1966 Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1

The West Coast Sales Manager of Rootes American Motors Inc., Ian Garrad, realised that the Sunbeam Alpine's image was that of a touring car rather than a sports car and he set about changing its image using the Shelby Cobra as a guide. Sunbeam asked Carroll Shelby to produce one functional prototype. Shelby's prototype was fabricated by Shelby employee George Boskoff and sent to England for evaluation. The Tiger was born. After doing extensive engineering studies, Rootes Group subcontracted development and production to Jensen, located in West Bromwich. Production of the Tiger reached 7,085 cars. The Shelby prototype has survived, along with a number of other historically significant Tigers including Lister Le Mans racers.This Mk I Tiger was first registered to Rootes Ltd themselves on 29th March 1966, we believe as a demonstrator. It was subsequently sold later that year to a Mr L. Willey of Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, as documented by the original registration document. Beautifully finished in Navy blue with original black leather interior, this Tiger was recently the subject of a bare metal repaint. This work was carried out by the last owner, himself the owner of a bodyshop, in January of this year. As a result, the paint retains an excellent shine and the car presents very well indeed. Mechanical components comprise of Holley 600 carburettors, Edelbrock inlet manifold, electric fan and stainless steel exhaust system. The interior is wonderfully original and features the original wooden steering wheel. Offered with an MoT until November 2014, many old MoT certificates and a large history file with invoices for works completed, the Sunbeam Tiger will celebrate its 50 year anniversary this summer. What better way to celebrate than with this elegant little car. It is described by the owner as driving: "Really well, good weather equipment, a really sound and presentable classic with Cobra type performance."