Fantasy Junction

Description

1963 Triumph TR4 Surrey Top
s/n CT21834LO engine no. CT21835E
Red with Black Interior

Occupying a middle position in the British sports car hierarchy, Triumphs TRs were faster, larger, more sophisticated, and more prestigious than MGs, but not quite at the level of the Jaguars. The TR4 was a significant step forward over the TR3A that it replaced. With handsome styling by Michelotti, the car had a more sophisticated and purposeful appearance, as well as enhanced usability from the wind up windows and more spacious cabin and trunk. Mechanically, the car was improved too, with larger 2138cc engine (although a 1991cc version was available as a no-cost option for under 2 liter racing classes), rack and pinion steering, full synchromesh and optional overdrive. The cars were successfully raced in a wide variety of events and they are in many ways the quintessential British sports car. They sold exceptionally well in the United States, where enthusiastic and usually youthful owners snapped up the entertaining and relatively inexpensive cars to use in a variety of shenanigans, further cementing the American love affair with the sports car.

Because they were fairly abundant and entertaining, not many Triumph TRs survived in an unmolested state, but this is one such car. An original overdrive car equipped with the Surrey top which employed a fixed rear window and removable center section (about five years before the introduction of the Porsche Targa). A very solid example to begin with, this car was comprehensively restored in 2008 to very high standards. The restoration included almost every system and component. The engine was completely rebuilt with .040” over liners and pistons. The block was line-honed and the crank turned under .10”. The camshaft bearings and main and rod bearings were also renewed. The crankshaft was modified to accept a modern rear main seal to eliminate oil leakage. The hardened valve seats were also installed for use with unleaded fuel. A new Falcon stainless steel exhaust was fitted, and ignition system rebuilt with new condenser, points, and cap. A new timing chain was fitted, and new studs for the head and manifolds also fitted. The ancillaries were rebuilt or replaced, including starter, generator, water pump, radiator, and oil pump. The flywheel was resurfaced and a new clutch installed as well. The fuel tank was restored and a spin on oil filter conversion fitted.

The frame is straight and was stripped, dipped, primed, and then painted as part of the restoration. The body had no evidence of crash damage when it was disassembled, and suffered only minor corrosion damage, and affected areas were correctly repaired or replaced before the Glasurit paintwork was applied. New rubber was fitted throughout the car and the brakes were rebuilt with stainless soft lines, new pads, new stainless pucks for the front calipers, and new hard brake lines. The front suspension was completely rebuilt and the American Racing mags refinished.

The car is in excellent cosmetic condition, with a straight and solid body that has been painted to very good standards. There are almost no signs of wear or damage, just a star on the front deck lid. The panels are straight and fit well. The door gaps are even, but a bit wide. The glazing is very good throughout, as is the badging and trim. The car has its soft top but no hard top. There are light scratches in the rear window. The chrome is very good to excellent, with minor pitting on the door handles. The bumpers are excellent and the car is exceptionally nice compared to the condition in which many Triumphs are presented.

The interior has been beautifully redone to standards better than new, with leather seats with white piping. The wood is excellent and has been correctly restored, with not too much gloss and the correct grain. The gauges are in good but not freshly restored condition. A lovely wood-rimmed steering wheel has been fitted, which is excellent, although the original black banjo steering wheel is also included. The switches, controls, and dashboard are in excellent shape. The carpets are also extremely nice.

The engine compartment is extremely clean throughout. The appearance is generally quite correct, with twin SU carburetors with factory air cleaners, Lucas labeled battery, and red-painted inner fenders rather than the black that so many of these cars seem to pick up. The level of detail and quality of work in the engine compartment is very high and speaks to the standards to which this car was restored. The trunk was also thoroughly restored and has a crisp appearance with carpeting in place, as well as with the floor panel removed.

The car runs and drives very well, starting easily and producing good power. The engine is well tuned. The gearbox has good synchromesh and, the chassis and suspension are tight and confidence-inspiring. The brakes are effective and stop the car evenly, and the car is pleasure to drive.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire an outstanding TR4. Desirably equipped with Surrey Top and overdrive, the car was restored to extremely high standards and remains very fresh. It is complete with tool roll, owner’s manual, and a binder containing extensive invoices from the restoration.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608