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Sunbeam Tiger 260 & 289 (1964-67)

Production Total: 7,083
Recorded in UK 2024
Mk 1 & 2 Licensed=314 SORN=83

Sunbeam Tiger 260 & 289 (1964-67)

The Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1, while a classic and beloved car, does have some common faults that owners and enthusiasts should be aware of:

1. **Corrosion**: This is a significant issue, especially in the trunk area where the battery is mounted. The factory-fitted vent tube caps can fail, leading to acid buildup and corrosion.
2. **Seam Sealer Failure**: Behind the front wheels, seam sealer failure can allow moisture and debris to get inside the rocker panels, leading to rust and corrosion.
3. **Generator Clearance**: The reshaped passenger side fender well for generator clearance can leave a shovel-shaped depression and telltale holes.
4. **Handling**: Tigers are known for their less-than-stellar handling, often compared to derailed trains³.

Despite these faults, the Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 remains a cherished classic for its unique combination of British roadster charm and American V-8 power.
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Generations
The Sunbeam Tiger had two main generations:

1. **Mk I**: Produced from 1964 to 1966, this version was equipped with a 260 cu in (4.3 L) Ford V8 engine.
2. **Mk II**: Produced in 1967, this version featured a larger 289 cu in (4.7 L) Ford V8 engine. Only 633 units of the Mk II were built.

Both generations are highly regarded by classic car enthusiasts for their unique blend of British design and American muscle.
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Trim Levels
The Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 didn't have distinct trim levels like modern cars. Instead, it was offered with a standard set of features and options that could be added. Some of the notable features and options included:

- **260 cu in (4.3 L) Ford V8 engine**: This was the standard engine for the Mk 1.
- **Manual transmission**: The Mk 1 came with a 4-speed manual transmission.
- **Optional hardtop**: An optional removable hardtop was available for those who wanted a more enclosed driving experience.
- **Wire wheels**: Some models came with optional wire wheels for a more classic look.

The Mk 1A, a later version of the Mk 1, had some minor updates and improvements but still didn't have distinct trim levels.
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Engines
The Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 and Mk 2 were both equipped with powerful Ford V8 engines:

- **Mk 1**: This version featured a 260 cu in (4.3 L) Ford V8 engine.
- **Mk 2**: This version was upgraded to a larger 289 cu in (4.7 L) Ford V8 engine.

These engines provided the Tiger with impressive performance and a unique blend of British design and American muscle.
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Performance
The Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 and Mk 2 both offered impressive performance for their time, thanks to their powerful Ford V8 engines.

### Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1
- **Engine**: 260 cu in (4.3 L) Ford V8
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.4 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 118 mph (190 kph)
- **Quarter Mile**: Approximately 16.7 seconds at 85 mph

### Sunbeam Tiger Mk 2
- **Engine**: 289 cu in (4.7 L) Ford V8
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 122 mph (196 kph)
- **Quarter Mile**: Approximately 15 seconds

Both models were known for their strong acceleration and top speeds, making them popular among classic car enthusiasts and racers alike.
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Spares
You can find spare parts for the Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 and Mk 2 in both the UK and Ireland from several specialized suppliers:

### United Kingdom
1. **[Sunbeam Supreme](https://www.sunbeamsupreme.co.uk/)**: Located in Leicester, they offer a wide range of original and remanufactured parts for all Sunbeam Alpine and Tiger models.
2. **[Sunbeam Car Parts](https://sunbeamcarparts.co.uk/)**: They provide quality new spares for Sunbeam Alpine, Rapier, and Tiger models.
3. **[MEV Spares](https://www.mevspares.co.uk/Sunbeam-Alpine-and-Tiger-car-parts/)**: Specializing in parts for Sunbeam Alpine and Tiger cars

### Ireland
1. **[Rootes Parts Service](https://rootesparts.com/)**: Although based in the Netherlands, they ship parts to Ireland and have a wide range of parts for Rootes group cars, including the Sunbeam Tiger.
2. **[Classic Sunbeam Auto Parts](https://classicsunbeam.com/)**: They offer an extensive parts reproduction program and a large inventory of NOS and aftermarket parts.
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Specialists
There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can cater to a Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 or Mk 2:

1. **[Carrosserie](https://www.carrosserie.co.uk/classic-car-manufacturers/sunbeam-restoration/1965-sunbeam-tiger-mk1)**: They specialize in classic car restoration and have experience with Sunbeam Tigers.
2. **[Sunbeam Supreme](https://www.sunbeamsupreme.co.uk/)**: Although based in Leicester, they offer extensive services and parts for Sunbeam Tigers and can provide support and advice for owners in Northern Ireland.
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Racing
The Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1 and Mk 2 did compete in racing, and they had some notable successes:

### Sunbeam Tiger Mk 1
- **24 Hours of Le Mans (1964)**: Two extensively modified Mk 1 Tigers competed in the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans, but unfortunately, neither car completed the race.
- **European Rallies**: The Mk 1 Tiger also saw success in European rallies, where it performed well.
- **Drag Racing**: For two years, the Mk 1 Tiger held the American Hot Rod Association's national record over a quarter-mile drag strip.

### Sunbeam Tiger Mk 2
- **General Racing**: The Mk 2 Tiger continued to be raced from 1964 until 1973. While it wasn't the most successful race car ever built, it had plenty of activity at the track.

The Sunbeam Tiger's combination of British design and American muscle made it a unique and competitive car in various racing events.

Several notable drivers have raced the Sunbeam Tiger:

1. **Carroll Shelby**: The renowned American car designer and racing driver was involved in the development of the Sunbeam Tiger.
2. **Ken Miles**: A former Shelby race engineer, Ken Miles played a significant role in the development and testing of the Sunbeam Tiger.
3. **Peter Riley and Robin Turvey**: They competed in the Tulip Rally with the Sunbeam Tiger.
4. **Lewis and Hughes**: They drove the Sunbeam Tiger in the Alpine Rally.

These drivers contributed to the Tiger's racing legacy and helped establish its reputation as a powerful and competitive sports car.
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