Sunbeam Tiger Mk IA 260
The Sunbeam Tiger was essentially the same idea as the Shelby Cobra: take a lightweight British sports car and stuff a Ford V8 into it. Carroll Shelby's team actually designed the conversion, fitting the Ford 260ci V8 (later 289ci in the Mk II) into the Sunbeam Alpine's engine bay. The result was a car that offered V8 performance for thousands less than a Cobra. With 164 horsepower in a 2,400-pound car, the Tiger was brisk if not as fast as its more famous cousin. The Tiger was featured in the TV show 'Get Smart' and gained a loyal following. When Chrysler acquired Rootes Group (which made Sunbeam), the Ford-powered Tiger was quickly discontinued — Chrysler wouldn't sell a car with a Ford engine. Only 7,085 were built, making them significantly rarer than the Alpine.
Mark IA 260 and Mark II 289 are both desirable. Verify Tiger authenticity — many Alpines have been converted. Check chassis numbers against the Sunbeam Tiger Owner's Association registry. The Ford V8 and toploader gearbox are well-supported by the aftermarket. Rust is the main enemy. Values have risen dramatically.
The Tiger was produced 1964-1967. Mark I used the 260ci V8; Mark IA switched to the 260 with Ford toploader gearbox. Mark II (1967 only) used the 289ci V8. Chrysler's acquisition of Rootes Group ended Tiger production — Chrysler wouldn't sell a Ford-powered car. Only 7,085 total were built.