Lot details Registration No: ECK919W Chassis No: TWFLC3AT107757 Mot Expiry: May 2010
The 1970s incarnation of Triumph's Dolomite range harked back to the glamorous 1930s use of the Dolomite name for the company's most sporting roadster, and capitalized on the luxury image of the era. It had a complex history, but was originally developed under codename `Project Ajax' as a front-wheel drive car to replace the Triumph Herald. Later versions featured the long-tail body previously offered on the front-wheel drive Triumph 1500, and had Michelotti-designed coachwork. To replace the fwd 1500, the Dolomite 1850 was launched with an enlarged version of the Ricardo-designed overhead camshaft Saab 1709cc motor; Triumph's 1850cc version afforded greater power and torque. It was allied to the old front-wheel-drive 1500 bodyshell, but retained rear-wheel-drive, and was a competitor to contemporary BMW models on interior appointments and quality. It had a comparable power-to-weight ratio too, and could be bought at a cheaper price. In truth, the car appealed to those interested in traditional values, and the upgunned car remained popular with buyers looking for a compact luxury saloon.
Reportedly with a low recorded mileage still under 50,000, this late-built automatic version from 1980 is understood to benefit from "a comprehensive service history" detailing invoices and works done to keep the car in top order. Old MOTs enumerate the mileage accrued, and whilst the vendor notes the car has had some rust repairs completed, the Brooklands Green car is said to present in "good" order. Four previous owners are listed and the car is complete with its factory handbook, and a new battery. The owner describes the beige weave fabric interior as being in "very good" condition except for some glue marks to the headlining, while he considers the car's engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, bodywork and paintwork to be "good". A Dolomite has a firm and sporty ride, and feels spacious with upright glazing around the body. It's almost hard to believe they were made until 1980. These 1850 HL - for Highline - models are one of the best-kept secrets of 1970s motoring - almost all the usable performance of its Sprint brother, with fewer mechanical worries and a huge improvement in fuel economy. Truly the safe choice in the Dolomite range.
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