The person listing this "Damiler" Tiger states that it is a replica so
clearly this isn't an original prototype car.
However, I wouldn't doubt that Rootes actually attempted to physically
fit an Alfa engine or the Damiler engine - unfortunately without good
results - probably too much modification required. There is still a
lot of Sunbeam history to be uncovered -- but probably never will due
to a lack of first hand documents.
One of the more surprising history details I have come across include
two factory built race cars sent to the U.S in 1963. Two Series III
Alpine appear to have been built in the Rootes competition department
and were provided to Ken Miles and Bob Grossman in 1963 to race in
various SCCA races. True race cars built in the competition
department to 1962 Sebring specifications. Who knew these ended up
in the U.S.?
I have never found any Sunbeam books that mention these two cars but I
have H.J. Meyer who tells me he bought the Grossman car from Rootes.
Then there are photos of the cars which support that these cars were
prepared similar to the 1962 Sebring Alpine. I also received a letter
which John Panks had written to H.J. Meyer which supports the decision
to participate in the SCCA races versus the 1963 Sebring race. There
is even mention of the Grossman car specially prepared by Rootes in a
1963 Competition press.
I think there is Sunbeam history still to be unearth. Unfortunately,
so few first hand documents still exist.
BTW< the LHD Series III that Grossman raced is still missing. Last
information I have about this car is that it was owned by Jim Latimer
in the Detroit area. Jim, I believe, moved to Northeastern, Ohio in
later years (1970's). So, if you run across a LHD, dark green Series
III (color code #86) check it out very closely.
Steve Silverstein
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