- Extremely impressive restored example
- Restored by Mr. Hans Kooij, a renowned Triumph specialist based in the Netherlands. It presents in concours-quality condition throughout
- Nowadays a restoration carried out on this level would cost around € 120.000,- to € 150.000,-
- Finished in a striking, rare and original color combination
At the time, TR3 was more powerful than the majority of its competitors, including cars like Porsche 356, Sunbeam Alpine and, of course, the MGA
- Originally equipped with highly desirable factory-fitted overdrive gearbox
- Originally delivered with the rare occasional rear seat
- It comes with a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, confirming its factory specification and build date
- Canada-supplied, Left-Hand-Drive example

Introduced in 1955 the TR3 was an evolution of Triumph’s 1953 TR2.

The original TR had proved popular and effective on track and public highway, so Triumph simply updated the design for the 3.

The Triumph TR3 was built between 1955 and 1957 by Standard-Triumph in the United Kingdom.

Although the car was usually supplied as an open two-seater, an occasional rear seat and bolt on steel hard top were available as extras.

A softtop was always delivered with the car even as side screens.

The car was powered by a 1991 cc engine which initially produced 95 bhp increasing to 100 bhp at 5000 rpm .

The four speed manual transmission could be supplemented by an overdrive unit on the top three ratios electrically operated and controlled by a switch on the dash.

The large capacity four cylinder unit made a little under 100bhp, which may not seem much these days, but Car and Driver magazine described the lightweight TR3’s acceleration as ‘neck-snapping’.

In fact, at the time, TR3 was more powerful than the majority of its competitors, including cars like Porsche 356, Sunbeam Alpine and, of course, the MGA.

The model was updated twice during its lifespan, with the TR3A produced from 1957, and TR3B, which was only made in 1962, the last year of production.

The TR3 succeeded in achieving numerous racing victories in its class between 1955 and 1959.

Notable performances were winning the Liège-Rome-Liège rallies in 1956 and the Sebring 12 Hours in 1957. The car proved very capable on gravel too.

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

This wonderful TR3 was built on December 2, 1955, as a Left-Hand-Drive example equipped with disc wheels and overdrive.

It was originally delivered in Canada, later finding its way to the Netherlands in 1988.

This Triumph TR3 was restored by Mr. Hans Kooij, a renowned Triumph specialist based in the Netherlands, known for his lifelong dedication to classic British sports cars, particularly the TR2 and TR3 series.

Mr. Kooij has earned a reputation across Europe for his exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and mechanical expertise.

Over the decades, he has restored dozens of Triumphs to concours-level condition, with many of his cars featured at prestigious shows, classic rallies, and in specialist publications.

We recently acquired the car from him.

This TR3 served as a showcase restoration project for Mr. Kooij, and his expertise is evident in every detail.

The results are simply stunning.

The elegant Beige soft top, tonneau cover, hood stick cover, and side curtains complement the Maritime Blue exterior beautifully.

Inside, maritime blue leather seats are as-new, and are matched by a blue leather dashboard and matching blue carpets.

The craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout the interior upholstery are second to none.

CONDITION EXTERIOR

We know Mr. Kooij for many years and the part he liked most was to work himself on the bodypanels. He absolutely hated plaster and cars had to be as thin as possible. He should have been the best possible body restorer for extremely expensive Ferrari’s etc. but he preferred the Triumph and spend the same time in a Triumph as he would do in a couple of million costing Ferrari.
The result of his work is difficult to describe but will be immediately recognized if one sees the car.

The exterior of this TR3 is immaculate and presents to an exceptional standard.

The paintwork is deep, glossy, and evenly applied, with excellent panel alignment and shut lines throughout.

The chrome trim, grille, and bumpers shine brilliantly.

The body is extremely straight, with no visible blemishes, dents, or imperfections.

Wheels are in superb condition, and period-correct detailing like the Triumph badging and light lenses are all pristine.

Even the underbody of the Triumph is immaculate. We can send you photo’s.
Due to the fact that the Triumph drove approximately 1.500 kilometers since restoration, the wheel arches show meticulous.

CONDITION INTERIOR

The interior is in concours-quality condition, showing virtually no wear.

The maritime blue leather is soft, supple, and unblemished, providing both comfort and visual appeal.

The dashboard is beautifully finished, with clear instrumentation, crisp switchgear, and flawless stitching.

Carpets are unworn and perfectly fitted, extending through the footwells and rear seat area.

The beige tonneau and side curtains are in like-new condition and fit snugly when in use.

Overall, the interior reflects a level of finish and refinement rarely seen, even in restored classic cars.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The TR3 is a proper roadster, a car that’s meant to be driven on sunny days with the top down.

There’s plenty of storage space for traveling compared to other small two-seaters and within moment you can create a different look on the car, depending on weather conditions.

The TR3 is also equipped with a desirable overdrive gearbox. This makes driving a lot more pleasant, certainly while driving on highways.

There’s an adjustable air vent behind the bonnet for hot weather and the typical valve on top of the engine for the colder nights to get some heat in the cabin.

Any sports car lover will adore this TR3, because it shows concours-quality inside and out.

The saying ‘beauty is in the details’ counts with this Triumph, especially when you see the immaculate engine bay.

Despite the fact that this car is better than when it left the factory.

Disclaimer
The information provided on this website has been compiled by The Houtkamp Collection with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. The Houtkamp Collection is not liable for any errors or mistakes.