Description
H&H Classic Auction @ The Imperial War Museum, Duxford/ Cambridgeshire
20th September, 2023 10:00
1974 Triumph Stag
Estimate
£9, 000 - £11, 000
Registration No: VGF 222M
Chassis No: LD31278BW
MOT: Exempt
An older restoration carried out in the late 1980’s to early 1990’s
Featured on the front cover of ‘Practical Classics’ April 2020
History file containing invoices dating back as far as 1980, the original handbook including the service book and more
Introduced in June 1970, the Triumph Stag was conceived as a luxury convertible sportscar to rival the likes of the R107-series Mercedes-Benz SL. As such, it came equipped with electric windows, power-assisted rack and pinion steering, and servo-backed disc / drum brakes as standard. Based around a two-door monocoque bodyshell (stylist Giovanni Michelotti had physically shortened a pre-production Triumph 2000 saloon in order to fashion the initial prototype), the newcomer featured all-round independent suspension (McPherson strut front / semi-trailing arm rear) and a well laid-out 2+2 cabin. Neatly integrated, the substantial roll-over hoop that joined the B-pillars gained extra strength from a T-bar link to the windscreen frame. With some 145bhp and 167lbft of torque on tap from its bespoke 2997cc SOHC V8 engine, the model was reputedly capable of 120mph. Available with a choice of four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission, all but the earliest Stags benefited from both hard and soft-top roofs. Despite being in production for seven years, during which time 25, 877 cars were made, a mere 9, 500 or so are thought to have survived.
Presented in a pleasing combination of Royal Blue with Shadow Blue matching interior, this particular Stag was first delivered to F S Arthur & Co Ltd of Brentwood on 22 February 1974. Having been restored in the late 80’s to early 90’s, the car has been in current ownership since 2020. Now showing 48, 183 miles on the odometer, thought to be since the restoration, ‘VGF 222M’ was subject to a comprehensive service in December 2018, which included the timing chain replacement and a brake overhaul. In February 2019, the car was subject to replacement seat foam and headrest covers, with the month before, the wheels refurbished and diamond cut. More recently, in October 2022, the plugs and coils were replaced, carburettors balanced and filters replaced.
Accompanied with the vehicle is an impressive history file organised by the previous owner. This contains a comprehensive collection of invoices dating back as far as 1980, showing regular maintenance. The original Triumph wallet is also included which contains the handbook and passport to service. This contains stamps up to 05 August 1976 at 16, 900 miles. The current V5C document is also included which displays 9 former keepers.
