1970 Triumph Vitesse MKII

Lot details
Registration No: EDA454J
Chassis No: HC57125DL
Mot Expiry: Aug 2012

The Vitesse was launched in the April of 1962 and was effectively a big-engined version of Triumph's four-cylinder Herald range, based on the same backbone chassis. Like the Herald, it was styled by Giovanni Michelotti, who managed to redeploy most of the Herald body panels while giving the newcomer its own distinctive character, courtesy of a 'Chinese eye' four-headlamp front end. Power initially came from a 1596cc version of the family's straight-six Vanguard engine, though this was enlarged to 1998cc in 1966, when a more robust gearbox and better disc/drum brakes were also installed. However, the most important update occurred two years later, when the rear suspension was heavily redesigned in order to dial out the tuck-in oversteer, for which the original swing axle set-up had become renowned. The problem was solved using lower links and Rotoflex couplings to create a similar set up to that of the related GT6. Power was once again increased, this time to 104bhp, which was sufficient to accelerate the little Triumph to 60mph in 11.3 seconds and attain a top speed of just over the magic 100mph. The two-door Vitesse was available in both Saloon and Convertible guises and 51,212 examples of the model had been produced by the time it was usurped by the all new Dolomite in 1971.

The right-hand drive Vitesse on sale dates from 1970 and, according to its chassis number, started life as a Saloon before being reconfigured as a Convertible - a relatively simple process thanks to the model's separate chassis. The Triumph is equipped with manual gearbox and overdrive, and sports Yellow bodywork allied to a black interior. 'EDA 454J' formed part of a private collection in the Lake District for ten years, but has subsequently been recommissioned and now comes complete with lots of invoices for work done and its original owner's books, old MOTs etc, plus MOT and tax valid until the end of August next year. The vendor regards the engine, gearbox and interior trim as "good", the bodywork as "good/fair" and the paintwork as "fair". Easy to work on and practical to use, these four seat Convertibles are an eminently affordable summer classic.