Conceived by Ian Garrad, the West Coast manager in the United States for Britain’s Rootes Motors, the Sunbeam Tiger successfully carved out a niche in the fervent American sports-car market of the 1960s. Capitalizing on its accomplishments in competitions, Garrad saw potential in enhancing the performance by introducing V8 power. Once Garrad’s proposal received the green light, Ken Miles swiftly constructed a prototype using a Ford 260ci engine in under a week to showcase the idea.
The project received resounding approval from company leadership and was introduced to the American market in 1964. The Tiger’s popularity surged. Unfortunately, the Tiger’s trajectory was curtailed by Chrysler’s acquisition of Rootes, which led to the discontinuation of Ford engine supplies, ultimately marking the end of the Tiger’s dominion.
During the 2023 New Orleans Auction, a frame-on restored 1965 Sunbeam Tiger will be offered with No Reserve. The vehicle boasts a robust powertrain: a 302ci V8 engine generating 321 horsepower. Fuel is delivered through a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, and the engine is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. The car’s aesthetic appeal is enhanced by its Spoke cast-alloy Minilite-styled aluminum wheels, which are adorned with BFGoodrich TA radial tires, ensuring both style and performance on the road.
The vehicle boasts an interior adorned with black upholstery accented by elegant blue piping. Notably, the car comes equipped with a versatile black convertible top that can be complemented by a removable hardtop.
As it prepares to find its new custodian at the inaugural auction, September 28-30 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this 1965 Sunbeam Tiger beckons enthusiasts and collectors alike to embrace its storied history and embrace the exhilaration it promises on the open road. Register to bid today for your chance to take this collectible home.
As it prepares to find its new custodian at the inaugural auction, September 28-30 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this 1965 Sunbeam Tiger beckons enthusiasts and collectors alike to embrace its storied history and embrace the exhilaration it promises on the open road.