Lot 222: 1965 Sunbeam Tiger MK I

In 1964 Ian Garrad, Rootes West Coast USA Manager, came up with the idea of fitting a Ford V8 into the Series V Alpine to create a car that could finally take on the Jaguar E Type and Austin Healey 3000. Given that Carroll Shelby had conceived and developed the similarly Ford V8-powered AC Cobra, it was to the Texan racer that Rootes turned to produce the initial prototype before design development and production were handed to Jensen Motors.On its public debut on October 31 1964 at the Turin Motor Show, the Tiger was duly well received and in road tests on both sides of the Atlantic it drew significant praise. Fitted with Ford's 4,261cc V8, producing 164bhp at 4,400rpm, it could top 120mph with 0-60mph taking just 7.8 seconds. The Tiger soon found its way onto the track and went on to enjoy much success, particularly in rallying where it effectively took over the mantle of the Big Healeys.After doing extensive engineering studies Rootes Group subcontracted development and pre-production testing to Jensen, located in Wolverhampton, England. Jensen went on to manufacture the Sunbeam Tiger. Production reached 7,085 cars over three distinct series (the factory only ever designated two, the Mark 1 and Mark 2; however, since the official Mark 1 production spanned the changeover in body style from the Series IV Alpine panels to the Series V panels, the later cars are generally designated Mark 1A by current Sunbeam Tiger enthusiasts). Mark 2 production totalled just 536 cars, and these Tigers, with the 200 hp (150 kW) 289 cu in (4.7 L) engine, are rare today. Amazingly, both the Miles and the Shelby prototypes survive today, along with a number of other historically significant Tigers.This particular example is an original matching number Tiger which has been lovingly restored, and is presented in traditional blue and white Shelby colours as a tribute to the great man's influence on the Tiger's development. The car's original Ford V8 engine and gearbox have been comprehensively overhauled and fitted with a new timing chain, new valve guides and new 040 pistons, while all decorative items have been either rechromed or replaced by Sunbeam Specialties in California, the world's leading Sunbeam parts specialist. In addition, the car has been fitted with a new soft top and matching tonneau. The interior is finished in black with white piping, and both the original wood dashboard and steering wheel have been carefully restored.This is a superb, beautifully presented Tiger in perfect mechanical condition, and offers the chance to own a vehicle with Cobra bloodline and performance at a fraction of the cost.