This British hardtop convertible has been given an incredibly thorough working over.
Charismatic and undeniably cool, that’s how you could describe classic British roadsters. One particularly fine example is this 1966 Sunbeam Tiger MK1A, which has recently hit the market. It looks amazing and embodies everything that was fun about these types of cars back in the day. This British classic is being sold through The Stables.
An exhaustive rotisserie restoration has been described as everything either being completely rebuilt or a new component installed, so everything on this car works and looks fantastic. A thorough underbody treatment should help ensure this car lasts a long time. A Dupont Acrylic Arctic White was applied to the exterior, including the underbody and removable hardtop. That means there are no imperfections in the paint. The car rolls on new 15-inch Silverstone II wheels with Dunlop Direzza tires wrapped around them.
The comprehensive restoration of course included the interior. While the pebble-grain vinyl and sewn carpeting aren’t original, they stick close to how the car was new. Both seats were completely refurbished, including strengthening the original construction. That beautiful English walnut dash is original, having been refinished. Other refurbished original items include the Smiths clock, the 15-inch wood wheel, LAT-72 console, and Jaeger units. While the original Rootes AM radio is still present, it’s no longer working. The wiring was all gutted and replaced, as were the door seals, plugs, and weatherstripping.
Many will be fooled by the engine since it looks original, but it’s actually a 302ci that was completely rebuilt using many upgraded performance components. Among them are performance rod bolts, Keith Black Silverlight Hypereutectic flat-top pistons, performance camshaft, re-ground crankshaft, and a 4bbl Holley carb. Keeping this setup cool is a 4-core radiator. A wide-ratio Toploader transmission was rebuilt and has a Hurst Competition Plus shifter, which actually looks stock.
Rootes Group created the Sunbeam Tiger to excite younger shoppers in the US, adding greater performance to the rather tame Sunbeam Alpine. A mere 2,700 of the MK1As were built, making them quite rare and collectible today. This particular car has been authenticated by the Sunbeam Tiger Owners Association with TAC certification No. 658, so you can buy with the confidence.
