Lot 269 - 1966 Triumph TR4A IRS
| Lot Number | 269 |
| Registration | SVN 527D |
| Chassis Number | CTC/61587L |
| Engine Number | CT/61576-E |
| Odometer reading | 29,520 miles |
| Result | Sold - £25,200 |
- Fresh restoration
- Long term ownership
- Overdrive upgrade
Produced between 1961 and 1967, the Triumph TR4 combined a new, modern, and aggressive body design by famed Italian stylist, Giovanni Michelotti, with the basic chassis of the previous TR3A. The TR4 also improved passenger comfort with wind-up windows, face-level ventilation, and an optional hardtop. When equipped with the optional overdrive, the TR4 was good for a top speed of almost 110mph. Following on from the TR4, the new TR4A was phased in smoothly at the beginning of 1965 and introduced an all-new independent rear suspension system (IRS), which provided exceptional rear-wheel camber control with excellent wheel travel while softer springs improved the ride quality. The press was happy to see an all-independent car, and Triumph was pleased to be the first British car manufacturer to have all-independent suspensions under every car in their line-up. At the Sebring 12 Hours in 1966, ample proof of the validity of the IRS was provided when three IRS-equipped TR4As achieved a remarkable 1-2-3 class victory.
Purchased by the vendor in April 2000 whilst living and working in the U.S. he initially did general maintenance to the car to keep it roadworthy as his daily driver. It was only when he moved back to the UK and repatriated the car along with him in 2003 that he started the long process of fully restoring the car. Work started in earnest in 2004 and the car was completely dismantled and rebuilt from the ground up. A true ‘body off’ restoration, every element of the car was gone through. During the process, the vendor took the opportunity to rebuild its original gearbox into a correct, A type overdrive specification, whilst maintaining its ‘numbers matching’ prowess and improving its cruising drivability. The speedometer was also recalibrated at the same time to read correctly with the overdrive gearbox upgrade. The vendor diligently kept a record of the car’s use and service record in a dedicated diary and the car is also supplied with its BMI Heritage Certificate confirming the car is still in its original colour specification of Triumph Racing Green with leather black interior (new) and hood, (also new). It also benefits from a new Walnut dashboard, wool carpets and a new set of MWS Chrome wire wheels shod with a new set of Michelin XZX tyres.
Supplied with a V5C registration document, BMI Heritage Certificate, owner’s diary, owner’s handbook and file full of receipts and history of the car’s life, as well as two sets of original keys, a complete toolkit and jack and fitted with a Bluetooth DAB radio. Having been despatched to the U.S. at the very end of 1965, the car was well optioned from new with leather seats and sixty spoke wire wheels. Presented in freshly restored condition and as clean underneath as it is on top, this beautiful TR4A is ready to hit the road again and be admired wherever it goes, with the vendor reporting the car to run and drive extremely well.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.