BRIEF
HISTORY OF THE TRIUMPH TR4
The
TRIUMPH TR4 was
first produced in 1961. It replaces the old fashioned
looking TR3
that remainded in production for the U.S. market until 1962 . So
the cars share many mechanical components, at least with the
late
TR3 B. TR4's main innovation is in its body design. Straight
lines, and winding windows brought much more comfort and a modern look
to the car.
TECHNICAL DATAS
| Version |
Engine |
Power |
Transmission |
Length |
Weight |
Top
speed |
TR4
(1961-1965) |
In
line 4 Cyl.
2138 cc
|
twin
SU HS 6 carburettors - 100
bhp |
4 gears manual
gearbox - overdrive optional on 2nd, 3rd and 4th
Solid rear axle |
396
cm |
990
kg
|
110
mph |
TR4A
(1965
-1967) U.S. market |
In
line
4 Cyl.
2138 cc |
twin
SU HS 6
carburettors - 100
bhp
or
twin
Zenith Stromberg 175 CD - 114 bhp |
4
gears manual gearbox - overdrive optional on 2nd, 3rd and 4th
Solid rear axle |
396
cm |
990
kg |
110
mph |
TR4A
IRS
(1965
-1967)
Other markets |
In
line
4 Cyl.
2138 cc |
twin
SU HS 6
carburettors - 100
bhp
or
twin
Zenith Stromberg 175 CD - 114 bhp |
4
gears manual gearbox - overdrive optional on 2nd, 3rd and 4th
Independant Rear Suspension |
396
cm |
990
kg |
110
mph |
HOW MUCH IS A
TRIUMPH TR4 WORTH ?
It
is not possible to give an accurate amount. Quote depends on condition,
version, and your country (many cars were sold in the United States and
-of course- in UK ; you can assume TR4s are less expensives
where
they are easier to find).
Like
most of the British roadsters from the 60s, the TR4
is popular and well estimated by enthusiasts. The more
comfortable IRS (Independant Rear
Suspension) versions
get the highest quotes : plan a 10% higher price in comparison
with a solid rear axle TR4 or TR4 A.
Whatever
the version is, additional options or equipment justify a higher price.
The most important are :
- Surrey
Top
: a hard top with a solid rear window and frame, but with a removable
top element. It allows to convert your convertible TR4 into a "Targa
roof" fixed head coupe. This is the most useful equipment, available
only on Triumph TR4, TR5 and TR250.
- overdrive
: reduces engine speed, and relaxes both the engine and your ears.
-
wire wheels (painted or chrome plated).
WHERE CAN I FIND A TR4
FOR SALE
?
You will find
TR4s for sale every month or every week in the specialized press. Many
cars are offered for sale on classic cars classified sites on
the Internet.
Do
not rush to buy the first car you see (the ads may be
re-submited on a
regular basis when prices are too high). See and test
drive several vehicles, this will allow you to ensure that you
are made for this model.
To buy from classic car specialists may be
a good way to reduce purchase risks. |
|
HOW
TO FIND TR4
SPARE PARTS ?
Dozens
of spare parts retailers sell from their web-shops. Spare parts
catalogs and price lists may be downloaded directly from the Internet.
Original parts catalog is also available on CD-Rom from
retailers.
|
Spare
parts availability is the undeniable advantage of British classic cars
: almost everything is available at affordable price.
The large number of
cars still on road today helps
to maintain a dynamic market, where customers demand drives spare parts
production and competition between spare parts retailers
keeps
rates at reasonnable levels.
There
are many classic car parts retailers in North America and in
Europe. In most cases the spare part you will look for will be
immediatly available.
Major classic car parts companies are Moss Europe, Moss Motors,
Motor Dream, Anglo Parts,
Limora, etc.
|
HOW TO GET
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ?
Meet TR4
owners. As many
enthusiasts, they
will be happy to share their experience with you, and give an
objective opinion on their cars. Go to autojumbles, classic car events
or contact your local Triumph Club or TR Register.
Helpful books
can be found on the car's history, you will find on this site selected
and recommended publications.
|
