Description
This is a genuine V5 registered Tiger, with a correct 260ci (4. 3 litre) small block Ford V8. Though a later 289ci was fitted in the past from a MK2 Tiger, the powerplant in-situ today was sourced and built to homologated FIA specification by Don Law (of Jaguar XJ220 fame) in 2002. Power output of a standard MK1 Tiger is reputedly 164BHP – this example feels like it could easily be pushing out an additional 100BHP. It sounds superb too owing to the big-bore twin-exhaust, with complimentary and satisfying induction noises originating from the 4-Barrell Holley carburettor. It is blisteringly quick yet well mannered and tractable. Featuring anti-tramp bars and a Salisbury POWR-LOK limited-slip differential the ample power is able to be unleashed predictably.
The car sits on replica minilite alloy-wheels which are shod with reassuringly grippy AVON radial tyres. Residing at the front are Girling discs with AP callipers, with drum brakes remaining at the rear. The gearbox is a Borg Warner T10 4-speed which is precise and has an aided change thanks to a Hurst shifter. In the boot is a large capacity alloy fuel cell. Overheating is a very well-documented issue with Tiger’s - a consequence of shoe-horning a big hot all-iron lump in a confined space. A fan override switch is therefore present to reassure and mitigate such unfortunate circumstances.
The car was extensively modified in the 1990’s by Brown and Gammons of Hertfordshire - notable for specialising in the MG marque. The proprietor, Ron Gammons, being no stranger to V8 powered muscle cars himself having campaigned a Devin-Chevrolet SS at notable venues which include Goodwood. The Tiger’s owner at this time was a serious collector whom seemingly divided his time between the USA and UK. He raced at the Le Mans classic in a Jaguar C Type (which accompanied a D-Type in the fleet also). The intention with the Tiger was to build a car that was capable of both rallying and participating in International driving events. Consequently there are bills and correspondence within the enormous history file depicting specific expenditure in preparation for the ‘Classic Adelaide’ and more locally the ‘Tour Britannia’. The required MSA technical passport for the aforementioned trip to Australia is dated 28/ 10/ 2009 and homologation papers accompany this in the history file. There are lots of old MOT’s and club magazines etc too.
The Tiger has a half-cage/ roll-hoop and removable hard top. The soft top is still present and the interior overall presents tremendously well, especially for a competition prepared car. There are excellent green-piped, black period style bucket seats equipped with four-point harnesses, along with bright and fresh looking green carpets. The interior also features a pleasingly tactile leather-rimmed Mota-Lita wheel. The valuable Halda ‘Twinmaster’ rally tripmeter further gives away the competition-prepped credentials, but also adds to the occasion - even if trundling to the shops. Equally the Mallory adjustable shift-light and rev-limiter does the same. (The car also features a Mallory upgraded distributor).
The body is satisfyingly straight with very good paint. The vented bonnet is a fibreglass item and does not show any signs of cracking or crazing. This was a period option over the steel alternative. As with the steel panels the underside appears solid too and this can be inspected at our premises on a ramp for reassurance. NEV 2C is a fine and purposeful example of the desirable MK1 Tiger that is ready and capable of pottering about sedately, or be driven in angst. It is your chance to buy a genuine Carroll Shelby derived muscle car, and thus most genuine alternative to an AC Cobra - at a fraction of the price!
