SUNBEAM Cars: Complete Guide, Models & Reliability (2025)

Sunbeam is a historic British automotive brand known for its diverse range of vehicles. With a total of 122 vehicles recorded, Sunbeam has made a notable impact in the automotive landscape, particularly in the UK.

The brand's most popular model is the unnamed vehicle, which accounts for 89 of the total vehicles. Other notable models include the Tourer, with 3 units, and the 16.9, 90, and S7, each with 2 units. This variety showcases Sunbeam's ability to cater to different preferences and needs within the automotive market.

In terms of fuel type, the majority of Sunbeam vehicles are petrol-powered, with a distribution of 74 petrol vehicles and an additional 48 listed as Petrol. This indicates a strong inclination towards traditional fuel sources among Sunbeam owners.

Sunbeam vehicles span several decades, with registrations dating back to 1939. The year distribution reveals a rich history, with notable numbers from the 1950s and 1960s, including 6 vehicles from 1951 and 4 from 1956. This historical context adds to the brand's charm and appeal among classic car enthusiasts.

When it comes to vehicle reliability, Sunbeam boasts an impressive MOT pass rate average of 91.4%. However, common failures have been identified, particularly in the brakes category, which accounts for 19 failures, followed by other issues such as lighting and windscreen problems.

All 122 vehicles are primarily located in Great Britain, highlighting the brand's regional significance. With a total of 244 MOT tests conducted, the data reflects a commitment to maintaining vehicle standards and safety.

While this information provides a comprehensive overview of the Sunbeam brand, please note that data accuracy may vary, and it is advisable to consult additional sources for the most current information.

Popular SUNBEAM Models

SUNBEAM has a rich history in the automotive industry, with a total of 122 vehicles recorded. Among these, the most notable model is the unnamed top model, which accounts for a significant 89 units. This model's popularity highlights the brand's enduring appeal.

Other popular SUNBEAM models include the TOURER, with 3 units, and the 16.9, 90, and S7, each with 2 units. These models showcase the diversity within the SUNBEAM lineup, catering to various preferences and needs.

In terms of fuel type, the majority of SUNBEAM vehicles are powered by petrol, with a distribution of 74 petrol vehicles and an additional 48 classified as Petrol. This indicates a strong inclination towards petrol engines among SUNBEAM owners.

When examining the year distribution of SUNBEAM vehicles, a range of models from different decades is evident. Notably, vehicles from the 1950s and 1960s are well represented, with 4 units from 1957 and 3 from 1965, among others. This historical breadth reflects the brand's long-standing presence in the market.

The average MOT pass rate for SUNBEAM vehicles stands at an impressive 91.4%. This statistic suggests that SUNBEAM cars are generally reliable and well-maintained. However, common failures have been identified, particularly in the brakes category, which accounts for 19 failures, followed by other issues such as lighting and windscreen problems.

All data presented is based on current records and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to official sources.

The reliability of Sunbeam vehicles during the MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is generally commendable, with an average pass rate of 91.4%. This statistic indicates that the majority of Sunbeam vehicles on the road meet the necessary safety and environmental standards.

Among the 122 Sunbeam vehicles tested, the most common issues leading to MOT failures are primarily related to brakes, which accounted for 19 failures. Other notable categories include miscellaneous issues (13 failures), windscreen problems (7 failures), lighting defects (7 failures), and exhaust and emissions concerns (5 failures). These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance and checks, particularly focusing on braking systems and visibility components.

In terms of vehicle distribution, the Sunbeam lineup includes a variety of models, with the top model being unspecified, followed by the Tourer, 16.9, 90, and S7, each with limited numbers of vehicles on the road. The fuel type distribution shows a predominance of petrol vehicles, with 74 classified as petrol and an additional 48 listed as Petrol, indicating a strong preference for this fuel type among Sunbeam owners.

Sunbeam vehicles span several decades, with registrations dating back to 1939. The year distribution reveals a significant number of older models, which may contribute to the common issues observed during MOT tests. Owners of vintage Sunbeam cars should be particularly vigilant about the condition of their vehicles, as age can exacerbate wear and tear.

It is essential to note that the data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may not reflect the current state of all Sunbeam vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can significantly enhance the reliability of these classic cars during MOT tests.

When considering the ownership costs of a Sunbeam vehicle, it is essential to take into account various factors, including fuel type, maintenance, and tax obligations. With a total of 122 registered vehicles, the majority of Sunbeam models are petrol-powered, with 74 vehicles using petrol and an additional 48 classified as Petrol. This distribution indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among Sunbeam owners.

In terms of age, Sunbeam vehicles span several decades, with notable registrations dating back to 1939. The year distribution shows a significant number of older models, with 6 vehicles registered in the early 1950s alone. This age factor can influence insurance premiums and maintenance costs, as older vehicles may require more frequent servicing and parts replacement.

The average MOT pass rate for Sunbeam vehicles stands at an impressive 91.4%. This statistic suggests that most owners can expect their vehicles to meet safety and emissions standards without significant issues. However, common failures have been identified, particularly in the brakes (19 failures), followed by other categories such as lighting and exhaust emissions. Understanding these common issues can help owners budget for potential repairs.

In terms of regional distribution, all 122 vehicles are registered in Great Britain, indicating a concentrated ownership base. This can affect the availability of parts and specialist services, which are crucial for maintaining older models.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on current registrations and MOT test results, and while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, figures may vary over time. Owners should always verify the latest information regarding tax rates and ownership costs specific to their vehicle.

Buying Guide and What to Check

When considering the purchase of a Sunbeam vehicle, it is essential to conduct thorough research and inspections. With a total of 122 vehicles recorded, including notable models such as the Tourer and the 16.9, understanding the specifics of what to look for can enhance your buying experience.

First, check the vehicle's MOT history. Sunbeam vehicles have an average MOT pass rate of 91.4%, indicating a generally reliable performance. However, it is crucial to review the details of past tests to identify any recurring issues.

Common failures in Sunbeam vehicles include brakes, which account for 19 failures, followed by other categories such as windscreen and lighting, each with 7 failures. Pay particular attention to these areas during your inspection, as they can significantly impact safety and performance.

Fuel type is another consideration, with 74 vehicles running on petrol. Ensure that the fuel type aligns with your preferences and needs. Additionally, the age of the vehicle can influence its condition; Sunbeam models range from as early as 1939 to as recent as 1979, with varying levels of wear and tear.

Inspect the vehicle's bodywork and interior for signs of rust or damage, especially in older models. The year distribution shows a variety of models, with several from the 1950s and 1960s, which may require more attention to detail.

Lastly, consider the vehicle's provenance and service history. A well-documented history can provide insights into the car's maintenance and any potential issues that may arise. Always ensure that you are buying from a reputable source.

Disclaimer: The data provided is based on available records and may not reflect the current state of all vehicles. Always verify information independently before making a purchase.

For enthusiasts and owners of Sunbeam vehicles, understanding the brand's history and performance can enhance the ownership experience. With a total of 122 registered vehicles, Sunbeam has a rich legacy in the automotive world.

The most common model in circulation is the unnamed model, which accounts for 89 of the total vehicles. Other notable models include the Tourer, 16.9, 90, and S7, each with a small number of registrations. This diversity in models reflects the brand's appeal across different eras.

In terms of fuel type, the majority of Sunbeam vehicles run on petrol, with a distribution of 74 vehicles classified as PETROL and 48 as Petrol. This indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among Sunbeam owners.

When considering the age of these vehicles, the year distribution shows a range of models from as early as 1939 to as recent as 1979. Notably, the years 1951 and 1957 have the highest counts, with 6 and 4 vehicles respectively, showcasing the brand's popularity during those decades.

In terms of vehicle performance, the average MOT pass rate for Sunbeam vehicles stands at an impressive 91.4%. This statistic suggests that Sunbeam vehicles are generally well-maintained and reliable.

However, common failures during MOT tests include issues with brakes (19 failures), followed by other categories such as lighting and windscreen problems. Awareness of these common issues can help owners maintain their vehicles effectively.

All data presented here is based on current registrations and MOT test results. While we strive for accuracy, please note that figures may vary over time. For further information, consider visiting dedicated automotive forums or the official Sunbeam owners' club.