Triumph 2500S
ENGINE 2498cc/6-cyl/OHV POWER 105bhp@4700rpm TORQUE 139lb ft@2750rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 106mph 0-60MPH 11.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 20-24mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed auto MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 38,284 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This one-owner Triumph starts instantly and soon settles to an even idle. The auto ‘box selects Drive readily enough – avoiding that initial ‘thud’ once the choke is dispensed with – and the assisted steering is accurate. Performance is swift for a 1970s saloon, the S-spec softer springs and anti-roll bars working hard when pushed through local B-roads, but with no unwanted knocks or rattles. The front discs and rear drums inspire confidence with a firm pedal, progressive stopping power and no pulling to either side.
BODYWORK CHECK
The immaculate 14-inch Stag wheels – only shared with the 2500S – are fitted with new tyres all round and enhance the original Russet Brown exterior. There’s just one small blemish – a stone chip on the front edge of the bonnet. Both bumpers show signs of age, as do the door handles and side strips, but the vendor is looking to repair the chip in the windscreen. Panel gaps are uniform and the embellishing trim fits correctly. The underside is well protected with original
EXTERIOR
Solid with straight panels
INTERIOR
Period and will easily improve
MECHANICALS
Recent expenditure Strong history underseal and there’s evidence of anti-rust wax injection. The stainless-steel exhaust is recent.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Several lacquer cracks have appeared in the dashboard veneer, mainly on the door cappings, but the original colour is retained. The driver’s seat base foam is beginning to sag and a small repair is needed on the top of the passenger seat, but the covers need little more than cleaning. The front carpets are showing signs of wear but the rears are in good order; all are protected by rubber overmats. The original door cards are in excellent condition and the roof lining is secure with no sagging, though there are a couple of small marks in it. All
of the dials and gauges work correctly, as does the period Motorola radio.
UNDER THE BONNET
Stains within the engine bay are actually dry rust-proofing and will polish away. The straightsix block is unpainted but the rocker cover is finished in silver and the battery and radiator are recent additions. The history file is extensive; the Lord Nuffield Trust bought it new for driver Ronald Bayford who maintained and drove it until he passed away in 2009. It was then put into storage before being sold in 2013. The last owner fitted electronic ignition, an spin-on oil filter conversion kit and new track rod ends.
THE CCW VIEW
This 2500S has yet to cover 40k miles and the fact that it has been treasured by one family for almost four decades is confirmed by the history file. Enthusiasts will appreciate the honest interior and smart exterior finish and while there are jobs to do for those chasing absolute perfection, they are generally pretty minor.
PROS Condition, mileage, history, performance CONS Needs a little work to make perfect
BUY IT FROM Milestone Classics, Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 0AZ. 01798 874884, milestoneclassics.co.uk