Dave,
Though less than what you found in the MGB camp there are those in the
Tiger camp that voice their opinion regarding Tiger originality. It is a tough
call because it is someone elses car...., but if it is a very original Tiger
that they are modifying it does mean one less original example.
It is very interesting that if there is a "name" behind any modifications
then that is looked upon as rare and better than an original. However, a
regular guy can modify their Tiger just as inovatively and be called out for
not keeping it original. So there does seem to be a double standard.
I was only 7 years old when the Tiger hit the streets, but it is now my
opinion that the greatest cause to start modifications (and then it snowballs
from there) is the 2bbl carburetor it came with and the lack of applying
traction to the ground. Was a car really a CAR unless it had a 4bbl back in
the 60's & 70's? Hence, more than other cars a Tiger was just asking to be
modified and on it went.
Looked at by today's standard do you think any of these Rice guys are
worried today about the future value of there cars? I doubt it. Most probably
just want to go fast and aren't thinking beyond their next race. However, some
of their cars might have a Tiger like status in 20-40 years. And, only if
their modifications have a "name" behind them will the modifications not
detract from the value of the car.
I stumbled upon Tigers United back in '97 while on vacation. A Tiger was
always on my top 5 list, but being a budget minded guy it seemed too expensive
to engage with. I remember while there I saw a car with rear flairs, side
vents, (maybe side exhaust???), slotted aluminum wheels and initially thought
"how dated, that car is So... 70's." Today I have adiffrerent opinion of that
car. Now (in my mind) it represents a period in time that the Tiger passed
through and is what I regard one of the better (and few) examples of a 70's
era Tiger. Hence, I see an inherant value in what that car represents.
I would say that if one has a very original Tiger strive to keep it that
way. Otherwise, sell it and buy a Tiger that is modified (likely cost
prohibitive to originality) and put your own signature on it. In my case my
Tiger (purchased 2000) cost $3,200 to the DMV (less the removeable hard top
uninstalled front clip and $800 in new parts I had to buy with it or $5,100
total). The original 260 had been replaced with a 289. The interior was "Elvis
slept here" red velvet. Significant amounts of sheet metal had to be replaced.
This car was one turn of the wheel away from the crusher. So, if anyone has a
gripe regarding my crossmember mods, fuse box rewiring, lower fan shroud,
Datsun master cylinder, etc. they have an argument on their
hands. I'm glad to hear that you feel at home on the list. I find the
squabbles amusing, but more so the help to be priceless regardless of the
opinions of the one who has been helpful (that I might otherwise disagree
with).
Regards, Tom Witt
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