1962 Triumph TR4 (SOLD)
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A REALLY REMARKABLE EXAMPLE.
Underneath: virtually perfect floors, chassis, inner sills, etc. Just meaningless surface rust, easily removed with a wire brush. AND NO perforation anywhere. Brakes recently done, all new exhaust, handbrake works properly, wire wheels look to be in excellent condition, and tires are near new.
Body: very close to perfect/mint/original. With very old paint (I guess there is always the possibility some of it is original). A bit faded when it came in, but with some expert wet sancding and buffing, VERY nice. Excellent chrome and trim, things like the rubber 'round the windshield is not dry rotted, overall very impressive. And unusually good fit of doors, panels, etc. Really defines the term 'straight.'
Carpets are very good, same with interior panels, one slight rip in what appears to be original leather seats (drive'rs side so you never see it when driving). Just lightly cracked to show it is leather, not vinyl.
Mechanically: 150 psi compression in every cylinder, 75 psi oil pressure at operating temperature, no smoke under any conditions, quiet valves, no oil leaks, clutch feels perfect, excellent all synchromesh transmission, quiet diff, steering feels like new....what else is left? Whats left is REAL performance, a slight tap on the throttle and 100 mph is quickly reached. VERY strong, very smooth, and incredibly quiet performance. Even at 4,500-5,000 rpm in top geat, the car is quiet and refined. EASILY demonstrated. And after a long run on a 90 degree day, was running at 185 degrees water temp and 75 psi oil pressure.
Excellent original wiring harness, all working gauges and electrics, new battery, new convertible top, excellent trunk with rust free spare wheel well, front AND rear seat belts (yes, room for two kids or two very uncomfortable adults), excellent original steering wheel, fitted with a later model TR4 wood dash (looks great and is 'as new'), very tidy engine bay with all original engine bay paint, excellent original cardboard radiator shroud, master cylinders appear new, all hoses and fan belt fine, running out of things to describe.
Went over the entire body with a magnet, no sign of any bondo further adding to our suspicion of it being original paint. When using the term 'survivor,' this TR4 really defines the term.
On a drive, engine pulls smoothly and strongly to the red line, steering is first rate, brakes work perfectly, the only rattle I heard was the original knock off hammer and jack in the boot, excellent ride, and.........
Interesting 'cause the US spec TR6 was a 2.5 liter engine rated at 106hp while the TR4 of 2 liters was rated at 105hp. Quicker revving, lively due to the lighter weight, and rather simple car with solid back axle and less complex electrical system.
It does not appear to be restored BUT seems to have been a properly serviced, very well cared for classic and now? Ready to drive anywhere and sufficiently clean for a low key classic car show.
