Patina? A cultural asset on wheels worth protecting?
Anyone wandering through the halls of Swiss Classic World last weekend could also discover this white-painted Sunbeam Imp on the SHVF stand. The Sunbeam Imp, which was also sold as a Hillman, was the Roots Group's answer to the Austin Mini in the 1960s, but had the engine in the rear and powered rear wheels.
The theme on the windshield was "patina" and, on closer inspection, the signs of ageing were indeed visible. For an almost 50-year-old everyday car, however, the now rare Sunbeam looked very sprightly, although it would probably be denied the privileged veteran registration (H registration in Germany) in Switzerland. A few small dents, edge rust on the wheels, wear and tear from the luggage rack and a few more minor ailments would probably prevent the inspector from seeing this classic as a well-maintained car worthy of protection.
And although the interior is in very good condition, the cardboard door panels are a little worn and the paint has faded.
Of course, the car could now be restored, but the cost would probably be beyond its value even after the paintwork.
But wouldn't repainted or leatherette-covered door panels take away the car's desirable originality?
One thing is certain, this Sunbeam Imp from January 1970 (with probably only 50,000 km on the clock) can never be more faithful to the original than it is today. Surely it would have earned its veteran's license for that ...
P.S. The report on the classic car fair Swiss Classic World will follow shortly.
