Lot details
Registration No: UN-REG
Chassis No: TRD689
Mot Expiry: None

Despite Donald Healey's best efforts during the 1930s to reinvent Triumph as a British equivalent of Alfa Romeo by the time war broke out in 1939 the company was bankrupt. Purchased in 1945 by Standard impresario Sir John Black, two new models were introduced the following year, an 1800 Saloon and the curvaceous Frank Callaby designed 1800 Roaster. The latter was a strikingly flamboyant blend of 1930s styling cues and featured what is believed to be the last dickie seat incorporated into a production car. Bodywork was predominantly fabricated from 'Birmabright' an aluminium alloy used extensively in World War Two aircraft (though the pontoon front wings were steel). Mechanically it was rather more orthodox. Its leaf sprung chassis was fitted with all round drum brakes. The 1776cc, ohv, 65bhp, four cylinder engine was the same unit that had seen service pre-war in Jaguar's SS 1½ litre Saloons. In combination with the column change, four-speed manual gearbox it gave a top speed of 80mph. Total 1800 Roadster production was a mere 2,501 cars.
Finished in black with matching upholstery and a cream hood, this particular right-hand drive example has had some light remedial paintwork but otherwise looks to be extremely original. A wonderful period piece, it sports a turned aluminium bulkhead, single Solex carburettor and 'A Burgess Acoustic Product' chrome plated air filter.