and the two prepared for the rally. Then, just days before the event, co-driver Gordon Bennett was force to withdraw due to a death in the family, leaving John to find a new co-driver. Friend and motor journalist, Graham Gauld, duly stepped in and off they set for the start in Blackpool. The full and interesting story can be seen on our website. The car then ‘disappeared’ until it surfaced in Ireland in the 1970s, and was later bought by George McWaters who set about reviving the car, which had become very tired. The colour was changed to Forest Green and the car was fitted with an uprated engine bored out to 2-litres with twin 40DCOE Weber carburettors, an alloy cylinder head converted to unleaded along with a high-capacity alloy radiator. Uprated brake callipers were also fitted along with adjustable rear shock absorbers, Minilite-style alloys and a new stainless fuel tank. He also re-trimmed the original Harrington interior in Biscuit with green piping and green wool carpets and fitted a wood-rimmed steering wheel. In September 2023, the Harrington was recommissioned following a period of inactivity, including new fuel and hoses, carbs stripped and cleaned, oil and filter change, checked brakes etc. and was treated to a rolling road Crypton tune at Mech Repairs, Cheltenham, with the invoice for £1,698 on file. Consequently, only the minimum fettling would be required by a new owner prior to full on-road/rally/ tours use. 2 EGG is steeped in interesting history and surely any new owner would be proud to share the tales of this car’s past. Similarly, it would be perfect for someone wanting to revive its rallying/racing past, as the Sunbeam Harrington Le Mans are well known for racing in period, with the sister car MEL 63 even taking part in the fabled Goodwood Tourist Trophy of 1962. The car has an MOT valid until November 2024, is HPI-clear and eligible for free historic road tax. It’s supplied with two history folders containing much useful information including model guides and specifications etc. The old-style green registration log book is also present as well as a letter from the Sunbeam Harrington Le Mans register validating the car’s historical importance, a written account of its early competition years by the co-driver Graham Gould and correspondence with Clive Harrington’s great grandson. A rare car today as very few right-hand drive Sunbeams Harrington Le Mans remain, this is a great opportunity to purchase a road/competition car that can be enjoyed and used as it was intended. A very affordable entry into the world of historic motorsport, and an opportunity to own an important part of British motoring history. Please note registration 2EGG is not part of the sale. Very recently recommissioned, this rare Sunbeam Harrington Le Mans has a fascinating competition history and would be welcome at many prestigious motorsport events. More Details Lot 736 Bid On Lot 736