The Tiger and the Cobra have a great deal in common. Both began life as modestly powered sports cars built by independent British makers and were ultimately endowed with American Ford V8s; the inspiration for the transplant came in both instances from Texan Carroll Shelby. There was a total production run of 3,763 Mk1 260 Sunbeam Tigers of which only limited numbers were released for the home market (Q1 DVLA stats 253 are currently registered with a further 102 under SORN). Jensen Motors of West Bromwich did the structural modifications necessary to install the Ford V8.

This Tiger was restored in 2011 with show level paintwork, and must be one of the most original and unmolested examples remaining. With values of good Tiger’s in the USA now reaching the $100,000 level, it cannot be long before these often underappreciated cars are given the recognition they deserve.

With a generous power to weight ratio and a very short wheelbase Sunbeam Tigers are very exciting to drive with their 4.2 litre V8, described at the time by Roots Motors as “Powerful performance and placid personality in one car”

This example, which is beautifully restored and is very well sorted following a full Dyno Set up in April 2012 by John Sneath Race Cars Ltd - 177.6 bhp and 270 ft lbs of Torque. It is a truly outstanding 1965 British sports car and a superb investment considering prices are expected to soar in the coming years.

The recent full restoration comprises an extensive list. The headlines being:

• Comprehensive Engine rebuild.
• Brake and Clutch overhaul.
• Steering and suspension rebuild.
• Electrical system overhaul.
• Up rated cooling Fan.
• Anti tramp bars as fitted to the 1965 Le Mans cars.
• Body Shell stripped to bare metal including fitting of new part inner and outer sills etch priming and spraying in Forest Green (photographic information available).
• Stainless Steel Exhaust.

The car is supplied with the original logbook and being an original UK registered MK 1 car is very rare, especially in this original condition, with not many other cars captivating the small car/big engine concept quite like the Tiger or “the little Cobra”. In summary a superb cabriolet with an amazing V8 American engine.

Prior to delivery the vehicle will have been fully serviced, and have a 12 months MOT. It is of course Tax exempt.

We welcome viewings at our premises but please call beforehand to make an appointment.