This 1966 Sunbeam Tiger was the winner of the 2015 Tigers East/Alpines East Concours in Norcross, GA. It was rescued from long term storage and completely restored by Hagerty as an employee restoration project. This is a very rare Mark II Tiger, being the 22nd one ever built, and has the later 289 engine. It is hard to find a stock Tiger as the ease of modifying the Ford V8 means many of them lived a short hard life.
Many people consider the Tiger and “Baby Cobra” since the prototype was built in secret by Carroll Shelby’s team in California.
The 1966 Sunbeam Tiger is a standout example of British and American automotive collaboration. With its powerful Ford V8 engine, sleek design, and agile handling, the Tiger 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 engineering collaboration from Carroll Shelby.
- Year: 1966
- Model: Tiger Mk1A (also referred to as Tiger Mk1 or early Tiger MkII depending on specifics)
Specifications
- Engine: The 1966 Sunbeam Tiger is powered by a 260 cubic inch (4.3-liter) Ford V8 engine. This engine produces around 164 horsepower and significant torque, providing robust performance for the small roadster.
- Transmission: It features a four-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: The car is based on the Sunbeam Alpine chassis, which was modified and reinforced to accommodate the V8 engine.
- Suspension: The front suspension uses independent coil springs and wishbones, while the rear suspension consists of a live axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Sunbeam Tiger is a two-door roadster with a stylish and compact design. It features a removable soft top, and a hardtop was available as an option.
- Design: The Tiger retains the classic lines of the Sunbeam Alpine but with enhancements to accommodate the V8 engine. It has a low, wide stance with an aggressive front grille and sporty profile.
- Interior: The interior is relatively simple yet 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 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 a joy to drive on twisty roads and race tracks alike.
Historical Significance
- Carroll Shelby Collaboration: 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 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 1966 Sunbeam Tiger in our dElegance 2018 online gallery.
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