Triumph 13/60 Convertible

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By the late '50s, Triumph were one of the few manufacturers still building cars using a separate chassis and were certainly way out on their own when they introduced a completely new model range using this construction at the end of the decade.

It did have its advantages, allowing the car to be built in a variety of body styles with minimal fuss – saloon, coupe, estate and convertible versions were all available. The hinged bonnet/front wing assembly also permitted generous access to the engine and front suspension, making it one of the easiest cars to work on. The design also allowed an amazingly tight turning circle, making it a doddle to manoeuvre and park.

The last derivative of the range, the Herald 13/60 appeared in 1967. As the name suggests, the 13/60 used a 1300cc 60bhp engine as fitted in the contemporary Triumph Spitfire. This lively little engine ensured that the Herald still maintained the sporty, economical performance that had made it so popular when it first appeared, with a top speed of 85mph.

To distinguish the 13/60 from earlier models a new grille and bonnet were fitted in a style similar to the six-cylinder Vitesse model. The interior received some minor improvements and in this form the 13/60 survived until production of all Herald models ended in 1971.

This 1968 Herald Convertible was acquired by the vendor from a deceased estate. He believes it to be a one owner example, the car having been off the road for many years, its long-term owner putting it back into circulation in 2012.

A great deal of work had been completed on its restoration, a large file of bills confirming that he had fitted replacement doors, an offside rear wing, new 13/60 front wing, front valence, numerous seals, a new set of carpets, wiper motor, fuel pump and generator control box. The 90,650 indicated miles is thought to be genuine and there are five old MOTs on file, the vendor having just obtained a fresh ticket which expires at the end of October 2016.

The under-bonnet area shows that a massive amount of work has been carried out of late, the car looking smart in most departments with a good hood and attractive interior.

These sprightly Herald 13/60s are surprisingly good to drive, the convertible models combining the practicality of 4 seats with open-top motoring like few other cars of the period making this budget classic look exceptional value for the modest guide price.