FOR SALE JF Classic Cars are proud to present a motorsport legend an exceptional Talbot Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 finished in Black with Silver stripes and lotus emblem, having covered a mere 33,509 miles from new and retaining an impeccable level of originality DESCRIPTION Originally developed as a rally-bred homologation special, the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus became one of the most successful Group 4 rally cars of its generation. Born from a partnership between Chrysler/Talbot and Lotus, the Sunbeam Lotus featured a lightweight rear-wheel-drive shell, a raucous twin-cam engine, and the kind of handling that earned it a WRC Constructors’ Championship title in 1981. This example, finished in the most iconic colour combination of Embassy Black with silver full-length side stripes, with low-mileage, time-warp survivor and beautifully preserved EXTERNAL Finished in the highly sought-after Embassy Black paintwork and factory-correct silver side stripes, this Sunbeam Lotus is presented in truly exceptional condition having had no welding. The vibrant, glossy paintwork retains incredible depth and clarity with a mirror-like finish across all panels, a clear reflection of its careful ownership and low mileage. Having bold Silver stripes down each flank which remain sharp and unfaded, accentuating the aggressive stance and rally-inspired lines of the car All panels are arrow-straight along with correct panel fitment throughout sheer testiment and credit to it's previous owners To the front, the slatted black grille proudly features the distinctive ‘T’ Talbot emblem, a subtle nod to the car’s motorsport-bred heritage, flanking the grille original Cibie headlamps and Marchal spotlights remain crystal clear and crack-free. Rear lenses remain original and also present in excellent condition. Window trims, rubbers, and seals all present in good tarnish free condition along with original glazing  Badging to the front and rear positioned correctly being bright, bold and unfaded INTERIOR Step inside, and you're greeted by a cabin that feels every bit as iconic as its rally-bred exterior. The original high back contoured bucket seats with headrests covered in distinctive Piccadilly cloth, unique to the Sunbeam Lotus, are in outstanding condition their striped pattern remains vivid and free from wear, sagging or fade. The front seats retain excellent shape with firm bolstering, while the rear bench appears barley used. Matching black door cards remain clean and undistorted, with intact trim panels housing wind up window and door pull handles . The dash retains originality along with original functional switchgear all preserved in the best of condition original, 3-spoke Black soft rim padded sports steering wheel complete with Talbot centre boss, Heated rear screen along with wash/wipe  Ahead of the driver, the Smiths six instrument cluster displays clear, functioning dials including the rev counter with 6,750-rpm redline, auxiliary gauges, and odometer showing just 33,509 miles. Switchgear and stalks all operate correctly, and the period Philips push-button radio remains in place. Black carpets are clean and protected by fitted overmats, while the original gear lever with Lotus-logoed knob remains tight and precise in feel. The roof lining is taut and unstained, further supporting the car’s fastidious ownership. The rear parcel shelf remains original and free from speaker cutouts. ENGINE & TRANSMISSION Fitted with the legendary Lotus-developed 2172cc 16-valve inline-four, this Sunbeam delivers the raw performance that defined the Group 4 rally era. Breathing through twin DellOrto carburettors, the engine produces an estimated 150 bhp in road trim — a staggering figure for the late 1970s. Firing up with ease and settling into a purposeful idle, the engine is free-revving and eager under throttle, delivering strong torque throughout the rev range. Power is channelled through a robust 5-speed Martin Jones built ZF gearbox, offering short, mechanical throws and precise engagement. Gear changes are crisp and confidence-inspiring, perfectly matched to the car’s performance nature. With its rear-wheel-drive layout having had the period upgrade Limited Slip Diff Fitted, the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus maintains exceptional traction and handling balance, aided by a stiffened suspension along with a larger front anti roll bar. This drivetrain combination, developed by Lotus and proven in motorsport, gives the car a race-bred edge on both road and track. The engine bay presents cleanly and honestly, with correct ancillaries, bracketry, and Lotus cam cover proudly in place — a testament to its originality and careful upkeep WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus sits on its correct and original 13-inch cast alloy wheels, designed specifically for the model and finished in silver with black centre caps. All wheels present in excellent condition throughout, The car is shod with quality performance Pirelli 185/70/R13 tyres all round, offering excellent grip and plenty of tread depth, well-suited to the chassis’ rally-bred dynamics. The spare wheel also a matching alloy and fitted with a matching Pirelli Having Bilstein shock absorbers fitted, a period enhanced modification Braking is handled by Vented front disc brakes ( a period modification ) and rear drums, all working in unison to provide confident stopping power. The system operates smoothly and without pull, bringing the car to a controlled stop even under spirited driving conditions. Brake lines, calipers, and drums present in clean, well-maintained condition, supporting the car’s impressive road manners and performance credentials HISTORY Without doubt in our opinion this is one of the best examples we have seen, Along with being in stunning condition inside, outside including the undercarriage! Carrying the original Sunbeam Lotus embossed dealer book pack which includes the following: Owners Instructions Supplement Owners Handbook and other various leaflets A wealth of history comes with the vehicle including a DVLA keeper history record In the year 2000 Jeremy Clarkson drove this very vehicle for his then DVD 'Clarkson's Greatest Cars' of which a copy's enclosed Complete Workshop manual binder encased Historic MOT certificates also included Make no mistake this vehicle in our opinion sits at a high quality level ensuring originality has been preserved throughout This Talbot Sunbeam Lotus represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic homologation specials of its era preserved to a truly exceptional standard. With its rally pedigree it stands proudly as a collector-grade example worthy of any serious classic car portfolio. Whether tucked away in a private collection or exercised on fast A-roads, it offers the motorsport heritage and without question one of the all time greats. With 2 sets of keys, HPi Clear, MOT May 2026, Historic Tax