Lot 117: Triumph TR4

Standard-Triumph tasked Italian stylist Michelotti with re-styling its TR range and the resulting design went into production as the TR4. The TR4 would have to battle with other new sports cars such as the MGB and Austin Healey 3000 in the all important export markets so the model was thankfully well received. Underneath the sleek TR4 body was the same old 1991cc Standard Vanguard engine which was quickly changed for a more powerful 2138cc unit with twin carburettors. The TR4 came complete with wind-up windows ( the old TR2/3 coped with side-screens) and could be specified with a clever hardtop known as the "Surrey" top. The Surrey top consisted of a fixed rear screen and a removable centre section, thus giving the car a useful compromise between open top and closed car comfort. Despite some concerns from Triumph dealers, the TR4 proved very successful and continued the rugged, hairy-chested image that the previous TR's had enjoyed. It became a celebrated rally car in Europe and the UK during early to mid-sixties. In America, the TR4 also saw a number of racing successes, even winning an SCCA class championship as late as 1991. In Australia the TR4 was a common site at hill-climb events and various club rallies and circuit racing events. Offered here is a TR4, which has been in the same hands for 40 years and covered just 31000 miles. It has been the subject of a sympathetic refurbishment, which has only recently been completed and is said to drive extremely well. Finished in Old English White the car is equipped with new tyres and new hood but is predominately original. The history file includes 17 MoT certificates, much service history and the original Buff Log Book. A very rare opportunity to acquire such a low mileage example of this typically British sports-car from the 1960's.