The Sunbeam Tiger is one of those rare classics that proves big performance can come in a compact, elegant package. Built in the 1960s by the Rootes Group, the Tiger took the stylish Sunbeam Alpine roadster and transformed it with American V8 power, first using a 260 cubic inch Ford engine and later a 289 in the Tiger Mk II. The result was a lightweight British sports car with muscular acceleration, a fantastic exhaust note, and genuine grand touring appeal. Its creation is famously linked to Carroll Shelby, who helped develop the prototype after his success with the AC Cobra, giving the Tiger a similar Anglo-American performance formula in a more understated shape.

For enthusiasts, the Sunbeam Tiger remains desirable because it blends charm, rarity, and surprising speed. Its compact engine bay, rear-wheel drive layout, front disc brakes, and sharp styling make it a rewarding classic to own, maintain, and upgrade carefully. It also earned cultural recognition as the car driven by Maxwell Smart in the opening credits of the 1960s television series Get Smart, adding a fun pop-culture connection to its motorsport and collector appeal. At Automotive Superstore, we understand the passion behind cars like the Tiger, whether you are preserving originality, improving reliability, or sourcing quality parts and accessories for weekend drives, club events, or long-term restoration projects.