Lot 071: 1974 TRIUMPH STAG

"It's easy to see why the Triumph Stag should be such a sought after classic. A bad one may indeed be a truly horrible experience, but get behind the wheel of a good one and it's bliss, sheer bliss!" (Your Classic magazine June 1991). Fruit of Giovanni Michelotti's long association with Triumph, the Stag was launched in 1970. A handsome four-seater convertible, it featured all round independent coil-sprung suspension, power assisted rack and pinion steering and disc/drum brakes. Conceived as a rival to products from Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo and Lancia, it was well received by the contemporary press. Powered by a 3-litre V8 engine mated to either four-speed manual or automatic transmission, it proved to be a fast and very capable grand tourer. Finished in red with black vinyl upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, three-speed automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly "imported from the Channel Islands in 1979", 'NHP 31M' is further understood to have had "all the needed engine upgrades". Stated to be a "very well looked after car" that "has been in regular use", the Stag is believed to have covered just 74,250 miles from new. Riding on alloy wheels, this practical four-seater V8 convertible is offered for sale with history file (including "a large amount of bills") and MOT certificate valid until June 2006.