Also still in the hunt here. It is so great that you folks have helped me so much. I've learned a ton (lots more to go!) and it's been fun.
I can now at least quantify my 'best candidate' for purchase as an authenticated Tiger that is -
1. An original color car.
2. No white (sorry, totally personal reasons)
3. No existing rust; obviously correctly repaired is okay.
4. Cooling mods, engine mods fine.
5. Body mods (wheel arch cuts, valance cuts, etc) not fine
6. Would love a hardtop, not required
I'd go for a strong driver #3 quality, or stretch to a 1.5 quality car. Accordingly, I've adjusted my price range. It'd be "25 and up", with the 'up' being of commensurate quality to the range.
I'm very interested to hear what's out there. If not for me, I promise to pass it along to help you, the cause, the enthusiasm.
Thanks,