Triumph TR3 Roadster 1960
General description :
Like many automobile manufacturers of the early twentieth century, Triumph got its start in the bicycle business, starting in 1887. Triumph followed the natural progression to the new world of motorcycles near the turn of the century, followed by a 3-wheeled cyclecar in 1903. It wasn’t until twenty years later that they built their first four-wheeled motorcar, and after a few hit-and-miss years, the company’s early automotive success came with the Super Seven of 1928.
After separating the motorcycle and automobile businesses in 1936, the struggling four-wheel side of Triumph was acquired by Standard Motor Company three years later. Triumph finally found its sweet spot with the pretty and lithe TR2 sports car of 1953, which had its sights set squarely on the burgeoning American roadster market. Powered by a 1,991-cc overhead-valve inline-four sourced from the Standard line and wrapped in a distinct and stylish body, the short-lived TR2 formed the basis for the enormously successful TR3, which in turn set the stage for the iconic TR series of sports cars that followed.
The TR3’s shape evolved directly from the TR2, carrying over the earlier car’s curvaceous wings, inset headlamp pods, and a dramatically cut-down cockpit that was akin to a Jaguar XK120 in miniature. It was revised in 1957 (unofficially becoming the “TR3A”), gaining a full-width alloy grille and other subtle changes. Performance was also quite brisk thanks to the torquey twin-carb inline-four, rated for 100 horsepower in later iterations, giving the TR3 sufficient grunt to outpace its rivals from MG handily. The TR3 earned Triumph a place as a fixture of the British sports car industry, with millions of loyal enthusiasts worldwide.
Offered here is a desirable later-production 1960 “TR3A,” pleasingly restored in the classic livery of British Racing Green over a tan interior. It is the subject of an attractive driver-quality cosmetic restoration, with good quality paintwork and detailing. Since its restoration, it appears well maintained and remains delightfully appealing, being well-suited for regular exercise in club-level events, rallies, or weekend excursions in the countryside. Exterior brightwork and trim are in excellent condition, including the bumpers, alloy grille, and chrome wire wheels. The wheels wear Vredestein Sprint Classic radials, which give it the proper stance and looks, paired with modern, surefooted handling.
The tan upholstery provides a pleasing contrast to the dark green paint. Seats, dash, door cards, and cockpit rails are trimmed using authentic-style materials. The cockpit is in good overall condition, displaying some indications of regular use, including light soiling of the carpets and imperfections of the seat cover fit. Instruments and switchgear are authentic, period-correct items, and it retains the original banjo steering wheel along with a walnut AMCO shift knob. The top, covered in proper tan vinyl, stows neatly behind the seats and features a matching boot cover.
Lifting the bonnet reveals Triumph’s robust little twin-carb OHV four. This car’s engine bay is orderly, with driver-level detailing and signs of use and maintenance. It has been updated with a spin-on oil filter adapter for ease of service, and the carbs are topped with correct AC pancake air filters. The engine runs well, sending power through a factory four-speed gearbox and on to the rear wheels via a newly serviced driveshaft. Suspension and undercarriage components are similarly tidy and orderly, with signs of road use in keeping with this car’s usable character.
Lightweight, elegantly simple, and with punchy performance, the TR3 is the quintessential classic British roadster, and this fine example is ready for its next enthusiastic caretaker.
Offers welcome and trades considered
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6752
1960 Triumph TR3 Roadster is listed sold on ClassicDigest in St. Louis by Mark Hyman for $34500.
Car Facts
Car type : Car Make : Triumph Model : TR3 Model Version : Roadster Engine size : 0.0 Model Year : 1960 Sub type : Convertible Location : Missouri
Sold
Seller Information
Sold
People who viewed this Triumph TR3 also viewed similar Triumph listed at ClassicDigest
Triumph TR3
Prés Seigneurs
Triumph TR3
36950 €
Waalwijk
Triumph TR3
10800 €
Oldenzaal
Triumph TR3
44950 €
Aalter
Triumph TR3
7950 $
Astoria
Other cars listed for sale by this dealer
AC Cobra 289
195000$
Missouri
Other Other
142500$
Missouri
Packard Twelve
139500$
Missouri
Ferrari Testarossa
159500$
Missouri
Ferrari 330 GTS
2275000$
Missouri
About Triumph
Triumph, a name synonymous with classic sports cars and innovative designs, has a rich and storied history in the automotive world.The Triumph story began in the late 19th century when the company originally produced bicycles and then expanded into motorcycles. However, it was in the 1920s that Triumph ventured into the production of automobiles. Over the years, Triumph became renowned for its high-quality vehicles that combined performance with style.
One of Triumph's most iconic models was the TR3, introduced in the late 1950s. It was a classic British sports car, loved for its simple yet elegant design and thrilling driving experience. The TR3 was a symbol of affordable sports car enjoyment, and it set the stage for a series of successful TR models, including the TR4, TR5, and TR6.
In addition to sports cars, Triumph made a name for itself with Michelotti-designed sedans. The Triumph Herald, introduced in the early 1960s, was a compact family car that boasted stylish design and solid engineering. Later on, the Triumph 2000 and 2500 sedans catered to a more upscale market and earned a reputation for their comfortable rides and elegant looks.
However, despite its successes, Triumph faced numerous challenges over the years, including financial difficulties and ownership changes. In the 1980s, British Leyland, the company that owned Triumph, underwent significant restructuring, and the Triumph brand was gradually phased out.
The demise of Triumph was indeed sad and, to some extent, disgraceful. The company that had produced beloved sports cars and well-regarded sedans was slowly fading away. In 1984, the last Triumph-badged car rolled off the production line, marking the end of an era.
Although the Triumph name disappeared, its legacy lives on. Enthusiasts and collectors continue to cherish classic Triumph sports cars like the TR3, TR6, and Spitfire, as well as the unique charm of Triumph sedans. Triumph remains a symbol of British automotive heritage and the enduring appeal of classic sports cars.
In conclusion, Triumph's history is a blend of classic sports car excellence and innovative sedan design. Its sad and disgraceful demise serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many automakers over the years, but the spirit of Triumph lives on in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts around the world.