1975 Triumph Dolomite Sprint

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 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

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