1936 Triumph Gloria Twelve Four-seat Tourer

Between 1933 and 1938, Triumph made a large and confusing range of Gloria sporting saloons, coupés, tourers, 2-seater sports cars, drophead coupés and golfer’s coupés. All these Glorias, apart from the final two models (1.5-litre Saloon and Fourteen Six-Light Saloon) were powered by four or six-cylinder Coventry Climax overhead-inlet and side-exhaust valve designed engines (modified and built by Triumph). From August 1934 to 1936, the Gloria range included Gloria Vitesse models which were up-rated, engine & equipment, versions of the equivalent Gloria.

This lovely Gloria is one of, we believe, just 19 two-door, four-seat Tourers built between August 1935 and July 1937 powered by the 1,232cc (10.8hp) four-cylinder engine with the pre-select 4-speed gearbox.

In the 1970s, a long-term restoration project was started by then-owner Mr Bob Smith - a qualified and experienced engineer - and the vehicle was stripped in its entirety, with the bodywork being split from the chassis and re-made, whilst the chassis, braking system (hydraulic Lockheed-system brakes) and all mechanical aspects were overhauled and rebuilt to original specification. Similarly, the 1,232cc inline-four was removed from the vehicle and disassembled. The crankshaft and camshaft were both reground, and all the bearings within the engine were replaced. The block itself was rebored, and fitted with new pistons, before being reassembled.

Unfortunately, Mr Smith passed away before the restoration was completed, although the majority of the in-depth work had been carried out. Our vendor then purchased the vehicle from Ms Smith, and set about finishing off the brightwork, electrical systems and fitting an uprated water pump for improved reliability.

The little Triumph has covered around 330 miles since being rebuilt and restored and, whilst the vehicle is in running and driving condition (along with being taxed and used on the road), the vendor does note that it's still running a little rich and remains in the engine running-in period, so some light fettling and running adjustments are to be expected, although that’s all part of the appeal of a pre-war vehicle such as this.

Included with this delightful example of pre-Standard Triumph motoring is an extensive history folder with log books dating all the way back to 1936, along with the original instruction and maintenance manuals. There is also a stack of invoices for work done and supporting documentation, along with a photo record of Mr Smith’s restoration works and an in-depth illustrated parts list.

Superbly finished in cream with matching wire wheels and brake drums, brilliant chrome, lovely red interior and a new soft top, this attractive Thirties Tourer certainly justifies Triumph's marketing slogan at the time which read "Triumph-Gloria - Queen of Cars".