SUNBEAM TIGER MK1
1966 | Cabriolet | Wedgewood blue
The 1966 Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 represents one of the most fascinating transatlantic automotive partnerships of the 1960s. Seeking to replicate the massive success of the AC Cobra, the British Rootes Group enlisted the legendary Carroll Shelby to inject American muscle into their elegant but underpowered Sunbeam Alpine roadster. The result, assembled by Jensen Motors in England, was the Sunbeam Tiger—a thrilling lightweight sports car affectionately known by enthusiasts as the “Baby Cobra.”
True to Shelby’s original recipe, this highly coveted Mk1 is powered by the robust 260-cubic-inch (4.3-liter) Ford Windsor V8 engine, celebrated for its bulletproof reliability, immense low-end torque, and unmistakable guttural soundtrack. This American powerplant is perfectly mated to a crisp 4-speed manual transmission that offers a highly engaging and visceral driving experience. To handle the dramatic increase in power and torque over the standard Alpine, the Tiger features vital engineering upgrades. These include a much more precise rack-and-pinion steering system, a stiffer suspension setup enhanced with a rear Panhard rod, and a specifically modified chassis designed to accommodate the V8’s weight and twist. The result is a beautifully balanced roadster that effortlessly combines British charm with brute American force.
Currently available at SportClasse, this remarkable 1966 example presents in outstanding cosmetic and mechanical condition, reflecting a lifetime of meticulous care and respect. It is entirely ready to be driven, enjoyed, and admired. However, what truly sets this specific Tiger apart is its unparalleled provenance. It is offered to its next custodian with an incredibly comprehensive dossier that includes its fully documented history and original owner’s manuals, alongside an extensive, curated collection of period magazines and books detailing the legacy of the model.
This is an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a pristine piece of Anglo-American automotive history that is just as suited for thrilling open-road drives as it is for the finest concours lawns.
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