“You don’t just start the Tiger… you unleash it!” —Carroll Shelby

After the success of the Shelby Cobra, British manufacturers looked for other sports cars that could handle a V-8 transplant. The Rootes Group, with some urging by Formula One World Champion Jack Brabham, reached out to Carroll Shelby about developing a Cobra-esque take on their handsome Sunbeam Alpine.

In the same spirit as the Cobra, Shelby and his team took a base Alpine, yanked out the mild-mannered four-cylinder engine, and shoehorned in Ford's 260-cubic-inch small-block V-8. The chassis and brakes were suitably updated, and the car given an appropriately flashy new name: Tiger. The Sunbeam Tiger offered junior-Cobra performance in a more modern, civilized, and user-friendly package. Amenities like comfortable seats, a proper ventilation system, and roll-up glass side windows made it feel generally more contemporary, while its price point was within the reach of the average enthusiast, spurring a cult-like following that continues to this day.

Listed in the The Book of Norman registry, this Tiger was manufactured in February 1966 as a “Mark IA” model. Never an official Rootes Group designation, the term “Mark IA” has arisen to describe these later Tigers built upon the Sunbeam Alpine Series V body with noticeably sharper panel lines and a vinyl top boot in place of the earlier metal cover.

Prior to coming under Dare to Dream Collection’s curation in 2013, this Tiger reportedly received a full restoration using materials sourced from Sunbeam Specialties of Campbell, California. Finished in a triple-black livery, the car features many authentic details including pebble-grain vinyl seat and door card upholstery, wood-rimmed two-spoke wheel, and wood dash with correct Jaeger instrumentation. Ford's potent 260-cubic-inch V-8 engine is well-detailed, with the proper oval air cleaner and fluted aluminum “Tiger” valve covers. Tools and a spare wheel are stowed in the trunk.

Light, compact, and immensely enjoyable to drive, Sunbeam Tigers make for a choice entry in any number of tours, rallies, and club events. Referred to by enthusiasts as a “Cobra for the masses,” this well-sorted, triple-black example offers a premier opportunity to unleash your own Tiger.