Fantasy Junction

Description

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Mk. 1A
s/n 382002518
Dark Metallic Green with Black Interior

Employing a similar formula to the AC Cobra, the Sunbeam Tiger represents the quintessential British sports car with a twist. Using the modified chassis and body of the four-cylinder Sunbeam Alpine combined with Ford’s venerable small-block V8, the prototype of the Tiger was constructed by Shelby at Sunbeam’s request. The resulting car was put into production, which was handled by Jensen, and just over 7000 examples were constructed between 1964 and 1967. The Tiger was manufactured in three series, Mk. I, Mk. IA, and the most advanced and powerful of the production run, the Mk. II, which were originally equipped with 289 cid Ford power plants. Of the total production, just 500 were true Mk. IIs.

This particular car has been owned for several years by a west coast historic racing figurehead who owned and successfully campaigned Cooper Formula One cars. The current owner purchased the car from another avid automotive enthusiast in Prunedale, California, near Monterey. According to that owner, the 289 engine was recently rebuilt. While our driving impressions confirms this to be the case, we do not have records on file for what work was done, or when.

Present on this example are the structural elements unique to a genuine Sunbeam Tiger. As a 1967 year model, this car is among the last Mk. 1As produced. In addition to its 289 c.i. engine, this example has been upgraded with a 5-speed transmission, which greatly improves the driving experience on the highway. It has also been updated with trailing arms to help support the rear suspension, correcting a design flaw endemic to Sunbeam Tigers. Other minor updates include the fitment of easy to read white retro-look modern VDO gauges, and a louvered bonnet to help extract engine bay heat, assisting with cooling. Structurally, this Tiger is in excellent order, with no obvious evidence of damage or rust repair, thanks to its long-time California custodianship.

Cosmetically, this example is best described as a solid, nice driver. It has clearly been the subject of considerable restoration works, although no paperwork is present to confirm exactly what was done. The paintwork is generally good, with only moderate age showing. The chrome and stainless trim is straight, and in good driver condition, with only light weathering showing in selected areas. The window glass and lenses are all in good order. A fairly new vinyl top is fitted, and the rear window remains clear. This Sunbeam sits on very smart cast alloy wheels, which are slightly wider than stock. Fortunately, however, the fenders are not flared from their original configuration.

The interior is refinished nice driver upholstery and carpets. A center console has been added, which houses a cassette player. This example comes with a four-point roll bar, and there are receiving platforms for this behind the driver’s and passenger’s seats. We have no evidence that it was ever raced, however.

The engine bay is clean, tidy, orderly, and reasonably well detailed. The trunk is very original in appearance, and in very good condition considering this. The underside, while not overly detailed, is solid, and in good order without any significant leaks or other issues evident.

The car drives well. It starts easily, and makes good power. The steering and suspension systems have a solid feel compared to other Sunbeam Tigers, and the brakes are effective. The pedals are well aligned, and the 5-speed transmission shifts smoothly with proper clutch adjustment.

Perhaps no other streetcar of the era taps into the primal concept of small car-big motor so much as the Sunbeam Tiger. With a generous power to weight ratio, and very short wheel base, the Sunbeam Tigers are very exciting cars. Bruce Trenery, owner of Fantasy Junction, has kept a nearly identical dart metallic green Tiger as part of his automotive collection for nearly 30 years. This structurally and mechanically sound, nice driver presentation example will lend itself well to daily summer touring, or vintage rally participation.

Included with the sale is the roll bar, painted to match the car, the spare tire and wheel, and a jack.

The please note that the full chassis plate reads: 662512 B382002518 LRXFE 6918 B191KC 108, although the car is titled in California to only the portion containing the numbers “382002518”.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608