1949 Triumph 2000 Roadster

Prior to World War II, Triumph produced a quality vehicle that was admired for its performance. The Standard company saw an opportunity to purchase the Triumph Company and help move them up-market and to complement the more workaday Standards. In 1944, design work began. The result of their work was a car that was offered in two body styles - a saloon and sports roadster - using a common engine and gearbox and similar running gear. The chassis feature an all-new design and an independent front suspension. Due to a shortage of steel, the main body panels were comprised of aluminum alloy. The Roadsters wore a design by Standard's Frank Callaby and featured an unusual dickey seat, which had been a feature of the pre-war Triumph Dolomite Roadster Coupe.

This particular roadster is a right-hand drive example and is one of about 2,000 examples produced between 1948 and 1949, featuring the larger 2.1-liter engine. It is a restored car that has been finished in black with a tan top and a tan leather interior. In the front are large King of the Road headlamps, Lucas fog lights, dual chrome horns, and a chrome grille, as well as a marker lamp and rearview mirror mounted atop each front fender.

This roadster has its original grease gun, air pump, and tools. The engine is a 2088cc overhead valve four-cylinder unit fitted with a Single Solex carburetor and offering nearly 70 horsepower. There is a 3-speed manual transmission and 4-wheel drum brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2015