Chris Barker was part of the last intake of Student Apprentices at Rootes Motors, and after graduation from Loughborough University in 1973, he became a development engineer with Chrysler UK. Moving to helicopter design and development, he became Chief Designer for the Lynx, and then the Merlin helicopter. Chris still has the Sunbeam Alpine he bought in 1973, and in 2002, it was joined by a 1926 Model T Ford. He answers technical questions on the Sunbeam Alpine OC Forum, and is the Archivist of the Model T Ford Register of Great Britain. In recent years he has also restored machinery in his local Victorian ’twineworks,’ and installed a 1927 16-litre oil engine to power it.

• Introduction1. Is it the right car for you?2. Cost considerations3. Living with Sunbeam Alpine4. Relative values5. Before you view6. Inspection equipment7. Fifteen minute evaluation8. Key points9.. Serious evaluation10. Auctions11. Paperwork12. What's it worth?13. Do you really want to restore?14. Paint problems15. Problems due to lack of use16. The Community17. Vital statisticsIndex

A good-value guide that could be invaluable. Classic & Sports Car (UK) essential reading for any potential Alpine Buyer and is a welcome addition to the rather limited catalogue of other Alpine publications. The Alpine Horn ideal for existing owners and of course, if you are thinking of buying one at auction, privately or from a specialist. tkc (Totalkitcar)