+1 313 312 0780

1962 Triumph TR3B

Lot 169 | The Academy of Art University Collection Saturday, 15 February 2025

Estimate: $30,000 - $40,000
| Offered Without Reserve
Offered Without Reserve

1962 Triumph TR3B

Lot 169 | The Academy of Art University Collection Saturday, 15 February 2025

Estimate: $30,000 - $40,000
| Offered Without Reserve
Offered Without Reserve
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Broad Arrow Auctions | 1962 Triumph TR3B
Broad Arrow Auctions | 1962 Triumph TR3B

The Academy of Art University Collection

  • Produced in a brief nine-month production run for the American market
  • Late TCF-series example benefitting from TR4-derived mechanical improvements including synchronized transmission and larger 2,138 cc engine
  • Expertly restored by T's Sunrise of Denver—finished in British Racing Green over beige with tan top and tonneau
  • Highly detailed presentation throughout, featuring wire wheels, Lucas driving lamps, and correct Jaeger instrumentation
  • Offered with a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate confirming original build details

Commission No. TCF1670L
Body No. 2218/TSF
Engine No. TS78971E

Quick, lightweight, and relatively inexpensive, the Triumph's TR3 outperformed contemporary MGs and Austin-Healeys all while enjoying surprising reliability, making it America's best selling imported sports car by the late 1950s. Instantly recognizable by its wide-mouth grille, Triumph would refine the wildly popular British sports car in September 1957 with exterior door handles, integrated turn signal lights, and more comfortable seating—a variant enthusiasts would come to designate the “TR3A.”

Introduced in autumn 1961, the Italian-styled TR4 was intended to succeed the TR3. However, U.S. market demands prompted Triumph to develop the “TR3B” in 1962—a value-oriented alternative assembled by Forward Radiator Company. While early TSF variants mirrored the TR3A specification, the later TCF models incorporated significant TR4 mechanical improvements, including the synchronized transmission, enlarged brakes, and more powerful 2,138 cc engine producing 100 horsepower. Just 3,334 examples were produced during a brief nine-month production run, all in left-hand drive for the American market.

According to its British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, this later TCF-series TR3B was completed on 26 August 1962, equipped with a heater, windscreen washers, USA/Canada specification lights, a Black tonneau cover, Black side screens, a “Rationalised” gearbox, and a 86 mm bore engine. The car was dispatched to Standard Triumph Motor Company Inc. in Boston aboard the American Manufacturer, and while much of its early history remains unknown, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration by marque specialist T's Sunrise of Denver, Colorado. The exceptional quality of work is evident in the meticulous attention to detail. Finished in classic British Racing Green, the car features excellent brightwork, wire wheels, badge-mounted auxiliary Lucas driving lamps, a beautifully restored dashboard with Jaeger gauges, beige leatherette upholstery, a tan soft top, and complementary tan tonneau cover and black side curtains.

Among classic British sports cars, the TR3 series—particularly the rare TR3B—remains highly regarded by enthusiasts for its pure sporting character and engaging road manners. This expertly restored example represents a compelling opportunity to acquire one of Triumph's most celebrated roadsters.

Jakob Greisen
Senior Car Specialist