1966 Triumph TR4A

TRIUMPH TR4A

By 1965 the TR4 was the only live axle model in the Triumph range, and the TR4A was intended to rectify this state of affairs. It looked much the same as its predecessor - an RWD open top sports car with 2,138cc engine - but the rear chassis was extensively modified to accept the 2000 saloon influenced semi-trailing wishbones and coil springs. This meant that Triumph was now the first British car manufacturer to have all-independent suspensions on all of their cars.

TR4A production began in January 1965 and officially debuted two months later. Triumph enthusiasts noted how the new model had a walnut veneer dashboard, a chrome side strip incorporating am indicator repeater and a revised front grille. The seats were also improved; there were a more powerful cylinder head, longer front springs and a more refined hood that attached to the TR4A's body. As with the TR4, overdrive, Hard and Surrey Tops and wire wheels were optional extras. The price was £968 4s 7d for the soft top model and £1,010 10s 5d for the hard top version. The top speed was 109 despite the TR4A being 100lbs heavier than the TR4.

US dealers were also offered a live axle TR4A to keep costs down, with IRS a $147 option. From 1966 onwards some TR4As reverted to using SU HS6 carburettors in place of Strombergs, but this may have been due to supply problems. Harrington Coachbuilders converted a small number of Dové GTR4A hardtops, but these are very rare.

The TR5/250 replaced the TR4A in August 1967.

As with the TR4, the TR4A was powered by a 2,138cc S4 OHV engine with a 4-speed all-synchromesh transmission. The optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive operated on the top three ratios.

Some drives find the TR4A's handing improved while others note how the body lean was somewhat more pronounced, and the rear suspension is overly soft. The cabin with its adjustable steering column and elaborate fascia certainly makes the Triumph a very agreeable tourer.

The TRA inevitably shares many potential problems with the TR4; corrosion of the chassis, bulkhead, inner wings and boot floor, overheating and poor panel alignment. Especial attention should be paid to the TR4A's differential mounts.

The TR4A is a prime example of how Triumph progressively honed the TR formula. It may bear a strong resemblance to the TR4 but has a distinct character of its own.

Competition for the TR4A was from the MGB, the Sunbeam Alpine Series IV and Series V, the Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider 1600 and the Nissan Fairlady SPL311.