1966 TRIUMPH TR4A

This Triumph TR4A is a characterful classic British sports car, which is presented in sound condition and has covered less than 5,000 miles since its engine was replaced 10 years ago. Under the bonnet is a 104bhp 2.1-litre inline-four, which drives the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission with full synchromesh. The odometer currently indicates 39,346 miles, though this is not believed to be correct.

Introduced in 1964 as the successor to the TR4, the TR4A retained many of the original model’s features, but did feature some minor cosmetic updates, including the large sidelight/indicator units on its front wings. Significantly, the TR4A also did away with the TR4’s leaf-spring rear suspension, replacing it with a coil spring setup as denoted by the IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) badging on its tail.

The TR4A was first registered on 8 July 1966 and has only had seven previous owners from new. The seventh registered keeper acquired the car in June 2013, and the seller acquired the car from this gentleman.

Overall, the car’s Michelotti-designed bodywork presents very well, with straight panels and with no known prior accident damage. It is believed that the light Wedgewood Blue paintwork may be original and it is in generally good shape, but does wear some signs of its age. There are some marks and patches of corrosion, including rust on the lower edge of the boot lid and small rust bubbles and scabs on the nearside rear sill, and also at the bottom of the nearside door.

All of the exterior brightwork is present and correct, and the TR4/TR4A’s signature two-piece hard top is in place. The car rides on a set of 15-inch wire wheels with polished spokes and silver-painted rims. All four are in fair condition, but would benefit from professional refurbishment in due course due to some general blemishes, blisters and imperfections.

In the cabin, blue leather upholstery covers the seats and door cards, and complements the bodywork particularly well. Both seats feature white piping on their edges and have almost certainly been re-trimmed in the past; now presenting in great shape, with no heavy wear or significant discolouration.

Matching blue carpets have been fitted throughout, and the dashboard is covered in a charming wood veneer, which presents very well, even with the minor discolouration on the glovebox’s lid. The wood-rimmed steering wheel is also in very good order, while the switches and period-correct Ruby radio have a handsome patina to their surfaces.

All of the interior switchgear works as it should, and the seller notes that while the ammeter sometimes indicates a discharge, the vehicle is charging well. The odometer may have a fault, or the speedometer may have been changed in the last five years, as there is a very slight mileage discrepancy between the 2015 and 2020 MOT tests.

This TR4A is reported to be in fine mechanical fettle, having been doted on by its former owner, who carried out routine maintenance on an annual basis, despite the car travelling an average of under 1,000 miles per year.

The original engine was replaced with another 2.1-litre unit by specialist Crown Classics in May 2010 at an indicated 34,277 miles. The suspension system, brakes, universal joints, steering system and clutch were also tended to, and an electric fan was fitted for improved reliability. In recent years, little other maintenance has been required. A stainless steel exhaust system has been fitted, and while there is a slight blow at the rear silencer, the owner plans to rectify this prior to the car’s handover.

Although it is exempt due to its age, the car’s last MOT test was conducted on 9 September 2020 at an indicated 39,275 miles and resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories. The seller states that all four of the Vredestein Sprint Classic tyres are in good condition and have 4-5mm of tread remaining; however, their age is unknown.

The car will be accompanied by its original handbook and history file, complete with a hand-written maintenance log from 1986, and a folder of its old tax discs.

This Triumph TR4A is a charming classic sports car, which blends Italian styling with period British engineering. Supplied with extensive service history and notes from its former keeper, it has been maintained to a high standard over the years. Today, this spritely convertible has a slightly ‘shabby chic’ cosmetic appearance, but its recently refreshed mechanical components mean that it is ready to be enjoyed as its designers intended.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.