Fantasy Junction

Description

1966 Triumph TR4A
s/n CRC61996
Black 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.

The TR4 was produced from 1961 to 1965, at which point it was superseded by the TR4A, which while visually similar featured an exciting and sophisticated addition: independent rear suspension. So significant was the introduction of IRS that a badge was added to the trunk lid proclaiming that the new car was so equipped. On the track, the change paid off as well, and TR4As placed 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in class at the 1966 12 Hours of Sebring.

Because they were fairly abundant and entertaining, not many Triumph TRs survived intact, but this is one such car. It received a body-off restoration about five years ago, and was thoughtfully upgraded in a period-correct manner by Peter Price of Sports and Vintage Cars in Portland, Oregon. The car received 91mm pistons, bringing the displacement from 2138cc to 2393cc, as well as hotter camp, custom exhaust, oil cooler, lightened flywheel, and NOS Abarth 4 pipe exhaust system. A thermostatically-controlled Kenlowe electric fan was also fitted. There are 800 miles on the motor. The brakes and suspension were also redone. Custom rally seats by Bob Ridgard of the United Kingdom were also fitted. The car sits on American Mags with new Michelin XAS tires. The top and tonneau were also replaced and the car repainted.

The car presents well, with glossy paintwork that was done to nice driver standards. Close inspection reveals some surface blemishes in the paint but the overall impression of the car is strong. The panels are straight and fit well, other than the trunk, which sits proud. The car has a great structure, which is a particularly important trait of a Triumph TR. The brightwork varies from good to excellent, with very nice bumpers, very minor pitting on the door handles, and more significant pitting on the front marker lamp housings. The glass and lamps are in great shape. The wheels appear unrestored and have an attractive patina, while the tires are period correct and costly Michelin XAS items.

The interior presents extremely well, with excellent upholstery and carpets. The dashboard is equally nice, with excellent dash pad, instruments, and switches. The wood appears as new and was redone with the correct level of gloss, considerably lower gloss than is often used when these cars are restored. The steering wheel is a beautiful Moto-Lita with thick leather trimmed rim, which gives a somewhat sinister look that fits this car’s black livery, beefy mags, and hot-rodded motor.

The engine compartment is extremely clean, having been fully restored when the car was apart. The inner fenders and firewall are extremely clean, as is the engine itself. It is nicely detailed and reflects the quality and thoroughness of the restoration. The car has K&N air filters and a chromed valve cover. There is also a battery tender hookup to make charging a breeze. The trunk is simply finished primarily in black paint and the spare is like-new Minilite alloy wheel.

The car is a joy to drive. It is an exceptionally solid example with none of the rattles that typically characterize the British sports car experience. The motor is potent yet still tractable with none of the peakiness or raggedness that characterizes hot-rodded motors. The transmission works very well, including the overdrive, and the suspension and steering are tight.

This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a thoughtfully upgraded and extremely solid overdrive TR4A. It must be one of the best driving TR4As available and embodies all of the pleasurable aspects of vintage car ownership. There are a few photos from the restoration, as well as the original seats and a car cover.

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