Triumph Vitesse Mk1 Convertible

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The Vitesse was launched in May 1962 and was effectively a more powerful version of Triumph's four-cylinder Herald range, based on the same backbone chassis.

Like the Herald, it was styled by Giovanni Michelotti, who managed to redeploy most of the Herald body panels while giving the newcomer its own distinctive character, courtesy of a 'Chinese eye' four-headlamp front end.

Available as a saloon or a convertible, it was initially powered by a 70bhp 1,596cc twin-carb version of the straight-six Vanguard engine. This was updated in 1966 with the 90bhp two-litre six-cylinder unit from the GT6, upping the top speed to 104mph and reducing the 0-60mph time to under 12 seconds…it was marketed as the ‘two seater beater’.

This attractive pale blue Vitesse MkI Convertible wasn't registered until June 1969 and must have been in stock for a little while as by then, the MkII had been introduced with its mild facelift and new rear suspension.

The V5C records seven former keepers. There are two old style V5s on file, one of which records a previous owner as Peter Taylor, resident of 10 Downing Street, London. He owned it from 1981 until 1994. He worked as an aide at Number 10, famously opening a letter bomb addressed to Margaret Thatcher. He was lucky to get away with minor injuries.

It came into the hands of our local vendor in 2000 and she enjoyed the car for a few years. In 2008 she decided it needed some work and sent the car to MGs Unlimited in Plymouth, who undertook a comprehensive restoration.

This included chassis work, a full brake and suspension overhaul, new shock absorbers, wiring loom and a repaint. The car has been retrimmed with leather seats and had a new hood fitted which remains in good condition. Their work appears to have been done to a good standard (unlike the spelling on their accompanying invoices!) and there are five old MOTs on file.

In nice, usable condition, this convertible looks great sitting on its non-standard centre lock wire wheels and is only for sale through lack of use.