Shelby's Other Cobra... [PIC]

Under the Rootes Group, the Sunbeam Alpine was released in 1959. Wanting to get into some international racing to promote sales, they found the little 4 cylinder woefully inadequate. Without the resources to develop their own engine, initially they went to Ferrari to have them work their magic one their engine, but negotiations failed. Looking to America for a small V8 as suggested by Jack Brabham, they came upon Ford's 260 V8 which weighed only 400 lbs and might just fit. They gave  $800 to Ken Miles to build a prototype that would link to a 2 speed automatic. It worked. after seeing Carroll Shelby's success with the AC roadster, they went to him for something more finished and definitive. Shelby finished the white Alpine and included a Ford 4 speed manual. His California representative that contracted with Shelby sent a glowing report after the car was road tested to Brain Rootes that it would give Jaguar a run for their money. Rootes decided to go into production and Shelby was itching for the contract. Ultimately Rootes gave the contract to Jensen with Shelby getting a per ynit royalty . Lord Rootes, the guy at the top, was initially furious that all this went on without his knowledge, but after driving the car, immediately got on the phone to Henry Ford ll to order 3000 engines and gear boxes. Some modifications were necessary in production including rack and pinion steering and suspension upgrades. It was found that the weight of this car was similar to the Alpine as well a the front/rear weight at 58/42. From 1964-1967, 7083 were built with the last year's run receiving Ford's 289 V8. Production ceased when Chrysler bought Rootes and didn't have a V8 of their own that would fit.

This cute little Automodello model replicated the first RHD Tiger. As a side note, originally the Tiger was to be calles the "Thunderbolt". I wonder if it was nixed because of Ford's Fairlane drag car that was given the same name.