Description
Now this is pretty. Just arrived at Shore Classics is this charming and original Herald Convertible (CV code) presented in Cactus Green with Red trim and Black carpets. The subject of an older restoration, this proper 4-seater convertible comes with a decent soft-top and hood cover and is summer-ready for immediate enjoyment. With Heralds creeping up in price, this is pitched to sell quickly.
Designed by Giovanni Michelotti and featuring a large glass area (93% all-round visibility) and razor-edged looks, the Herald was a compact 2-door car introduced by Triumph in 1959 and ultimately available as a saloon, convertible, coupe, estate and even a van. Built on a separate chassis, the main tub was bolted on allowing the entire front end to hinge forward allowing easy engine access. Indeed, every panel could be unbolted from the car allowing the different body styles to be constructed. Initially fitted with a 948cc engine and 4-speed gearbox, rack and pinion steering afforded the car with an unbelievable 25ft turning circle making it easy to drive with notably light steering. Bigger engines with more power came in the early 1960`s with the final variant, the 13/ 60, being unveiled at the London Motor Show in October 1967. With a 1296cc engine developing 61bhp, this final incarnation come with updated front end (similar to a Vitesse) and revised interiors.
Our car was registered in March 1967 and is a genuine CV coded convertible, not a later converted saloon. Unfortunately, we know little of its history beyond the fact that up until very recently it was residing with a retired gentleman in Oxfordshire before moving to Somerset around a month ago. Changing personal circumstances has dictated that the Herald is now for sale once again. The car was evidently restored and repainted some years ago. Bodywork is generally very sound, chassis excellent and mechanically, all would appear healthy. Panel gaps to both doors could be improved but both open and shut easily whilst paintwork displays a few age-related blemishes and touched-in stone chips but nothing that detracts from the overall look of the car. The photographs tell the story. Inside, the original Red seats and door cards are very presentable with just a little wear evident, whilst wooden dash, carpets and general switchgear would seem in very good order. It is typical of an older restoration - immediately useable but scope to improve cosmetically as the car is enjoyed.
On the road, the car is a joy. It starts first time, every time and pulls away happily in 1st quickly changing through the gears. Steering is beautifully positive, brakes firm and enough power from the 1147cc 4-pot to keep up with modern traffic. I drove it last evening on the coast road between Abbotsbury and Bridport, a favourite with drivers and bikers alike. It didn’t` disappoint managing Abbotsbury Hill in 3rd gear and happy cruising at 50-55 mph on the flat. Great visibility (hood up or down), light steering and perfect road manners - it`s easy to see why it was so popular when new.
The Herald comes with a decent hood, hood cover, Haynes Manual and current V5C. Being classed as Historic, it is naturally both MoT and road tax exempt.
A charming and very useable 4-seater classic convertible ready for the summer ahead. Priced to sell.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today. We are happy to take a reservation fee to hold a vehicle but as a dealership, we don`t operate a structured distance selling scheme.
