Lot details Registration No: MKE 131 Chassis No: TRA1923 Mot Expiry: Sept 2011
CURRENT OWNERSHIP SINCE 1972
Introduced in late 1948, the Triumph 2000 Roadster shared the same flamboyant styling and dickey seat as its Frank Callaby-penned predecessor, the 1800 of 1946, and was based around a near identical ladder-frame chassis. Its new 2088cc OHV four-cylinder engine was, however, considerably torquier than the smaller unit it replaced. Such was the newcomer's in-gear flexibility that a three- rather than four-speed gearbox was specified; operated by a column shift. This enabled three occupants to share the bench seat. Still bodied in 'Birmabright' alloy over an ash frame, save for its steel pontoon front wings, the 2000 used more panel bracing than the 1800 and thus provided a tauter drive. Just 2,000 2088 cc-powered Roadsters are thought to have been made during the two years of production.
'MKE 131' is one of that number. First registered on October 1st 1949, the Triumph is finished in British Racing Green with Red leather upholstery. It was sold new by Martin Walter of Folkstone - as confirmed by the neat metal badge on the fascia. The current owner purchased the car in September 1972 and believes it to be almost as original as the day it was made - with the obvious exception of the engine, which was apparently renewed in 1957. It has, however, enjoyed a high level of maintenance in the last few years. This has included: in 1976 - engine liners rebored and crankshaft reground, new clutch. In 2007 - oil pump overhauled and new drive gear fitted, new plugs, points, solenoid, battery, front tyres, track rod end, front radius arm bushes, master cylinder, starter motor and dynamo overhauled, car resprayed, temp gauge and speedometer repaired plus much re-chroming. In 2010 - new stainless steel exhaust system, reconditioned radiator and more re-chroming. Something of a family heirloom, 'MKE 131' conveyed the vendor and his new wife to Scotland and back on honeymoon in 1977, while some thirty years later it was used to ferry their daughter to church for her wedding. Currently on SORN this delightful-looking Roadster is, nonetheless, MOT'd into September 2011.
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