1978 Triumph Stag

Like the Triumph 2000 it was developed from, the Stag was styled by Italian maestro Giovanni Michelotti and featured the monocoque construction, independent suspension, disc/drum brakes, power-assisted rack and pinion steering and driveline of that Saloon. The power plant, though, was an all-new OHC, V8 of 3000cc capacity fed by a pair of Stromberg carburettors. The newcomer received a warm reception at the time of launch in 1970. However, once in the hands of customers there were quibbles over build quality and engine maladies. Although Triumph itself failed to fully resolve the issues, independent specialists have, and well sorted Stags are now the rival to the Mercedes-Benz SL they were always intended to be.

We are informed by the vendor that the big Triumph V8 bursts into life instantly from cold on choke and revs cleanly and beautifully and loudly from the outset. It's impossible to hit the open road without opening the taps and performance doesn't disappoint either. The chassis lends itself beautifully to ride quality as opposed to sports car handling and we are told it despatches B road corners with aplomb.

Describing this car as stunning is no exaggeration, we are told that the deep gloss red paintwork carries no evidence of unsightly orange peel and there are no discernible scratches or stone chips. The car was subject to a major repaint firstly in 1993 and then again in 2009 by Ridgeway Auto refinishers which included a complete respray including door shuts, under bonnet components and importantly wax oil to all cavities so the sills, arches and entire underside are completely rot free and is matched by beautiful sparkling chrome work throughout.

Likewise in the same year the car was subject to a wallet busting mechanical overhaul of all power train components by renowned Stag specialist Faversham Classics at a cost of £7500. The story continues into the cockpit, in April 2010 the interior was subject to a £1500 refit by G A Upton & Sons of Hastings, the devil is in the detail and this car has it in spades.

We are informed that this car has been in the hands of its current owner for the last 27 years and comes with a warranted mileage of just under 67000 miles from new, 22 previous MOT certificates and only 4 recorded keepers from new and a bulging history file provides positive proof that no mechanical stone has been left unturned, the gearshift is tight and precise, with no graunches even when cold, the suspension does its job silently and the steering is precise with no wander or wheel wobble. We are told you will search in vain for any fluid leaks, and oil and coolant are clean and to the correct levels.

Sold with a current MOT until August of 2014 and a record of bills totalling a whopping £23,300 the guide price is somewhat of a bargain, its surely one of the best in the country and its value is only ever going to go one way.