Description
1957 Triumph TR3 — “Small Mouth” — High-compression engine — Impeccable structure, proven mechanicals
My Vintage Car presents this 1957 Triumph TR3 in its original configuration — a genuine TR3, not a TR3A or TR3B. It is distinguished by its narrow grille, known as the “small mouth”, today particularly sought after by collectors for the purity of its lines and its relative rarity compared with the TR3As, produced in much larger quantities.
IDENTITY AND HISTORY
Its chassis number TS14001E confirms its belonging to the TR3 range and attests to an original high-compression engine configuration, the suffix “E” being specifically assigned to this variant. The car is left-hand drive (LHD), a configuration in line with the majority of export production. Registered on a collector’s vehicle registration, it benefits from a documented history and numerous invoices.
CONDITION
The car rests on a top-tier structural base. It shows absolutely no corrosion, including in normally vulnerable areas: chassis, floors, sills and boot floor are perfectly sound. The bodywork presents a very satisfactory overall condition. The paint, aged, shows a few imperfections consistent with its age, not impairing the overall quality. No accidents to our knowledge.
MECHANICS
This TR3 has recently benefited from an extensive refresh in our workshops: overhaul of the braking system, replacement of carburettors, engine tuning and complete fluid refresh. Compression values are available on request. The engine is characterised by its smoothness, the gearbox by the quality of its engagement. Straight-line handling and braking for a healthy drive faithful to the spirit of the first-generation TRs. The steering exhibits a slight play, in line with period standards and without impact on driving pleasure. Gearbox without overdrive, in keeping with the configuration of many models in the series.
PRESENTATION
The cockpit preserves an authentic patina, coherent with the car’s overall condition. Faithful to its original configuration, this TR3 is devoid of exterior door handles — a distinctive detail contributing to the purity of its lines. It is equipped with a deeply adjustable steering column and retains all of its elements: hood, side-screens, hood cover and tonneau cover, all in excellent condition. Chrome elements particularly well preserved. Chrome wire wheels free from defects. A rear luggage rack and side mirrors on the front wings complete the ensemble harmoniously. Speedometer: 5, 000 miles (not certified).
IN SUMMARY
A ‘Small Mouth’ TR3 that brings together fundamentals rarely found today: structural integrity, mechanical quality and presentation coherence.
