1966 Triumph TR4A IRS

• A UK-market example with just four previous keepers, accompanied by numerous invoices and a Heritage Certificate
• The 4A debuted in 1965 and introduced an all-new independent rear suspension system (IRS)
• It combined a modern Michelotti-designed body with the chassis of the previous TR3A
• The 2138cc, TR3A engine continued offering a top speed of almost 110 mph with overdrive
• The four-cylinder TRs are among the easiest of post-war classic sports cars to own and maintain being supported by a multitude of component suppliers and other specialists
• This car has formed part of a large collection with little or no use. An element of recommissioning is to be expected to return it to the road once again

Produced between 1961 and 1967, the Triumph TR4 combined a new, modern, and aggressive body design by famed Italian stylist, Giovanni Michelotti, with the basic chassis of the previous TR3A. The TR4 also improved passenger comfort with wind-up windows, face-level ventilation, and an optional hardtop. When equipped with the optional overdrive, the TR4 was good for a top speed of almost 110mph.

Following on from the TR4, the new TR4A was phased in smoothly at the beginning of 1965 and introduced an all-new independent rear suspension system (IRS), which provided exceptional rear-wheel camber control with excellent wheel travel while softer springs improved the ride quality. Having six universal joints, three prop shafts and two trailing arms, the system was appreciatively more expensive than the previous live axle arrangement (dealers in the US reacted uncomfortably to the new design on cost grounds; to appease them, Triumph actually built the TR4A in two forms, one with a live axle primarily for the US and the TR4A IRS for other markets where the price was less sensitive). The press was happy to see an all-independent car, and Triumph was pleased to be the first British car manufacturer to have all-independent suspensions under every car in their line-up. At the Sebring 12 Hours in 1966, ample proof of the validity of the IRS was provided when three IRS-equipped TR4As achieved a remarkable 1-2-3 class victory.

Body production changes for the TR4A were a new grille, decoration and badging, and a radically different chassis (designed to accept the new semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension), plus the introduction of an up-rated version of the 2138cc Vanguard unit, now with a better cylinder head breathing through a new exhaust, giving 104bhp at 4,700rpm. Other changes were new decoration, badging, sidelights and chrome trim along the door/wings, a wooden dash, and better seats. The hood too was revised with proper catches at the front, which ensured it would stay on, unlike the pitifully poor TR4 hood.

The car presented here is UK-supplied, right-hand drive 1966 Triumph TR4A dating from the 6th April 1966 and sent to Puttocks Ltd. of Guildford for sale. With only four previous keepers, this 4A has led a well-cared-for life in the hands of genuine enthusiasts immediately evident by the accompanying history file showing much expenditure on maintenance and upkeep over the years. A BMC Heritage Trust Certificate is also present and evidence that at least one previous owner was a member of the TR Register. A UK-market example is relatively rare and the most desirable, giving the new owner the opportunity to step straight into a very well-regarded British classic.

In recent years, this car has formed part of a large collection and as such has received little or no use and an element of recommissioning is to be expected to return it to the road once again. Your inspection pre-sale is welcomed and encouraged to appreciate the potential of this rarely offered motor car.