Sunbeam Tourer 14/40
A True Family Treasure - On Display at UK Garage and Bodyshop Event This June
For More Info Or Bids Email jpettymotors@yahoo.co.uk
First registered on 11th July 1925, this remarkable car still proudly wears its original registration number – RP1475. A rare survivor with genuine provenance, it is believed to have originally been sold to a doctor in London, following investigations carried out in the mid‑1980s.
The car became part of the Petty family story in July 1975, when Jack Petty fell in love with it at a motor show at Castle Howard and purchased it on the spot. From that moment on, it was far more than just a vehicle. Jack used the car most weekends for seaside trips and family picnics, and he was well known for driving it to meetings across the country to make a lasting impression.
A passionate enthusiast, Jack joined the Traditional Car Club and toured extensively across Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and France, enjoying every mile behind the wheel. Closer to home, the car was frequently used for friends’ weddings throughout East Yorkshire and became a familiar sight at the family garage on Chapel Street, Goole, which Jack ran alongside his son, Keith.
In 1981, the car played a very special role when Jack drove his future daughter‑in‑law Jane, and her father, to Keith and Jane’s wedding in Verwood, Dorset.
Sadly, following Jack’s first stroke at the age of 70 in 1996, the car saw far less use. After a series of health issues, Jack passed away in 2006, leaving the car to Keith. Since then, it has continued to appear at occasional family weddings, including the wedding of Keith’s son Stuart to Sarah – a fitting continuation of the family’s motoring legacy and the longevity of the garage business.
The car has been part of the Petty family for over 50 years, although its use has been very limited over the past two decades. Accompanied by a wealth of original documentation, its history is exceptionally well recorded.
Now, the time feels right for this car to begin its next chapter. If you would like to make an offer or place a bid, we would love to see it gain a new lease of life. There is still plenty of life left in this extraordinary vehicle, and it truly deserves a fitting send‑off after such a rich and meaningful journey.
an MOT Certificate from 1977
A local newspaper snippet from 1994 showcasing Jack, Keith and the garage with a special mention of the sunbeam
Pages from the original handbook
Jack Petty stood looking proud to drive the car on his son Keith's wedding day 45 years ago! Jack drove his future daughter in law to the church
Shows the car in Loch Lomond with the original owners, believed to be a Doctor from London and his family
He wrote on the back of the photo the location. The photo is very blurry in its original condition, but it is very old one!
Want To Learn More?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Don't see your question listed? Get in touch with us, we're happy to chat!
The Sunbeam is a classic Sunbeam Tourer manufactured and first registered in 1925. It is a rare vintage vehicle and an important part of J Petty Motors’ heritage.
The Sunbeam is 99 years old and is approaching its 100th anniversary, making it a remarkable example of early motoring history that is still running today.
Yes – despite its age, the Sunbeam is fully operational and has been driven to local landmarks and events, showcasing the longevity of classic engineering.
J Petty Motors has decades of mechanical experience across all vehicle types. While the Sunbeam itself is a special heritage vehicle, the team’s knowledge reflects a deep understanding of both historic and modern motor vehicles.
The Sunbeam reflects the garage’s values: long‑term reliability, pride in workmanship, and a genuine love of cars. It highlights how J Petty Motors combines traditional expertise with modern technology.