1965 Sunbeam Tiger

Sunbeam launched its new, exciting, hybrid sports model - the Tiger, in 1964. This "wolf in sheep's clothing" blended the Alpine bodyshell with an American Ford V8 engine which was normally found under the hood of the early Mustang. The 260 cubic inch (4260cc) V8 provided 164bhp and could propel the Tiger to 120mph, with 60mph arriving in around 9 seconds. Rack and pinion steering ensured precise handling, and an all-synchromesh four speed gearbox was standard and could be coupled to an optional limited slip differential. Even with the large capacity V8 engine, the Tiger managed to return a respectable 20mpg thanks to its lightweight body shell. The acquisition of The Rootes Group by Chrysler saw the end of the Tiger, as there was no way a Chrysler group car was going to sport a Ford engine, and the Chrysler small block would not fit. In 1967, after just 3 years of production, the Sunbeam Tiger was consigned to history.

The Tiger was arguably more practical and commercially successful than the AC Cobra that inspired it.

Prepared in 2010 for Historic Regularity Rallies, this fabulous FIVA papered Sunbeam Tiger was developed from a low mileage 1965 car in sound condition both bodily and mechanically. Sporting a 4721cc engine with steel rods, drop forged pistons, type 246 competition rally cam and larger valves with bronze guides and inserts, this forceful rally entry also benefits from a racing baffled sump, with a balanced and tuftrided crankshaft.

Since her build, which included strengthening the front engine cradle, she has been rolling road tested at 275bhp pulling 330ft/lbs torque and rising to 285ft/lbs at 2500rpm, making it a very tractable car to drive. A large capacity oil pump, fully wrapped competition headers, carbon ceramic clutch with competition pressure plate, oil cooler, 4 barrel holly carb and electronic ignition have all been feature in order to increase the cars competitiveness and reliability.

The original Tiger gearbox has been freshly rebuilt, as has the axle with a 3.54 ratio and new Salisbury LSD. The suspension, recently set-up by XS Racing Chesterfield, includes heavy duty suspension pins plus new competition springs and adjustable shockers all round. Fully polybushed, hydraulic handbrake, 55amp alternator, high-torque starter, extra row radiator, Kenlow fan, custom-made alloy sump and gearbox guard, plus a 19 gallon alloy fuel tank with twin facet pumps also feature with this car. The exhaust system is a 2½" stainless steel unit which delivers a great sound. The car sits on 14" Minilite wheels shod with Dunlop D84J Historic tarmac tyres. A full rollcage compatible with both hard and soft tops, Cobra retro bucket seats, full Sabelt harnesses as well as map light, wiring for Poti light, Brantz tripmeter and timer, navigators footrest and two hand-held fire extinguishers complete the functional interior which is cabled for a Halda.

Looking bright and well finished, complete with obligatory Cibie Oscar long-range spotlights on quick release lamp brackets and with a fibreglass LAT vented bonnet, the car has a menacing demeanour.

Sold with a 100% finishing record and 9th on the 2010 Marathon Des Alpes, this car is now offered reluctantly for sale as the vendor and his navigator have secured a second competition car suitable for pre-'63 eventing. Perfectly suited for both the 2011 Marathon Des Alpes and the upcoming Winter Challenge, this car represents an outstanding opportunity for someone to enjoy today.

Should you have any detailed questions of the specification of this car we encourage you to please contact us.