1962 TRIUMPH TR3'B' ROADSTER
Chassis no. TCF 862 L
Engine no. TCF 883 L
2,138cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
2 SU Carburetors
105bhp at 4,650rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Independent Suspension Live Rear Axle
Front Disc Brakes Rear Drum Brakes
*Nicely restored example
* Rare specification "B" model
* One of the best performing classic Triumphs
*The classic Triumph sports car
THE TRIUMPH TR3
Lacking a sports car capable of competing with those of MG and Jaguar, Triumph started developing a new sports car, the TR2, which it displayed proudly at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1953. An enormous success both at home and abroad, it was to be expected that its successor - the TR3 - would represent evolution rather than revolution.
Introduced in October 1955, the TR3 was, indeed, little different from the preceding TR2. Changes to the 2.0-liter engine boosted power from 90 to 95bhp, but the most obvious difference was the adoption of an 'egg box' radiator grille. The engine developed 100bhp courtesy of a new cylinder head by mid-1956; then in August, Girling front disc brakes were introduced. The TR3A was introduced during 1957, with cosmetic changes including new front-end styling featuring a full-width grille incorporating sidelights/indicators, and locking door and trunk handles plus an improved interior.
In the US towards the end of production of these cars and with the advent of the TR4 and its altogether different aesthetics, bowing to dealer concerns a modest production run of the definitive TR3s was built, incorporating the latter's 2,138cc engine and very minor styling changes. Of course the concerns were basically unfounded, but for the collector or connoisseur today this rather rare variant with the extra 20% cubic capacity is both rare and has more 'poke' than its predecessors.
Today these charismatic Triumph sports cars remain popular for their usability, ease of maintenance, good looks and the fact that they are immense fun to drive.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This lovely TR3'B' was completed on June 30, 1962 and dispatched to America on July 9, 1962. A numbers matching example, it is finished in its correct Spa White color and factory equipped with a heater and a handy adjustable steering column to help accommodate a wider array of driver sizes.
This example of the rarely found TR3'B' was the recipient of a restoration for personal use, by a professional restorer. Not surprisingly, it was completed to a very high standard and would remain with the restorer as a personal car for many years. As inspected by a Bonhams specialist in recent months, the Triumph remains extremely well presented with good shut lines and panel fit, and only modest age to its refurbishment.
This TR3'B' is equipped with all of its weather equipment including top, rigid side curtains and tonneau cover. This lovely Triumph TR3'B' is probably the most usable and best performing of all the pre TR4 classic Triumphs. Rarely seen on the market this TR3'B' is offered in ready to use and enjoy condition.
Saleroom notices
- Please note that this car is titled as a 1963.