1970 Triumph Vitesse MkII Convertible

Description

• AT AUCTION – Please click HERE
• Factory built convertible
• 2.0 litre straight-six engine
• Old English White
• Very little recent use

In the early 1960s, Triumph created something of a stir. The Michelotti designed Triumph Herald Vitesse was unveiled. The refreshing combination of a light, quick, compact car caught everyone unawares. The subsequent Triumph Herald Vitesse Mk II with a large six-cylinder power plant had a smoother, torquier and much more desirable feel to it. In convertible form, they are becoming scarce and very desirable.

History

• First registered 5 May 1970
• This Herald is exempt from MOT
• Old MOTs in the Gallery
• Our vendor had one carried out in May 2023
• Only covered around 100 miles since MOT
• The well-respected Triumph club valued this car at c.£15,000

Mechanicals

In September 1966, the Triumph Vitesse 2.0 litre was launched.

The 2.0 litre straight-six was in line with that of the Triumph GT6 coupé. It came fitted with a beefier clutch, synchromesh gearbox, larger front brakes and an uprated rear diff.

The Mk II version came in in ’68. Triumph took the chance to carry out a thorough upgrade.

The 2.0 litre engine remained but came with extra horsepower in the form of 104bhp. New lower wishbones were fitted along with Rotoflex couplings. This changed the handling measurably from the earlier tail-happy cars. New Stomberg carbs were fitted to improve fuelling to the more powerful engine.

Our vendor advises us this Vitesse has had:

• A new oil pump
• Replacement camshaft
• New timing chain
• The crankshaft has benefitted from a regrind during his ownership
• The gearbox was reconditioned prior to his ownership around 5 years ago

Outside

Fashioned by Michelotti, the Vitesse brought Italian flair to the Triumph range through its nine-year run and was available as both a hard top and convertible.

The famous quad headlamps, slanted at an angle, distinguished the Vitesse from other cars in the range.

• Resprayed in Old English White around 3yrs ago
• Three bar front grille
• Stainless-steel boot-mounted luggage rack
• Steel wheels with original centre caps
• Under the bonnet looks clean and tidy
• The brightwork, lamps and glass all appear to be in good condition
• Chrome sill treads
• Images in the Gallery show the underside of the clam shell bonnet
• Black vinyl hood
• The rear screen and quarter lights are clear
• Full tonneau cover

Inside

There are no particular horrors to jump up and down about. The interior is clean, functional and aside from the replacement high-back seats, all as it should be

• Wood cappings on the doors
• Wooden dash fascia
• Black vinyl door cards
• There are bits and bobs the new owner might want to replace or improve on.
• Most items are available with a good number of quality suppliers at sensible prices

To be honest, we’d just jump in, drive and enjoy.

Summary

Stylish, lightweight and with a 2.0 litre straight six cylinder engine. The characteristics that made this so popular way back when, endures today.

This Vitesse is rarer and faster than the Herald it’s based on. And that front end has a character all of its own. These Triumphs are easy to own and well catered for by Triumph clubs and marque specialists.

The Vitesse is truly a great little roadster, and the market is finally starting to appreciate them for what they are. Fast. Fun. And fabulous value. This one is reserved very sensibly.

Vehicle Location: Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 – it’s the responsibility of the winning bidder to make collection / transportation arrangements directly with the vendors.

Would like to arrange a viewing or have a question about this Triumph Vitesse Mk II? Please contact us at team@evoke-classics.com and we will speak to the vendor on your behalf.

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