1964 Triumph Herald 1200 Convertible

Leyland Motors took over Standard-Triumph in 1961 and re-launched the Herald with an 1147cc four cylinder engine and four speed manual gearbox.  The coachwork was styled by Michelotti and featured a smart laminated wood dashboard and rubber covered bumpers to front and rear. Unusually for the period, the Herald came with a separate steel chassis and the convertible offered seating for up to four adults, with a simple to use folding roof. Reliable and economical to use, the forward hinging bonnet made access to the engine and front suspension very easy for maintenance. Small wonder that the Herald proved so popular. If you are looking for a genuine four seat tourer, the Herald is certainly well worth a look.

This example was owned by Freda Puddy of Burnham-on-Sea from 1977. A decade later it was purchased by Francis Britton of Bristol before passing to its third owner who lived in Sutton Bingham, Dorset. The current engineer custodian bought the Herald in 2016 as a project after it had been in storage for over twenty years. A restoration commenced: the rear tub was removed to repair the chassis and new outriggers and side members were fitted. The braking system was overhauled with replacement hydraulics installed, and the steering rack has new gaiters. The radiator was re-cored and the gearbox was removed with a new clutch plate and hydraulics fitted, together with a new battery, dynamo and fuel pump. Several panels have been replaced and the body work partly resprayed. The Herald was also equipped with new: rubber bumpers, two front tyres, screen rubber, door cards, front seat covers and a carpet set. The hood has also been replaced and has new seals. Upon completion, the motor car passed an MOT in 2017 and has been enjoyed infrequently ever since. We understand that the non-standard temperature gauge and speedometer unit are not currently working, but the original speedometer is included in the sale. However, the Herald remains in good, usable condition and is a perfect starter classic ready for the summer.

The history file contains the original handbook, the original service book, an MOT test certificate from 1988 and the certificate from 2017, five tax discs dating to 1971, an old V5 document, the current V5C registration certificate, and invoices relating to the restoration.

Auction Date: 9 June 2022