Lot 033: 1974 Triumph Stag

Introduced in June 1970, the Triumph Stag was conceived as a luxury convertible sportscar to rival the likes of the R107-series Mercedes-Benz SL. As such, it came equipped with electric windows, power-assisted rack and pinion steering and servo-backed disc / drum brakes as standard. Based around a two-door monocoque bodyshell (stylist Giovanni Michelotti had physically shortened a pre-production Triumph 2000 saloon in order to fashion the initial prototype), the newcomer featured all-round independent suspension (McPherson strut front / semi-trailing arm rear) and a well laid-out 2+2 cabin. Neatly integrated, the substantial roll-over hoop that joined the B-pillars gained extra strength from a T-bar link to the windscreen frame. With some 145bhp and 167lbft of torque on tap from its bespoke 2997cc SOHC V8 engine, the model was reputedly capable of 120mph. Available with a choice of four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission all but the earliest Stags benefited from both hard- and soft-top roofs. Despite being in production for seven years during which time 25,877 cars were made, a mere 9,000 or so are thought to have survived. Finished in red with black leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good overall" condition. Reportedly treated to "an extensive restoration by a Stag specialist in 1989 at a cost of £14,500", 'NVO 189M' is understood to still "run and drive superbly". Benefiting from both hardtop and soft-top roofs this desirable manual Stag is offered for sale with "restoration photos / bills, sundry paperwork dating back to 1985" and MOT certificate valid until October 2008.