Triumph TR3

ENGINE 2138cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 100bhp@5000rpm TORQUE 117lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 105mph 0-60MPH 12.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 21-28mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 7382 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This ex-US TR3 really shifts thanks to a 2.2-litre engine (an optional upgrade from 1959) rebuilt to a Stage 2 tune. The steering is satisfyingly crisp, with just a little vagueness over rough surfaces, but nothing serious for a car of this period. The Kenlowe fan kicks in when it should, the car corners beautifully and the non-servo brakes (with discs up front) are reassuringly strong. The only slight irritation is that first gear is prone to crunching unless you arrive at it via third.

BODYWORK CHECK

The body still looks fresh from a relatively recent respray that was clearly done to quite a high standard – though not quite concours, as evidenced by one or two drips and slight brush marks in tight areas. Close scrutiny reveals slight misalignment of the chrome strip on the front nearside wing and a small dent on the opposite side. But there’s no sign of any rust, the chrome is mostly excellent and the overall impression is of a wellcherished car. The steel wheels are equally smart and shod with recent matching 165/80 15in Continental tyres with plenty of tread. A look under the car reveals a clean underbelly, with no signs of rust or significant oil seepage, even around the differential.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The view from the driving seat (neatly converted to RHD) is totally period, and there’s nothing really to fault. The slightly aged carpets could probably be improved, but the whole interior was recently retrimmed in red leather and there are no scuffs or tears on the seats – just gentle creases. The tonneau cover is also in great condition, the steering wheel is mint and all the electrics function.

UNDER THE BONNET

The engine bay looks pleasingly tidy, yet modest with no flashy chrome or aluminium. The Stage 2 engine conversion – carried out a few years ago – involved a lightened and balanced bottom end and a fast road camshaft. The engine runs on twin SU carburettors and has been uprated with an alternator and Kenlowe fan. Hoses and wiring (not braided, sadly) look recent and all the pipes and linkages still look fresh and clean with no corrosion on any nuts or the recent exhaust manifold.

THE CCW VIEW

This is a lovely example – solid, smart and ready for fisticuffs – and the asking price is in the middle of what’s often considered the typical band for a concours TR3; considering the upgraded performance and all-round tidiness, that seems a fair ask. The previous owner was a long-term devotee and reportedly a committed club member, and the engine conversion was carried out by a respected Triumph specialist. No question – it ticks plenty of boxes as a summer plaything.