The Sunbeam Rapier was a series of compact cars introduced in 1955. The Rapier was largely offered as a two door saloon or two door convertible during its life, but a two door fastback body style was also available starting in 1967. These rear wheel drive cars were built in six generations: Series I (1955-1958), Series II (1958-1959), Series III (1959-1961), Series IIIA (1961-1963), Series IV (1963-1965), and Series V (1965-1967). After 'Series' production ended in 1967, the Rapier name was used for the Rapier Fastback, which was based on the Rootes Arrow, and built until 1976.