Triumph TR3A

The Triumph TR3 is a sports car produced between 1955 and 1962 by Standard-Triumph in England. The facelifted variant, popularly but unofficially known as the TR3A, entered production in 1957 and the final version, unofficially the TR3B, was produced in 1962.

Although the car generally came as an open two-seater, an occasional rear seat and bolt-on steel hardtop were available as options.

The car was powered by a 1991cc inline 4-cylinder overhead valve engine initially producing 95 HP, an increase of 5 HP over the TR2 due to the larger SU-H6 carburetors installed. This power was then increased to 100 HP at 5000 rpm thanks to the addition of a “high port” cylinder head and an enlarged manifold. The four-speed manual gearbox could be supplemented by an overdrive unit on the first three gears, operated electrically and controlled by a switch on the dashboard. In 1956, the front brakes were changed from drums to discs, making the TR3 the first British production car to be equipped with them.

In 1957, the TR3 was updated with various changes, including a full-width radiator grille, and this improved model was commonly referred to as the Triumph “TR3A.” However, the cars were not marked as such and the name “TR3A” was not officially used. The “TR3A” was built between 1957 and 1962.

Upgrades included a new wide front grille, exterior door handles, a lockable trunk handle and a complete tool kit as standard (optional on the TR3).

This example, purchased in 1990 in the USA, was imported into Belgium. It was then gradually restored, culminating in a complete engine overhaul in 2020 (top and bottom).

It is equipped with a body-color hardtop, tonneau cover, soft top cover and soft top in very good condition. The interior is also in very good condition. The chassis is sound and rust-free, and its attractive price is linked to the condition of its old paintwork and its poor period preparation. It has no overdrive.

In addition to its historical record, it has a Heritage certificate.