Triumph TR3A

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Long famed for their rugged reliability and idiosyncratic good looks, the 'sidescreen' TRs have attracted a fanatical following over the years.

The TR2 was replaced by the TR3 in 1955, now with 100bhp on tap (5bhp up on the TR2) and front disc brakes. Great fun to drive, its tough box-section chassis featured independent coil and wishbone front suspension, a leaf sprung 'live' rear axle and disc/drum brakes.

Capable of sprinting to 60mph in just 10.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 109mph, it was updated in 1957 as the TR3A with a wider front grill, exterior door handles and a lockable boot, being finally replaced by the more Italianate TR4 in 1961.

This cracking 1958 TR3A looks most appealing in bright red with a contrasting cream leather interior. The car has spent virtually all its life in sunny South Africa where it enjoyed regular outings with the Old Motor Club of Pretoria as witnessed by various windscreen stickers. The car was partly restored in SA before being brought to the UK for completion to exacting standards, a process which has taken our vendor three years to complete.

The body was removed and restored as required with many trim parts replaced along the way. The TR’s engine and overdrive gearbox were removed and fully serviced with various new parts including the starter motor, oil and water pumps and the carbs were sent away to be rebuilt. A new wiring loom was fitted along with new ignition leads and an uprated cooling fan.

The brakes, suspension and exhaust system were also checked and overhauled where necessary, the steering box being ditched in favour of a rack-and-pinion conversion kit from Protek for lighter, more precise responses. The cockpit has been retrimmed in cream leather piped in red with various new knobs, a sports steering wheel, new mohair hood and new side screens. Additional front driving lamps have been added and the car rides on new wire wheels and tyres.

The history file includes a South African Triumph Sports Car Club Certificate of Authenticity, sundry restoration invoices and photographs and import documents showing that all duties have been paid. Now in sparkling condition throughout, the car is presently awaiting inspection by SGS at Swansea and should be UK-registered in time for the sale.