I had a 1956/7 Rapier Mk.1, 1390cc, column change, 4 speed plus overdrive, absolutely loved it. Rallied it when I was in the RAF against other RAF stations, went extremely well, though not very hurried when accelerating.
However, typical Roots Group car of the time, absolute rust bucket, spent most weekends patching it up and spraying to hold the rust at bay.
Did many thousands of miles though, including up to Scotland and down to the West Country.
Saw one advertised recently that had been converted to disc brakes, floor change, up-graded engine (still 1390cc), full upholstry re-furb, asking for £20,000. Doubt he achieved it.