1962 Triumph Vitesse

The Standard-Triumph company produced the Vitesse from May 1962 through July 1971. They wore styling by Giovanni Michelotti and were available as either saloons or convertibles. Power was from a 1596cc version of their traditional straight-6 derived from the engine found in the Standard Vanguard Six, but with a smaller bore diameter. It was fitted with twin Solex B32PIH semi-downdraught carburetors that were soon replaced by B321H carburetors.

The Triumph Vitesse was based on the Triumph Herald that had been introduced in 1959 and shared many components, including the chassis and Michelotti bodywork. The Vitesse was given a reworked front end with twin headlamp arrangements. The Herald had a 4-cylinder engine, while the Vitesse was given a 6-cylinder. The interior of the car was similar to the Herald but with the addition of wood veneer door cappings.

Over the production lifespan of the Vitesse, it received styling and mechanical improvements. The chassis was strengthened, and in 1964 a rev counter became standard, along with a temperature gauge. In 1966, the Vitesse received a 2-liter engine which gave the car an increase in horsepower and torque.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2015