Description
Sunbeam Tiger: British spirit combined with American power The Sunbeam Tiger is a bold metamorphosis of the Rootes Group's elegant Sunbeam Alpine. This two-seater convertible, launched in 1959, already had British charm in its lines, but it was thanks to a stroke of genius from America that it became a legend. At the instigation of Rootes American Motors Ltd, the legendary Carroll Shelby - father of the legendary AC Cobra - was invited to transform the Alpine into a real sports car. The result? A 4. 3-litre Ford V8 nestled under the bonnet, delivering 164 bhp. The Tiger was born, a perfect fusion of British elegance and the brutality of an American muscle car. Two main versions were produced: - Series I (1964-1967), powered by the famous Ford 260 ci engine; - Series II, a rare and exclusive model, produced in just 633 units and equipped with the more powerful Ford 289 ci engine. On the racetrack and on the road, the Tiger made its mark. Competing in the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1964 and winning European rallies, it also shone on American drag strips, where it held a national record for two years. The car on display: an exceptional rebirth This model, restored with passion and expertise, offers a driving experience as exhilarating as in its day: - Mechanical: the Ford V8 expresses itself with vigour, its revs coming up crisply and smoothly. The 4-speed Toploader gearbox is precise and smooth, demonstrating impeccable attention to detail. - Chassis and running gear: faultless suspension and brakes, for roadholding worthy of the best roadsters. - Body: the bodywork is perfectly aligned, finished in a deep blue paint that catches the light with elegance.
- Interior: the patinated black leather and wooden dashboard evoke the hushed ambience of British clubs, a timeless refinement. Between tradition and power Halfway between a British rugby player and an American quarterback, the Sunbeam Tiger marries the finesse of a British roadster with the raw soul of a muscle car. Rarer and more versatile than a Cobra, it is a piece of automotive history, ready to conquer the heart of its future owner.
