Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Importers

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1950s Sunbeam S7 / S8 Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The Sunbeam S7 and S8 were BSA-era, shaft-drive British twins noted for their smooth OHC inline-twin engines and touring manners. The S7 (notably the later “S7 Deluxe”) carried balloon tyres and a more luxurious spec; the S8 was lighter and a touch sportier with conventional tyres and mudguards. UK desirability today favours originality, correct finish and tidy running gear; solid mechanicals and complete tinware are key to stronger results.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition and model)

Condition	Sunbeam S7 / S7 Deluxe	Sunbeam S8	Example External Source (non-link reference)
Project / Restoration Non-runner or incomplete; common needs: engine refresh, charging, wheels/tyres, paint/chrome and wiring.	£2,500 – £3,800	£2,200 – £3,500	H&H Classics – garage-find results; The Saleroom – project outcomes
Roadworthy / Presentable Running and usable; older cosmetics or minor non-OEM items; generally complete with V5C and some history.	£4,500 – £6,500	£3,800 – £5,500	Iconic Auctioneers – Stafford sales; Car & Classic – completed adverts
Restored / Excellent High-quality restoration or outstanding original; matching numbers; correct finish and detailing; comprehensive history file.	£7,000 – £10,000	£6,000 – £9,000	Bonhams – Stafford motorcycle sales; The Saleroom – multi-house archives

Notes: The S7/S7 Deluxe typically commands a premium over the S8 when originality and presentation are comparable. Clean, running S8s often transact in the mid-£4k–£5k range; very smart S7 Deluxe examples with strong provenance can approach or exceed the £10k mark at peak UK venues.

Value Influencing Factors

• Model & specification: S7 / S7 Deluxe tends to fetch more than S8 when condition is equal.
• Originality & completeness: Correct tank, mudguards, instruments and finish; matching numbers and intact shaft-drive running gear.
• Mechanical condition: Evidence of recent engine/charging/brake work and reliable starting/running lifts results.
• Provenance & documentation: V5C, period paperwork, restoration invoices and old MOTs improve confidence.
• Sale venue & timing: Major UK motorcycle auctions (e.g., Stafford) and summer listings achieve stronger prices.

Conclusion

In the UK, S7 / S7 Deluxe riders typically realise £4.5k–£6.5k, with excellent examples at £7k–£10k. S8 riders commonly sell for £3.8k–£5.5k and reach £6k–£9k at the top end. Projects for both models range roughly £2.2k–£3.8k depending on completeness and mechanical state. Correctness and presentation are the biggest determinants of price.

Source attribution (non-link references): Bonhams – Stafford motorcycle sales; Iconic Auctioneers – sale archives; H&H Classics – Sunbeam S7/S8 results; The Saleroom – multi-house realised prices; Car & Classic – UK sold/asking context.

All Valuations