1963 Triumph TR4

Building on the tremendous success of the TR3 and TR3A, Triumph unveiled the TR4 in 1961 as a more refined evolution of its celebrated roadster. Designed by renowned Italian stylist Giovanni Michelotti, the TR4 marked a dramatic stylistic departure from its predecessor, replacing the TR3's low-cut doors and distinctive grille with a cleaner, more contemporary design. Taller doors with roll-up windows, a higher beltline, a spacious trunk, and a fresh front-end treatment transformed the TR4 into a sports car that was both more contemporary and considerably more practical. By combining an affordable price with capable open-top performance, the TR4 quickly became one of Triumph's most beloved models and remains one of the defining British sports cars of its era.

Although designated as a 1963 model, this Triumph TR4 was built around May or June 1962, consistent with standard production sequencing for early 1963-model cars. As was common among British manufacturers of the era, cars built late in one calendar year or early in a new model run were often registered by dealerships in the year they were ultimately sold.

Restored to an exceptional standard, this 1963 model retains the charm and simplicity that made the TR4 so successful while benefiting from a careful restoration that makes it equally enjoyable to drive today. Its desirable factory Surrey Top, featuring a removable vinyl insert and stowable frame, offers open-air enjoyment with added versatility. Inside, the revised cabin reflects the TR4's evolution with adjustable fascia ventilation and a collapsible steering column. These improvements helped the TR4 keep pace with growing competition in key export markets. Every detail reflects the car's classic design while ensuring it remains as rewarding to drive today as it was when new.

The TR4’s 2.1-liter inline-four engine produces 127 lb-ft of torque and breathes through twin Zenith Stromberg carburetors, maintaining the traditional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. It is paired with a fully synchronized four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with upper and lower wishbones and telescopic dampers, and a live rear axle with semi-elliptical springs. Combined with precise rack-and-pinion steering, the TR4 delivers the responsive handling and engaging character that established it as one of Britain's most respected sports cars.

With 40,253 TR4s produced between 1961 and 1965, including approximately 10,082 built for the 1963 model year, the model proved highly successful in export markets, with the vast majority destined for the United States. The TR4 introduced refinements such as wind-up windows, improved ventilation, and the innovative Surrey Top, which foreshadowed the modern Targa concept. It also paved the way for later developments such as the independent rear suspension of the TR4A, successfully modernizing the traditional British roadster. More than sixty years after leaving the Coventry factory, the TR4 continues to be a rewarding car whose influence extends well beyond its production years. This 1963 model is proudly displayed alongside a 1961 TR3, a 1971 TR6, and a 1973 TR6, highlighting the evolution of the Triumph lineage.