Lot 051: Triumph TR4A

Produced between 1965 and 1967, the TR4A was an evolution of the gorgeous Michelotti-styled Triumph TR4, updated with a larger engine, new chassis, wider track and rack-and-pinion steering. It was hoped the new, but heavier and more complex independent rear suspension would address the buying public's desire for more comfortable riding sports cars. However, in response to dealer requests, approximately 25% of TR4As were still produced with a solid rear axle option, similar to the earlier TR4. Today the live axle cars are still much preferred by the racing fraternity as they are more easily prepared for competition work and give superior on the limit handling characteristics and a better power-to-weight ratio (better even than the TR6). In standard tune the 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine produced 105bhp and was good for 111mph but supercharged and otherwise performance-tuned versions could comfortably produce in excess of 200bhp. The gearbox had full synchromesh on all forward gears, and the optional Laycock de Normanville electrically operated overdrive could now be selected for 2nd and 3rd gear as well as 4th, effectively providing the car with a seven-speed close ratio gearbox.First registered in April 1965, this matching numbers TR4A was rebuilt in 1990 from a rust-free American car. Professionally converted to RHD with top quality parts, the car has just received a major body renovation including replacement sills and acid-dipped original wings, finished off with a mile-deep repaint in dazzling Signal Red. Providing the go to match the show is a free-revving Peter Burgess fast road spec engine driving through the desirable overdrive gearbox. Coupled with Spax and polybush enhanced suspension, it all adds up to a fast and sure-footed TR4 that is as ready to tear around a race track as it is to pop down to the local for a beer. Sitting on refurbished Minilite-style alloy wheels and with a fresh MOT, it is said to be in excellent condition throughout. It comes with a comprehensive history file plus a detailed photographic record of the recent body restoration work.