Corgi:1/43 Sunbeam Alpine Green – Diecast Model

In early 1959 when Rootes were developing the Alpine at Ryton, Coventry, they constructed only eight pre-production prototypes. The car modelled is the third of those and the only survivor, making it the oldest extant example. It survived because, rather than being thrashed to breaking point in testing, it was allocated to the company's design department to be used in the development of new styles and trim. In 1961 it was sold to Rootes' development engineer Bernard Unett, who'd worked on the Alpine programme and wanted to go racing. He debuted the car at Silverstone in September 1961 and was deemed so dangerous that he wasn't allowed to start the second race!

Specifics:

• Scale: 1:43
• Length: 90mm
• Age Suitability: 14+

Corgi's famous model vehicles captured the imagination of millions of baby boomers and, what were once simply toys for boys, are highly sought-after in the expanding collectables market.