Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1971 Triumph Stag
No Reserve
Registration No: 34 RMU
Chassis No: LD2190
MOT: Exempt
Current ownership since 1994 and in need of restoration
Understood to be fitted with a Essex V4 engine mated to a manual gearbox
Offered with old style blue V5 However registered on HPI
Offered with cherished registration 34 RMU
Introduced in June 1970, the Triumph Stag was conceived as a luxury convertible sportscar to rival the likes of the R107-series Mercedes-Benz SL. As such, it came equipped with electric windows, power-assisted rack and pinion steering and servo-backed disc / drum brakes as standard. Based around a two-door monocoque bodyshell (stylist Giovanni Michelotti had physically shortened a pre-production Triumph 2000 saloon in order to fashion the initial prototype), the newcomer featured all-round independent suspension (McPherson strut front / semi-trailing arm rear) and a well laid-out 2+2 cabin. Neatly integrated, the substantial roll-over hoop that joined the B-pillars gained extra strength from a T-bar link to the windscreen frame. With some 145bhp and 167lbft of torque on tap from its bespoke 2997cc SOHC V8 engine, the model was reputedly capable of 120mph. Available with a choice of four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission all but the earliest Stags benefited from both hard- and soft-top roofs. Despite being in production for seven years during which time 25, 877 cars were made, a mere 9, 500 or so are thought to have survived.
Although nowhere near as prevalent as legend suggests, the Stag did suffer from engine failure on occasion especially if the 3-litre SOHC V8 was not maintained properly or filled with non-corrosion inhibiting coolant. Those owners unable to find or fund a Triumph replacement often installed a Ford Essex V6 or Rover V8 instead. An old V5 Registration Document on file suggests that '34 RMU' underwent a conversion to Ford 2. 5 litre power decades ago. A project when the vendor acquired it in 1994, the 2+2-seater remains in need of full restoration. Thought to be substantially complete, the Triumph rides on correct-type alloy wheels and is equipped with four-speed manual plus overdrive transmission. A great winter project and offered for sale at No Reserve.
