Highlights
- Vast history file including original bill of sale from September 1975
- Great example of a very usable four-seater classic
- MOT, ULEZ and tax exempt
- Broadspeed-built engine
- Reportedly once owned by Anthony Hamilton, father of Lewis Hamilton
The Appeal
By the time the Triumph Dolomite appeared it 1971, it was already an evolution of a much older car, but with its sharp Michelotti-styling it could more than hold its own against European competition –– and that included such esteemed rivals as the BMW 02-Klasse, which was the benchmark for European sporting saloons.
The BMW 2002, in particular, was held in high regard, but Triumph had an ace up its sleeve in the form of the Dolomite Sprint – with the world’s first mass-produced 16v engine. It was also the first mass-produced car to come with alloy wheels as standard, so was quite the innovator.
Its 127bhp delivered the 60mph dash in 8.4secs – heady stuff in 1973 – and its rear wheel drive offered handling to match the Bavarian.
It was all topped off with a characterful wood-trimmed interior, making it arguably one of the best cars to ever come out of the British motor industry, albeit blighted like so many of its peers by woeful quality control when new. Survivors are rare and sought after and this one is an absolute peach, subject to and extensive structural, mechanical and interior restoration several years ago, it presents in show condition. It’s a truly lovely car.
The History and Paperwork
- UK V5C
- MOT December 2024 despite being MOT-exempt
- Tax and ULEZ exempt First registered 1st September 1975
- VIN records confirm this is a factory Sprint built in early 1975
- Extensive history file including huge collection of old MOTs to verify mileage
- The speedometer was changed in the mid 2000's - the mileage is 58500 which can be demonstrated through the history file. It has not been round the clock.
- The vendor tells us that it was once owned by Lewis Hamilton's father but we are unable to verify this
- Original typewritten bill of sale showing £2,538.79 purchase price
- Plenty of old invoices covering the car’s renovation in 2004 and 2008
- 2004 renovation costing £5,287.50 by Chuter Hill Coachworks
- Later quote for comprehensive restoration from 2008
- Invoices for re-veneering woodwork from 2004 and 2008
- Original handbook in good condition
The Condition
- Gorgeous Pimento Red coachwork with no notable flaws or imperfections
- Older comprehensive restoration that has held up very well
- Crisp Michelotti styling enhanced by Sprint details such as its vinyl roof
- Factory correct alloy wheels with polished rims in good order
- No immediately visible blemishes or marks
- Matt black painted sections completed to a high standard with no marks visible
- Quality Pirelli tyres with plenty of tread
- Panel gaps consistent with good fit across the car
- Painted underside shows extent of restoration
- Chrome, lights and glass in similarly very good order and correct to the car
- Charming, well-preserved standard interior
- Standard factory cloth seats retaining good deep blue colour depth and fabric finish
- Door cards present well, just some light creases notable on one rear trim
- Veneers in superb condition reflecting prior reconditioning
- Smiths dials with clear dials and good rims
- Speedometer has been changed in the early / mid 2000's and the history file demonstrates a mileage of 58500 miles with a very low ownership
- Original period correct Motorola radio
- Pretty three spoke dished sports steering wheel
- Overall, a beautiful, show quality car
The Mechanics
- 1,998cc 16 valve Triumph ‘slant four’ engine developing 127bhp
- 4spd manual gearbox with desirable overdrive
- Rear wheel drive
- Evidence of considerable mechanical work shown in history file
- Engine rebuilt by Broadspeed Engineering
- Full stainless exhaust system
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
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✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]