Sunbeam Venezia Classic Cars for Sale

Introduction and history of the Sunbeam Venezia

The Sunbeam Venezia combines a classic British platform with elegant Italian coachwork, produced through a unique partnership between Sunbeam and Carrozzeria Touring in Milan. Launched in the mid-1960s, its development aimed to add an exclusive coupé to Sunbeam’s lineup. Built using Touring’s Superleggera process, the Venezia's lightweight bodywork set it apart from mainstream British saloons and established the model as a boutique offering reflecting the cross-European ambition of its era.

Model history

The Sunbeam Venezia has no direct predecessor within the marque and was an independent venture for Sunbeam into the arena of upscale, limited-production coupés. Designed and assembled in Italy by Superleggera, it did not spawn a direct successor. Its rarity is underlined by a total production run of just 148 vehicles, ensuring that every Venezia carries individual provenance. While later Sunbeams would refocus on more mainstream or sporting cars, the Venezia remains unique within the manufacturer’s history.

Highlights of Sunbeam Venezia

Key highlights of the Sunbeam Venezia include its aluminium-bodied construction by Superleggera in Italy, a robust 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive for more comfortable cruising, and a selection of original equipment such as the period radio, spare wheel, and jack. Surviving examples often retain documentation like the original sales brochure and manual, adding to their authenticity. From our database, the Venezia stands apart within the Sunbeam brand: 100% of Sunbeam models listed from this series are Venezia, and demand mirrors this perfectly, with all user views concentrating on the Venezia, reflecting its exclusive status in Sunbeam’s classic segment.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no known factory special editions of the Sunbeam Venezia, as the entire production was limited to only 148 examples, each considered exclusive due to its hand-built nature and limited run.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Equipped with a 4-speed manual gearbox featuring overdrive, the Sunbeam Venezia is designed for comfortable touring rather than outright speed. The light Superleggera body construction paired with a capable British drivetrain makes the handling refined and well-suited for European roads. The gearbox's overdrive allows for relaxed motorway cruising, a rarity in cars of this class and era. All examples of the Sunbeam Venezia adhere to this mechanical specification, with subtle variations mainly in optional accessories or minor trim.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Venezia’s most striking feature is its aluminium body sculpted by Touring Superleggera, resulting in elegant, distinctly Italian contours and refined proportions. The interior harmonises British practicality with Italian flair, featuring period-accurate components such as the original Sunbeam-branded radio and well-considered dash layout. Owners could access a small range of optional accessories, from painted roof variations to classic wheel trims and upholstery details reflecting mid-1960s taste.

Other relevant features

Each Sunbeam Venezia often comes with original documentation, including the factory sales brochure and manual, alongside tools like a jack and spare wheel. These details enhance the completeness and historical value of surviving examples.

Summary

The Sunbeam Venezia is a rare example of cross-European collaboration in automotive history—British engineering clothed in Italian design, with only 148 units ever made. Its unique construction, period-correct details, and clear market focus make it significant for discerning collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its authentic blend of heritage and exclusivity.