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1965 Triumph TR4

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£14,740

  • Mileage~60,465 on clock
  • TransmissionManual with O/D
  • Engine2.1L
  • LocationCowes

SOLD

1965 Triumph TR4

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Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Consigner and Editor

A formidable and potent sports car, the TR4 is guaranteed to win your heart over.

The Triumph TR4 picked up the momentum from the previous TR models but provided a more refined and user-friendly dimension without diluting the purity and essence of the TR's charm. Released in 1961, the successful application of the TR4's crisp and handsome Michelotti styling was combined with an increase in power. 

While it smoothed the edges of the previous TR sports cars, its wider stance, improved handling, all-synchromesh gearbox and extra horses enabled it at the time to become the cheapest new car to exceed 100 mph. It was the start of the TR’s trajectory towards the upmarket performance sector.

Like previous models, the TR4 was primarily aimed at export markets with over 3/4 of its production being sold aboard. Considered a rarity, this late, genuine UK market RHD TR4 comes to market after our vendor won it in classic car raffle, it is powered by the 2.1-litre straight-four engine with twin Stromberg carbs and a four-speed gearbox with overdrive. Close to its original factory spec, this solid 1965 car is smartly presented in black with a red vinyl interior and comes with its Heritage Trust certificate of authenticity. 

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Jeremy the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I saw a competition version of the TR4 when I was a child and that vision has stayed with me ever since. 

Jeremy saw the car on a classic car raffle website and was struck by its colour combination and condition - he loves the torquey engine and the sound of the twin Strombergs with its purposeful exhaust tone. 

Sadly the positives are overshadowed by his increasing lack of agility to get in and out of the car and he feels it's best to pass it on to someone else to enjoy. 

Jeremy will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Jeremy
Vehicle Owner

Jeremy saved £2,520* when they
sold their Triumph with us.

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Exterior

Poised and purposeful, the smart finish and solid presentation add to the appeal of this TR4.

Wheels and Tyres

The 15" silver-painted wire wheels are cleanly presented and show no significant signs of age. They all have tight spokes and decent chrome spinners. 

The car is fitted with four Continental Contact tyres. Fitted in 2021, they display a healthy amount of tread. 

Bodywork

The exterior presentation is very positive, with a smooth panel flow and decent panel gaps with just a mild elevation of the engine lid. All the doors open and close with ease, their hinges and catches all up to the job. It is free of panel damage, although there is a minor but treatable dent on the boot lid. 

Revealing an impressively tidy engine bay, it is complemented by a clean underside.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The black paint finish has an impressive lustre and consistent across the car.

Being picky, there are a few blemishes in places - we spotted light orange peeling and a minor paint fracture on the nearside rear wing. A few marks were noted on the base of the nearside sill and a handful of superficial blemishes on some of the panels, but overall the TR4 is well presented. 

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The windscreen is in good shape with decent seals, and the side glass shows light marks but nothing that would distract.

The lights and lenses are in good condition, free of cracks or fading. 

The chrome trim is neatly presented and of sound quality, with no outstanding issues.

The bumpers show mild pitting and age in places.

Interior

Furnished in a striking red, black and white combo, the cabin is original and is hugely inviting.

Seats and Carpets

The appealing bright red seats with white piping are in good shape, with minor wear noted on the driver's seat backs and surrounds. Generally, the vinyl has lasted well with some signs of age noted on the rear seat. 

The black carpets are complete, with some wear observed in the driver's footwell - the rest of the carpets are good, with no dampness. 

Dashboard

The fetching black and white combo facia is in good condition, with no damage noted on the padding or dashboard. The dials are fully legible and were demonstrated to work as they should. The switchgear appears to be original and are all said to function. 

The rest of the vinyl trim is presentable - the door cards are in excellent shape and well-mounted.

The car has been fitted with four seat belts and has a fire extinguisher. 

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original steering wheel shows a few signs of age but is free of damage.

The gear lever and its gaiter are in good order. 

Mechanics

The engine is impressively presented and it drives exceptionally well.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine starts up without hesitancy, sounding smooth with no undulations. The exhaust didn’t emit any unwanted smoke, just some white smoke at start up on the cold day - and there was no evidence of oil leaks on the ground. The engine idles evenly, with no unwanted noises. The engine presentation is delightful, with evidence of maintenance and new parts. 

The gearbox operates well, with the overdrive demonstrated to function as it should. The gear change is reported to be smooth and free of noises or knocks. The clutch operates well. 

Suspension and Brakes

The car absorbed the roads with no thuds, creaks or wallowing as we drove at urban speeds.

Jeremy was impressed with the car's braking and demonstrated its straight-line composure when he slowed it down - there were mild squeals as we initially braked, but no vibrations or judders. 

The Drive

We were fortunate to be treated to a near-perfect autumn day on the test drive along the country roads, which suited the spirit of the TR4. Very much a car that creates goodwill amongst passers-by, it's almost impossible not to have a smile on your face when sitting in the snug cabin. 

The handling was smooth and comfortable, with no fight from the steering as we managed the roads. Jeremy hustled the car along the lanes, the engine pulling well as it came up to temperature.

The oil pressure stayed static at 60 psi and never dropped, Jeremy confirmed no problems with the engine temperature. There didn’t appear to be any chattering valve noises, the engine sounded tight as we worked through the gears. We didn't hear any significant mechanical rattles on the move.

Electrics and Other

There isn't too many electrical components in the TR4 but Jeremy told us everything was working.

The vinyl hood lowers and raises without issues, sealing with a tight fit and no damaged fastenings. The hood perspex shows light signs of age but no fogging. The soft top condition is positive inside and out with no rips or tears. The car also has a full tonneau. 

History and Paperwork

Verified as a genuine home-market UK car, it has only seen four previous registered owners.

First registered in January 1965, this TR4 is verified by the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust as a genuine UK-built RHD car, having been supplied new in its current colour and red interior trim. Sold by a Triumph dealer in Kent, it was also specified with a heater, overdrive, sun visors, tonneau cover and occasional rear seat, all of which have been retained.

There is no additional history with the car, although it is believed that the previous owner had been a father and son, who kept it for over 30 years as a fair weather car while maintaining and garaging it. The current owner obtained the car in September 2024, having won it in an online classic car raffle. 

Online MOT records suggest leisurely use as it appears to have only covered 400 miles since 2012. It comes with its heritage certificate, three keys, its current V5 and a Veloce guide on the TR4. There are also a few spare parts, including side glass weather strips, headlamps and some engine service parts. Naturally, it is road tax and MOT exempt.  

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
30-05-2012 MOT 60,091
21-05-2011 MOT 59,915
15-06-2010 MOT 59,745
Key Details
  • ModelTriumph TR4
  • Transmission4-Speed Manual with O/D
  • Reg. Date01-01-1965
  • CC2138
  • Mileage~60,465 on clock
  • ColourBlack
  • Interior ColourRed
  • Interior TrimVinyl
  • Chassis #CT39421
  • Engine #CT3969HE
  • MOTLast MOT Exp. 30-05-2012
  • MOT ExemptYes Exempt
  • Road Tax ExemptYes Exempt
  • HPi ClearYes - All clear
  • Former Keepers4
  • Tyre BrandContinental
  • Tyre Age2012
  • # of Keys3
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Key FeatureHome Market Car
  • Vehicle RegistrationDJG 389C
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body Type2-door Convertible
  • Auction ID2232







Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions
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7 Comments
TRMac
TRMac
1 month ago

Hi is the TR originally Black?
You can check this on the commission number plate located on scuttle panel adjacent to the windscreen wiper motor by lifting the bonnet.
Also on HPI colour changes?
Comm No CT39421 is there an ‘O’ at the end?
Paint code ?
Trim code ?
Is there a reserve price?
Many thanks

ColinB
ColinB
Admin
  TRMac
1 month ago

Hi,

Jeremy sent over the plate details they are as follows:
The details are : CT39421-0
Paint-11
Trim-12

Thanks,
Colin.

KP152
KP152
1 month ago

Hi Jeremy, I have a question regarding collection of the car if I am the lucky winning bidder. I’m located near Edinburgh in Scotland and would need to arrange transportation. How quickly after the auction ends do you need the car away? Thanks

mjb45
mjb45
2 months ago

Hi, Does your car have the independent rear suspension that was the upgrade in 1965?
Thanks,
MJB

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Vehicle Location

Cowes, Isle of Wight

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