1957 Devin Triumph Special Roadster

Bill Devin established himself as a renowned innovator in the automotive industry when he introduced the first belt-driven overhead cam engine. Later, he covered racecars in new lightweight materials. Many British machines were given the Devin treatment, including James Gary's 1956 Triumph TR2. Gary commissioned Devin to body his purpose-built racecar. The 'Gary Special's' was first shown at the Los Angeles Concours d'Elegance before it was taken to the racetrack by Don McQuilken. The 'Gary Special' had an active racing career around the United States in 1959, despite its new Canadian owner. After it was retired, the roadster remained in Canada under the care of its second owner. The power plant was later replaced with a British engine, the all-aluminum V8 Rover. The underpinnings were also upgraded to cope with the more powerful engine and the body was removed and given several coats of hand-rubbed paint. The 3.5-liter V8 was rebuilt and detuned for street use. By the time the restoration was complete, no bolt had been untouched and no expense was spared to bring the car back to concours condition.

This car is titled as a 1963 and is finished in maroon racing livery and the number 12. There are wire-mesh headlight covers, knock-off wire wheels, dual windscreens, and symmetrical roll bars. The interior is finished in black with hand-formed aluminum racing seats, a red five-point racing harness, a classic wooden steering wheel, and a well-organized dash. Under the bonnet is an aluminum V8 engine with an Edelbrock carburetor.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2016