Description
When the Vitesse 6 was introduced in May 1962, Standard-Triumph created something of a stir, with the unusual combination of an existing compact car (the Triumph Herald) with a larger six-cylinder power plant to produce an up-market model with better performance from a smoother, more torquey engine, which made for a more pleasurable car to drive.
The 2-door Triumph Herald (introduced in 1959) had sharp looks styled by the Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti, who also provided the revised front end for the Vitesse, which featured a slanted 4-headlamp design. The Vitesse also received a more luxurious interior in comparison to the Herald, with better seats, door trims and wooden door cappings to match the wooden dashboard. After 1963, a full range of Smiths instruments was fitted to the Vitesse dashboard. The engine used is a 1596 cc version of the traditional straight-6 motor derived from the larger cars in the Standard-Triumph range, developing a claimed 70 bhp.
The new Vitesse 6 sold very well for Triumph, receiving praise for its performance, fuel economy, interior design and tight turning circle. With over 30, 000 manufactured by the time production ceased in September 1966, it was a better seller than the 2-litre Vitesse model introduced as its replacement.
We know that this Vitesse 6 Convertible was first registered, new in the UK, on 7 October 1965 but have no further documented history until it was purchased by its last owner in 2022. The car was used in France at the owner’s property periodically, prior to returning to the UK. Le Riche Automobile acquired the Vitesse earlier this year (2026).
The car drives very well, with the six-cylinder engine starting easily and running smoothly. It has been mechanically checked over by ourselves and received an oil change, new battery and any minor adjustments as needed.
This Vitesse has clearly been the subject of extensive restoration work at some point and the sharply-styled Michelotti body looks very smart in its Wedgewood Blue paint finish. The car has a good, solid chassis and the underside of the body is particularly clean and finished in body colour. The hood and its associated folding mechanism is in good shape.
In keeping with the exterior, the interior of the car is also very smart. At the very least the front seat covers appear to have been replaced and the carpets renewed. The remaining vinyl upholstery is in good condition and the wooden dashboard and door cappings are complete and in good fettle.
A smart and eminently usable restored example of an open-topped Triumph Vitesse – ready for a new owner to enjoy, be it Summer cruising or attending local classic motor events.
UK registered, the car is currently located in Dorset and viewing can be arranged by appointment.
