A restoration of this 1965 Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 was completed by renowned California hot rod visionary Doane Spencer of Hollywood Sports Cars in 1999.
Thomas Harrington Ltd. built a handful of fastback Le Mans bodies for Sunbeam Alpine chassis during the early 1960’s. Exactly one of the bodies was built for the Sunbeam Tiger, this is that car.
The 1965 Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 is a standout example of British and American automotive collaboration. With its powerful Ford V8 engine, sleek design, and agile handling, the Tiger Mk1 offers an exhilarating driving experience. Its historical significance, connection to Carroll Shelby, and cultural impact make it a celebrated classic car that continues to be admired by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Background
- Manufacturer: Rootes Group (Sunbeam), with the engineering collaboration of Carroll Shelby.
- Year: 1965
- Model: Tiger Mk1
Specifications
- Engine: The Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 is powered by a Ford V8 engine. Specifically, it uses a 260 cubic inch (4.3-liter) V8 engine that produces around 164 horsepower.
- Transmission: It features a four-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: The car is built on the same basic chassis as the Sunbeam Alpine, but it is reinforced and modified to accommodate the larger V8 engine.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of independent coil springs with wishbones, while the rear features a live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 is a two-door roadster with a stylish and sporty design, featuring a removable soft top or an optional hardtop.
- Design: The Tiger Mk1 retains the classic lines of the Sunbeam Alpine but with subtle modifications to accommodate the V8 engine. It has a low, wide stance with a distinctively aggressive front grille and sleek profile.
- Interior: The interior is relatively simple but functional, with bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and clear instrumentation. The emphasis is on driving pleasure and performance.
Performance
- Speed: The powerful V8 engine allows the Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 to reach a top speed of around 120 mph (193 km/h).
- Acceleration: The car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it one of the quicker cars of its era.
- Handling: The combination of a robust chassis and responsive suspension provides excellent handling characteristics, making the Tiger Mk1 a joy to drive on twisty roads and race tracks alike.
Historical Significance
- Collaboration with Carroll Shelby: The creation of the Sunbeam Tiger was significantly influenced by Carroll Shelby, who was known for his work on the AC Cobra. Shelby's involvement in the Tiger's development added credibility and performance pedigree to the car.
- Market Position: The Sunbeam Tiger was positioned as an affordable, high-performance roadster, competing with cars like the MG MGB and the Triumph TR4, but offering a unique blend of British style and American power.
Legacy
- Cultural Impact: The Sunbeam Tiger gained fame not only for its performance but also for its appearances in popular media, such as the television series "Get Smart," where it was driven by the main character, Maxwell Smart.
- Collector's Item: Today, the Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 is highly sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts. Its rarity, performance, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any classic car collection.
- Racing Heritage: The Tiger was also used in various motorsport events, showcasing its competitive potential and solidifying its reputation as a capable sports car.
You may purchase a print of the 1965 Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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