For Sale: 1965 Sunbeam Tiger in Madisonville, Texas

A true Anglo-American icon, this 1965 Sunbeam Tiger Mk1 blends British roadster charm with Ford small-block muscle. Built by Jensen in West Bromwich and originally finished in Carnival Red over black vinyl, this early-production Tiger has been tastefully restored and upgraded for spirited driving while preserving its period-correct character.

This isn't a clone or a cobbled-together conversion — it's a real-deal Mk1 Tiger with the right bones, the right stance, and the right upgrades. The 289 V8 and Toploader combo delivers authentic small-block punch, while the Panasport Z wheels and Yokohama tires give it a purposeful, road-ready presence. Whether you're chasing ribbons at British car shows or carving up backroads, this Tiger is ready to run.

FEATURES

• 📜 Provenance & Highlights
• VIN B9471368 — early Mk1 Tiger built by Jensen Motors
• Originally Carnival Red (2501) with black vinyl interior (T12KA)
• Now finished in triple black — exterior, interior, and top
• Retains Tiger-specific Toploader transmission and Salisbury rear axle
• Tasteful upgrades for drivability without compromising originality
• Clean engine bay, solid undercarriage, and crisp exhaust note
• 🔧 Drivetrain & Mechanical
• Engine: 1965 Ford 289 CID V8 (casting C5AE-6015E)
• Intake: Edelbrock Torker 289 aluminum manifold
• Carburetor: Holley 4-barrel with manual choke
• Ignition: Factory-style distributor with upgraded internals
• Transmission: Ford Toploader 4-speed (Tag HEHE 014582) — Tiger-correct rear-shift configuration
• Rear Axle: Original Salisbury differential (believed 3.31:1)
• Exhaust: Custom stainless dual exhaust — crisp tone, long-term durability
• Cooling: Aluminum radiator with electric fan
• 🛞 Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
• Brakes: Factory front disc / rear drum setup — reliable and balanced
• Suspension: Stock geometry with updated bushings and shocks 
• Wheels: 15" Panasport Z alloy wheels, silver finish — lightweight and motorsport-inspired
• Tires: Yokohama 205/50R15 — performance street compound with period-correct sizing and stance
• 🎨 Exterior & Interior
• Paint: Refinished in gloss black — deep shine, clean lines
• Top: Black vinyl convertible top — tight fit, clear rear window
• Interior: Black vinyl bucket seats, matching dash and trim
• Gauges: Smiths instrumentation with functional tach, oil, temp, and fuel
• Shifter: Factory-style short-throw 4-speed with correct Tiger boot and knob