Launched to rallying fame in the late 1970s, the Sunbeam Lotus is one of the era’s most exciting performance hatchbacks. This Avon example, one of just 56 built, has been the subject of an exhaustive shell-up restoration and retains its original identity and components wherever possible. Finished in Moonstone Blue Metallic with Deep Blue coach stripes, vinyl roof and period coachlines, XPK 9Y combines authentic period detail with a fully renewed mechanical package.

Why this car matters
Lotus created the Sunbeam to beat Ford at their own game in Group 4 rallying. The recipe was simple: a lightweight rear-drive chassis, Lotus-developed suspension and a high-compression 2,174cc Twin-Cam 16-valve engine producing 150 bhp and 0–60 mph in just 6.6 seconds. The Avon cars took exclusivity further, with distinctive paintwork, vinyl roof, upgraded trim and luxury detailing that set them apart from the standard model.

History and restoration
Registered in March 1983, XPK 9Y passed through three owners before being laid up after a fuel pump failure. Its long-term custodian had the foresight to buy one of the last surviving Sunbeam Lotus bodyshells from Skip Brown Cars. In 2019 the car was completely stripped, every component assessed and either restored or replaced. The restoration replicated the original Avon specification down to correct paint, vinyl roof, coachlines and retrimmed blue velour interior. The original matching-numbers engine and gearbox were rebuilt, electrics renewed and all small parts meticulously detailed. The result is a remarkable shell-up rebuild that preserves more of the original car than might be expected.

Provenance and documentation
This Sunbeam featured in Bangers & Cash (Series 2, Episode 4) and Bangers & Cash: Restoring Classics (Series 1, Episode 2). It comes with a full history file including manuals, carburettor data, keys, invoices, photographs of the restoration, DVLA history and correspondence with Skip Brown and Avon Coachworks.

Mileage and condition
The odometer shows 40,958 miles. While not fully verified, the figure tallies with its last MOT in 1989 at 38,900 miles. Since restoration it has only attended one local meet and remains in pristine, freshly finished condition.

Summary
A rare Avon Sunbeam Lotus with painstaking restoration, TV provenance and comprehensive history. Offered without reserve, XPK 9Y represents a unique opportunity to acquire a standout British hot-hatch.