Sunbeam 1000HP: Engineering, Speed, and a Lasting Legacy
A Milestone on Wheels
It’s 1927 in Daytona Beach, Florida. The world is captivated by the race for speed records, and the automotive industry is evolving rapidly. Among the many challengers, Sunbeam sets out to make history with a groundbreaking machine—the Sunbeam 1000HP.
More than just a car, it was an ambitious experiment in power and engineering, designed to break barriers and redefine what was possible on four wheels.
An Ambitious Project
The concept was bold: What if they combined two Napier Lion aircraft engines into one car? The result was a machine producing more than 1,000 horsepower, built with a singular purpose:
to become the first automobile to exceed 200 miles per hour.
To achieve this feat, Sunbeam engineers crafted a lightweight yet sturdy aluminum body, meticulously designed for speed and stability. Its long, narrow form helped it maintain balance on Daytona’s unpredictable sandy surface, reducing drag and maximizing performance.
The Record-Breaking Day
On March 29, 1927, British driver Sir Henry Segrave took the wheel of the Sunbeam 1000HP. The world watched in anticipation as he accelerated across the vast Daytona Beach shoreline. With incredible precision and sheer power, he reached an average speed of 203.79 mph (327 km/h) marking the first time in history that a car surpassed 200 mph.
This achievement was a monumental victory for British engineering and a defining moment in motorsport history, proving that technological innovation could shatter perceived limits.
Technical Specifications
- Engines: 2 x Napier Lion W12 aircraft engines
- Power Output: Over 1,000 horsepower
- Weight: Approximately 4 tons
- Bodywork: Aluminum, designed for aerodynamic efficiency
- Transmission: Chain drive, modified to handle immense power
- Tires: Specially designed by Dunlop to endure extreme speeds on sand
A Childhood Icon in Our Collection
The Sunbeam 1000HP holds a special place in our hearts, as it was one of the model cars we cherished in our childhood. Its legendary status made it a must-have in our collection, and we often include it in our creative shoots.
Seeing it in real life at Goodwood Revival was an unforgettable moment, and we couldn’t resist capturing the experience, celebrating the history and excitement of this engineering marvel.
Preserving the Past, Racing Toward the Future
Now, the car is proudly displayed at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu where their engineers are meticulously preserving this historic machine for future generations.
Their ambition? To return the 1,000 HP Sunbeam to Daytona in March 2027 for the 100-year anniversary of its groundbreaking record.
