1968 Triumph TR5 - Original UK RHD

When Michelotti's sharp-suited new TR4 was unveiled at the London motor show in 1961, the car looked thoroughly modern, especially when compared with the old-fashioned TR3A that it replaced. However, the reality was that under the skin, the car was still very much a TR3A as little more than the outer skin was actually new. Despite this, the TR4 and the TR4A that succeeded it were amongst the fastest affordable sports cars on offer throughout the 1960s. Cheap to buy and run, the cars' road manners however left a little room for improvement, despite the TR4 having gained rack and pinion steering, wider front and rear tracks to make it more surefooted and an all-synchro gearbox. However, as stylish transport, they were pretty much unbeatable. All it cried out for, to compete with the new wave of saloon GTs, was more power. Lots more. The stock 2-litre GT6 engine was tried and, although smooth, was actually no quicker than the old tractor-derived four-pot. The answer was simple though – enlarge the straight-six by a massive 500cc to give a lusty 2.5-litre and help it breathe a little easier. With a better cylinder head and wilder camshaft, the engine worked well, although it was a bit lumpy at low revs until fuel-injection was fitted to better monitor fuel delivery. All this led, in October 1967, to the launch of the TR5. Outwardly, the car was barely discernible from the TR4A, but the new engine, complete with Lucas fuel-injection, turned the TR into a genuine performance car with a handy 150bhp on tap.

In truth, the TR5 was little more than a test bed for the new engine, which quickly found its way into the 2000 saloon. Realistically the car was effectively a stop-gap and only had to last around 18 months until Karmann had finished its work on the replacement, the TR6. The TR5 was produced in limited numbers, with just 2,947 cars manufactured between 29th August 1967 and 19th September 1968 and, out of these, a mere 1,161 were intended for the UK market. However, with the benefit of hindsight, the TR5 is arguably the best of the lot, enjoying the clean unsullied looks of the TR4 with the raunchiness of the TR6.

This original UK right-hand drive car is a true gem, fully matching numbers and accompanied by the original Heritage Certificate and 'green' logbook confirming its three previous owners. Meticulously maintained and cherished, this Triumph TR5 stands out as a remarkable example even among seasoned professionals.

During the late 1990s, it was subject to a comprehensive body-off nut and bolt restoration with a substantial investment of c.£24,000 (30 years ago!). Every aspect has been meticulously addressed, from the superb bare-metal respray that showcases its classic Old English White exterior to a brand new black interior, piped in white. The new mohair hood has a removable rear screen and the car sits on a set of sparkling new chrome wire wheels with new tyres. Naturally all the mechanical aspects have been refurbish to the same remarkable standards and the engine and gearbox have been painstakingly rebuilt to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

This quintessential British Classic is accompanied by a full lever-arch file of paperwork including detailed bills and photographs, historic Tax Discs, previous MOTs and its current MOT valid until March 2024, a true testament to the care and attention this lovely Triumph has received and providing its next owner with peace of mind.