Image of 1967 Sunbeam Tiger, sourced from www.charlescrail.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The roar of a V8 engine nestled in a British sports car body is an unlikely combination that defines the 1967 Sunbeam Tiger. Born from the partnership between Sunbeam, a marque of the Rootes Group, and Carroll Shelby, the mastermind behind the Shelby Cobra, the Tiger stands as a testament to Anglo-American automotive synergy. This classic roadster emerged as Britain's answer to the burgeoning American muscle car era, offering a unique blend of style and performance. A notable moment in its history was when the Tiger served as the getaway car in the iconic 1960s television series "Get Smart," cementing its cool factor in popular culture.

Design and Innovation

The 1967 Sunbeam Tiger boasted a muscular yet sophisticated exterior styling that turned heads. Its long hood and short rear deck were hallmarks of sports car design, while the rounded contours and subtle chrome accents exuded European elegance. Inside, drivers were greeted with a no-nonsense cockpit featuring leatherette seats, a wood-veneer dashboard, and full instrumentation that prioritized function over luxury. Despite its compact dimensions, the Tiger was ahead of its time with rack-and-pinion steering and optional overdrive. Color options ranged from stately Arctic White to vibrant Carnival Red, with Mediterranean Blue being a popular choice among enthusiasts. The most iconic body style was the convertible, complete with a snug-fitting soft top for open-air motoring.

Historical Significance

The Sunbeam Tiger's impact on automotive design was profound, blending American V8 power with British sports car handling. It set itself apart with its Shelby-tuned Ford 260 or later 289 cubic inch engine—a bold move at a time when most British sports cars relied on smaller, less powerful engines. This Anglo-American hybrid influenced future collaborations and paved the way for other high-performance European cars with American heartbeats.

Performance and Handling

With a top speed approaching 120 mph and capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds, the '67 Tiger was no slouch in performance. Its handling characteristics were equally impressive; it managed to maintain poise on winding roads despite its front-heavy V8 engine. Drivers often reported an exhilarating driving experience—the throaty growl of the V8, the wind rushing by in an open-top cruise, and a visceral connection to the road that modern vehicles struggle to replicate.

Ownership Experience

The Sunbeam Tiger was versatile enough to be used as a daily driver or weekend showpiece, with some owners even taking it onto the racetrack. Maintenance could be straightforward due to its Ford-sourced mechanical components; however, finding body parts or specific interior trim pieces could pose challenges. Overall reliability was generally good for those who kept up with regular upkeep.

Fun Facts

A few Tigers were specially prepared for rally and endurance racing, showcasing their robustness. Celebrity ownerships included Dean Martin and Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull. Despite criticisms over limited cabin space and heat dissipation issues due to the cramped engine bay, enthusiasts have always cherished the Tiger's unique character.

Collector's Information

The current value range for collectors can vary widely based on condition but typically spans from $50,000 to well over $150,000 for pristine examples. Approximately 7,000 Tigers were produced during its entire production run from 1964 to 1967, making it relatively rare compared to other sports cars of its time. The market has seen an appreciation in value for well-maintained or restored Tigers due to their rarity and historical significance.

Conclusion

The 1967 Sunbeam Tiger represents an audacious experiment in automotive engineering that paid off handsomely. It's a vehicle that captures the spirit of two nations—a quintessentially British roadster with an all-American heart—and continues to be celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe. Whether prowling city streets or gracing car shows with its timeless allure, the Tiger remains an enduring symbol of cross-continental collaboration and high-octane excitement.

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Accessory Floor Mat - 12"X17"-AC 31Accessory Floor Mat - made of high quality black rubber with molded original emblem. Also designed to be sewn into new carpets. 12"X17", Each

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/2" wide X 3-1/2" long-CB 82Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-1/2" wide X 3-1/2" long. Pair

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 6-1/4" I.D. Pair-HR 4Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 6-1/4" I.D. Pair

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Trunk Hinge Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 7-1/8" long-MP 10-ATrunk Hinge Pads. 1-3/8" wide X 7-1/8" long. 4-Piece Set R&L

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Windshield Wiper Transmission Pad-MP 10-BWindshield Wiper Transmission Pad. 1-1/8" wide X 1-5/8" long. Each

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Top Hold-down Pad. 2-1/2" wide X 1-1/2" long. Each-MP 10-DTop Hold-down Pad. 2-1/2" wide X 1-1/2" long. Each

1967 Sunbeam Tiger Spring Shackle Rubber Insulators-RP 125Spring Shackle Rubber Insulators. 1" wide X 6-3/4" long each. 12-Piece Set