Every so often, a real classic surfaces after years of quiet storage, and this 1965 Sunbeam Tiger Mk1, listed on eBay, is exactly that kind of find. According to the seller, it’s the first time in more than 25 years that this Tiger has come to market. The car reportedly spent its recent life garage-kept and remains in very good condition, with the seller describing it as largely original and well preserved.
The Tiger is one of those rare hybrids of British design and American muscle. Built by the Rootes Group and famously powered by a 260 cubic-inch Ford V8, the Mk1 offered the kind of performance that rivaled many American sports cars of its time, wrapped in the compact, elegant body of the Sunbeam Alpine. Back in the mid-1960s, this was a bold experiment that worked, and it’s one reason Tigers are so sought after today.
This particular example displays 10,233 miles on the odometer and features a red exterior over a tan interior, paired with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The seller notes that the interior is original, which adds to its authenticity, and that the engine starts easily and runs well. They mention having driven the car once, describing it as driving very well for its age.
There are, of course, a few miscellaneous repairs needed, though no major issues are listed. The seller adds that it appears to wear aftermarket wheels, but the car will include original documentation and the owner’s manual, as well as a binder of additional information. Interestingly, it’s not yet Sunbeam Certified, but the seller has an appointment scheduled with the Tiger Association in November—a step that could verify its originality and add value for future owners.
Despite calling themselves “not an antique car individual,” the seller seems to have been a good steward of this classic. They note being a motivated seller, though they aren’t in a rush, just looking to “pass the torch to a more sophisticated owner.” That kind of candid honesty is refreshing, and it suggests this Tiger has been looked after rather than flipped.
With its clean title, originality, and turn-key drivability, this ’65 Tiger looks like a great opportunity for someone who wants to enjoy one of the best Anglo-American collaborations of the era.
Would you restore this Sunbeam Tiger or keep it as a preserved driver with history?
That’s a great looking car, what’s to restore? Do note that air cleaner is not correct, nor is it filtering anything. Those had a flimsy foam filter that with its time sitting has I would assume has fallen apart. Injest any dust or sand and that little 260 could need an expensive rebuild. Ask me how I know, just did a 289 with the good parts machine work and it was not cheap. These are cool little sports cars and would love to own one. But the toy box is full.
This car has been “personalized” and with the few pics provided, shows not much original cosmetics left. Would be helpful to show some of the underside since thats where trouble hides on these. Todays market for Tigers is quite soft and 49, 000 BIN is very optimistic. Take someone with you who knows the brand when checking it out. Dont buy it without in person inspection.
A shoe phone and “dome of silence” were dealer only accessories. Nice find!
Missed it by THAT much! LOL!
Nice looking Tiger. A few items that have been changed from original but do not detract from its overall condition. Air cleaner and valve cover have been changed, the interior has been changed and not the original color. Rims are not original but they look good on the Tiger. Any body work or underside work? The paint is certainly not original. If I didn’t have a Tiger and an Alpine in the garage this would be tempting. I would like to see the VIN plate to verify a few things. Good luck with the TAC, that will make things very clear.
Auction ended? Great looking little Tiger.
I just inspected a series I Tiger last week. The same color with black interior. The car was originally from San Diego and after inspection, we decided that it was not an original Tiger. Too bad too, as the price was right!
Unsafe at any speed.
It’s a Sunbeam Tiger, not a Corvair
Who in their right mind would want to buy a Tiger and expect to be safe?