Description
Exceptionally rare colour combination
Low indicated miles
Matching numbers
In original specification
Subject to major recommissioning in 2017/ 2018
Conceived as a competitor to BMW’s feisty little 2002, the Dolomite Sprint was introduced as a sporty range topper for Triumph’s compact saloon. Its party piece was an innovative 16 valve head on the slant four engine - the first time this had appeared on a mass produced car. The 127 bhp it freed up helped the Sprint to an impressive 0-60 time of 8. 5 seconds and a makeover which included standard alloy wheels (another mass production first), black vinyl roof, a lip spoiler and twin exhausts gave it the right look. A successful motorsport career followed for the Sprint and production ran from 1973 to 1980.
We are delighted to offer this 1974 Triumph Dolomite Sprint in French Blue with grey cord interior. If this hue is unfamiliar to you that’s because it’s extremely rare, being an early colour which was discontinued around 1976. The heritage certificate confirms it as original and that the car was built in April 1974 before being supplied to Sparshatts of Andover, who registered it in the September. Since then it appears to have only done an indicated 16, 000 miles in the hands of 5 owners. We’re pleased to say the original book pack is present, together with the Passport to Service which sets out the early service history but after that there is little paperwork until 2017/ 2018 when there is a hefty sheaf for invoices. We suspect that at some point the Sprint was taken off the road and in 2017 an extensive recommission took place. We would certainly urge you to take a look through the invoices which suggest a very thorough job.
Outside, the French Blue paintwork is lovely and bright with only minimal signs of age. The vinyl roof is smart and all the correct Sprint trim is present and correct. A replacement NSR corner is supplied to address some peeling chrome on the rear bumper but the remainder of the brightwork sports only a gentle patina. The condition of the cabin is even better than the exterior. Clean seats, free from rips and tears, and undamaged plastics fully support that minimal indicated mileage. The walnut dash is particularly impressive, the wood looking virtually new, and the door cards remain covered in their protective plastic.
The car comes with V5C, the current MOT (advisory free and running until August 2027), an old MOT, the book pack and Passport to Service, a Heritage Certificate and a bundle of invoices for parts and maintenance.
Combine the delightful and rare specification of this Sprint with an indicated mileage that seems entirely credible and believable given the outstanding condition of the car and you have a true collector quality example. All that recommissioning work also means that the little Triumph runs as well as it looks, sounding great and having been driven in rather than trailered to us. If you’re in the market for a Sprint, you’ll struggle to find better and we’d urge you to come and take a look - we doubt you’ll be disappointed.
