1961 Triumph TR4 Roadster

Description

Replacing Triumph’s rugged ‘sidescreen’ TRs in 1961, the all-new TR4 featured sophistacted styling by Italian designer Micholetti and proved a worthy challenger for MG’s new B when it appeared on the market the following year.  Retaining the proven mechanicals of earlier models, the TR4 had a rugged 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine developing a useful 100 horsepower with plenty of torque, a new all-synchromesh gearbox and wider front and rear track for improved handling along with rack-and-pinion steering.  Further enhancing the upmarket feel of the latest Triumph were touches like wind-up windows, decent ventilation and more creature comforts for the occupants.  An expensive option that added to the TR4’s appeal was the unique ‘Surrey’ top, a versatile hardtop arrangement consisting of an aluminium frame with a fixed rear window, a detachable metal roof panel (early cars used aluminium but the panel was steel on later examples) and a simple soft-top for emergency use when the centre panel was removed.  Triumph’s Competition Department campaigned a team of works TR4s in various international rallies during the 1962 and 1963 seasons and they aquitted themselves well enough, with a class win in the Alpine Rally a notable result.  Stylish, sporting and individualistic, the TR4 Triumph is a great alternative to the far more common MGBs and the perfect car for a weekend jaunt.  Early TR4s like the car on offer retain a lovely early ‘60s character somewhat diluted on subsequent models, with simple painted facia (early cars had a polished centre panel replaced with a black crackle finish), that lovely aluminium grille and a palette of period colours.