This 1955 Triumph TR3 recently emerged from storage, and the seller believes it requires little before serving as a fun weekend driver. It presents well in its current survivor form and could also form the foundation for a satisfying DIY restoration project. The seller has listed the TR3 here on Craigslist in Phoenix, Arizona. It could be yours for $12,900, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this British beauty.

Triumph released the TR3 in 1955 as an evolution of, and a successor to, its TR2 model. Most of the significant changes were mechanical, with Triumph focused on greater engine power and improved braking. Our feature car is a first-year example that the first owner ordered in Pearl White. The seller states that it recently emerged from storage, but supplies no details regarding the hibernation period. The paint holds a warm shine, although a close inspection reveals a selection of small chips and imperfections that are consistent with this car’s survivor status. The panels are straight, but the best news is that this classic has spent its life in Arizona. That state’s climate is conducive to steel preservation, leaving this TR3 rust-free. The trim and glass look acceptable for a vehicle of this type, but there is no information supplied on the condition of its Black soft-top.

The same 1,991cc four that had served admirably in the TR2 made a return in the TR3. However, with larger SU carburetors and a few other tweaks, engine power rose from 90 to 95hp. Ongoing development saw the figure climb to 100hp in 1956, with the power feeding to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. Although the ¼-mile sprint was never the greatest strength of the TR3, its ability to cover the distance in 18.1 seconds and hit 105mph was nonetheless impressive for a British sports car from this era. The seller is sparing in their description, supplying no information regarding this Triumph’s mechanical health. However, their insistence that it requires little to serve as a fun weekend driver suggests there is no bad news facing the new owner.

The photos seem to indicate that if the buyer spends a few days in their garage with some high-quality cleaning products, this Triumph’s interior should present quite nicely. The Black upholstered surfaces are free from wear and distress, with the White seat piping offering a welcome contrast. The dash looks really nice, and there are no visible issues with the “banjo” wheel. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, further cementing this car’s survivor status.

This 1955 Triumph TR3 is a first-year survivor offering a few tantalizing options for the new owner. Returning it to active service in its current form would seem to be a straightforward exercise, but so would a restoration. It depends on the buyer’s budget, and how willing they are to commit to a project build. One of its greatest attractions is that its solid nature allows them to take their time with any decisions. The question is, which path would you choose?