After World War II, American and European driving enthusiasts were thirsty for affordable, fun sports cars. Among the many British manufacturers that rose to meet this growing demand was the Standard Motor Company, which introduced its first Triumph Roadster, or TR, in 1953. Built on a ladder frame and utilizing a torquey but low-revving 1.6L inline-4 derived from the Massey-Fergusson tractor line, the TR2 featured decidedly prewar styling with prominent, curving fenders and cut-down doors. Over the following 10 years, the TR2 received a steady stream of improvements and upgrades, including a larger engine and better brakes, with these updated models being designated first the TR3 and then TR3A. However, by the late ’50s, Triumph enlisted Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti to pen a new body to clothe the TR3A running gear. The result, released in 1961, was the Triumph TR4, which was eventually replaced in 1965 by a new Triumph TR4A. While under its skin the TR4A still featured a slightly improved 2.1L inline 4-cylinder engine breathing through twin Stromberg carburetors and producing 104 HP and 132 lb-ft of torque, gone was the previous TR’s live axle rear end, which was replaced with a much-improved semi-trailing arm, independent rear suspension that yielded a much smoother and more sure-footed ride. Bearing Serial No. CTC61656, this 1967 Triumph TR4A Roadster is repainted in its correct original lustrous red color over its original black leather interior and is a lifelong California car. Purchased new for a teenage driver, this TR4A was driven regularly in California until 1994, when it was put away in a storage container until 2022, at which time it became the subject of a comprehensive two-year restoration. Its original 2138cc/104 HP inline-4 engine is equipped with its original Stromberg carburetors, a rebuilt top end with new valve springs and the original generator, and the original radiator keeps it all cool. That engine feeds power to the original 4-speed manual transmission equipped with the highly desirable option of an overdrive unit and out to the original rear end, and it exhales through a new exhaust system. Other notable features include a new convertible top, new tonneau, wood dash, original banjo steering wheel, original gauges, new exhaust, new brake calipers and new Minilite wheels and tires.
