Highlights
- Rare and desirable “small mouth” variant of the TR3
- Comprehensively restored back to original specification, with over €20,000 invested
- Extensive restoration file including invoices and photographic documentation
- In current ownership since 2012
- Carte Grise de Collection
- Matching numbers reported
The Appeal
The early Triumph TR3, produced before the adoption of the wider grille that would define later cars, is affectionately known as the “small mouth.” As the direct successor to the TR2, it marks a pivotal moment in Triumph’s sporting heritage, and it’s notably rarer than the full-width-grille version—making it a particularly tempting find for fans of 1950s British roadsters.
Our 1956 example has been in the hands of its current owner since 2012, and during that time it has undergone a comprehensive, professionally executed restoration to original specification. We’re told that more than €20,000 has been spent on parts and labour, with everything backed up by invoices, and the process is fully documented with photographs. Finished in period-correct Primrose Yellow over a black interior with a walnut dashboard, the car runs chrome wire wheels and keeps its original-spec look throughout; the seller confirms no modifications have been made.
Mechanically, the engine has been completely overhauled by professionals and is reported to have good compression, with annual engine assessments carried out. The non-synchromesh first gear, four-speed gearbox and drum brakes are all correct for the period.
The seller, a long-standing member of the Triumph Club de France Provence Méditerranée, describes the driving experience as “spartan” but very pleasant—exactly the kind of thing you’d hope for from a 70-year-old British sports car. With its side windows, tonneau cover and hood included, this is a great opportunity to buy a well-documented, sympathetically restored early TR3.
History and Paperwork
- Exempt from Contrôle Technique (French MOT) as a vehicle manufactured before 1960
- Odometer reads 40,047 miles, which is believed to be correct but not verified
- Carte Grise de Collection
- Matching numbers reported by the seller
- Purchased by the current owner in 2012
- Over €20,000 spent on parts and labour during restoration, supported by invoices
- Extensive file with photographs documenting the restoration process
- The seller was a long-standing member of the Triumph Club de France Provence Méditerranée
The Condition
- Repainted in period-correct Primrose Yellow
- Chrome wire wheels fitted
- Bonnet and one door have been replaced
- Some small paint chips and minor impacts to address, but the seller reports a good overall exterior appearance
- Original specification respected throughout—no modifications made
- Upholstery and carpet re-fitted to original specification; carpet and door panel piping need replacing
- Walnut dashboard
- Side windows (old Perspex) and tonneau cover included in addition to the hood
- The seller describes the driving experience as “spartan,” but very pleasant for an enthusiast
The Mechanics
- 2.0-litre (1,991cc) four-cylinder engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Non-synchromesh 1st gear and drum brakes: all period-correct
- Engine overhauled and set up by professionals, with good compression reported
- Engine assessment carried out annually, we’re told

BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. However, you’re still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
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