Lot 110 - 1957 Triumph TR3A

‘Honest John’ correctly noted that the TR line was ‘all about evolution and refining of the breed’. So, although there was very little to distinguish the TR3 from the TR2, it was usefully improved. Behind the new egg-crate grille covering the radiator-cooling intake was a more powerful engine thanks to its bigger SU carburettors. Furthermore, in 1956, the main development came when it became the first British car to be fitted with disc brakes, made by Girling, as standard. Visually, the TR3A, as it became known, had a widened grille, external door handles and a toolkit.

Sales of the TR3 picked up as a result of the improvements and the USA became an important export market. Indeed, this example, originally an Arizona car, was imported back home in 1999 and converted to righthand drive. It has remained in the vendors ownership since 2013 and had over £20,000 spent to bring it up to the quality expected of its new custodian. All bills and invoices are available since then with MoT test certificates dating back to 2004. Over £10,000 was spent in late 2018 replacing and repairing sills, lower front wings and rear threequarters followed by a photographic bare metal respray of these areas by Triumph specialists. In addition, an unleaded and alternator conversion has taken place with a new wiring loom and rack & pinion conversion in mid-2013. Finally, in a nod to modern motoring, a new cooling system hoses and Kenlowe fan have been installed. It should be noted however, that time does not stand still and various ongoing repairs will be required to both bodywork and trim. Complete with wire wheels, this sharp-looking TR3A is both quick and of good quality. Early registration is recommended.

Interested parties should note that this example not only comes with an overdrive gearbox but also complete with a full soft-top, sidescreens and tonneau cover.