Easy Restoration? 1964 Triumph TR4

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If a straightforward restoration project is on your radar, this 1964 Triumph TR4 could be a contender. It has been stored for many years in a heated garage and does require work to be considered roadworthy. However, its lack of rust and the trunkful of new parts represent an excellent starting point. The seller has listed the Triumph here on eBay in Oakland, New Jersey. You could take this promising project home for $9,500.

Triumph introduced the TR4 in July 1961 as its successor to the TR3. Although not as wildly successful as its predecessor, 40,253 of these cars rolled off the line before production ended in 1965. This TR4 left the factory in 1964 and was finished in iconic Racing Green. That brings us to an interesting point, because this shade is often referred to as “British Racing Green.” However, Triumph never used that designation, dropping the word “British” from its marketing literature and color charts. The vehicle’s overall presentation is tidy for a survivor-grade car of this vintage, and its rust-free status means that preservation is a viable option for those not wishing to tackle a restoration. The trim may respond positively to attention with a high-grade polish, although I believe that some items may require a trip to the platers. The glass is clear, and this TR4 rolls on its correct wire wheels.

One component that Triumph carried over almost unchanged from the TR3 to the TR4 was the 2,138cc four-cylinder engine sourced from Standard. The power and torque figures remained unchanged at 105hp and 132 ft/lbs, but the TR4 benefitted from a more refined four-speed manual transmission. Performance was all that you might expect, although it is surprisingly easy to squeeze more from these motors with readily available parts. The seller confirms that this classic isn’t roadworthy. An embedded video in their listing reveals the engine running beautifully, sounding as sweet as a nut. However, the Triumph requires brake and clutch work before hitting the road.

The seller provides no decent interior images, but the listing suggests this TR4 features Black trim, a timber dash, and a banjo-style wheel. It appears complete, and kits are easy to find and affordable if a retrim is required. However, the trunk may interest some readers. It is loaded with new parts, and while the seller doesn’t supply an inventory, there seem to be new headlamps, mechanical components, and at least a partial exhaust system. If the car has sat for years, the buyer will probably put these items to good use fairly quickly!

One of the greatest attractions of classics like this 1964 Triumph TR4 as restoration candidates is how elegantly simple the engineering and construction techniques the company utilized are. That makes them ideal not only for a DIY build but also for the owner to be hands-on with the car’s ongoing maintenance. That creates a “complete” classic ownership experience, which helps to explain the strong interest this Triumph has generated since hitting the market. Do you share that enthusiasm for this project candidate?

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Comments

  1. bobhess bobhessMember

    My favorite Triumph. Nice car.

    Like 7
  2. Joey MecMember

    @bobhess. Me as well as a favorite. I also think his number is fair if he sorted the hydraulics and detailed the engine compartment a bit more. Any Brit of this vintage that isn’t running will always need more than advertised. It’s just the way of the these funs cars. It’s a shame these cars aren’t appreciated by the younger generation (for the most part). The small and’ feel’ of them is of a youth that is passed!!

    Like 5
  3. Ozz

    If it were closer I’d jump on this one. My spare Daimler 2.5 liter engine and transmission would be a great upgrade.

    Like 3
  4. Russell Smith

    EZ-FIX-ER-UPPER. I’ve heard that before. However, I’ve always preferred the early TR4 over the TR4A IRS.

    Like 3
  5. MarkMember

    I owned a TR6, loved it, but I think I prefer the TR4. It seems every ride I would be interested in buying is 2500 miles away, I am not sure if that is a bad or good thing. I would do what was needed to get it roadworthy and somewhat reliable, and drive the hell out of it. If this was closer, I would all over it. It appears it sold before the auction was over.

    Like 2
  6. tompdx

    I hope this isn’t too nitpicky, but I think it’s a bit misleading to say that TR 4 production ceased in 1965. The TR 4A was only slightly different (available with or without the IRS) and ran through 1967. The TR 250 succeeded the TR 4, but not until 1968 (and even then, it had the same body).

    Like 6

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