Jim,
Triumph Heralds are great cars!!!
I belive 1959 was the first year they were made. The original engine
would be a 948cc which is kinda rare, but it's main value is to racers
who just want the head. You are right about the Spitfire connection,
most of the running gear and suspension parts will exchange without
modification. This car sounds like it's in good shape, but trust me,
rust never sleeps. You may find it in some pretty unexpected locations
if you look harder. As for price, $1000 is pretty steep for a
restoration project. I got my first Herald for free, and the second one
for $600, which was still a little too much. They are easy to work on,
and great for summer crusing, as everyone wants to know what the funny
little car is:) Drop me a line if you would like to know more, or want
to see what a Herald project involves. I'm in the south bay.
Cheers,
John Matthews
'61 & '65 Heralds
Jim Boyd wrote:
>
> Hey Listers:
>
> I have an opportunity to purchase a 1959 Triumph Herald Convertible. The
> car seems to be reasonably intact, although it has been stored outside,
> uncovered, for about 15 years. There does not seem to be any visible rust
> (thank you, California!), no major body damage at all, etc. All the side
> body trim strips, over riders, etc are all there, too. All the doors open
> and close quite nicely and the bonnet and bootlid also operate smoothly.
> The engine sits there, intact; not sure if it is free or not. The interior
> is shot, seats, soft top, etc. Convertible top bows are in place with
> remnants of material, but again, operates quite nicely!
>
> Questions: How rare is this car? Are parts available to restore it in the
> US? What size is the engine (I'm guessing about 1000 - 1100cc)? Are there
> some obvious pitfalls to this particular car? There seem to be some
> connections to the Spitfire - could some Spit running gear be interchangeable?
>
> He wants $1000 US firm for this car. That seems steep for a car that has
> been sitting so long...any thoughts on value as it sits vs a restored car?
> It looks like it would be a fun 4 seater car to cruise in!
>
> Any feedback would be appreciated! If I decide to pass on the car, I will
> let the List know the whereabouts, and contact person, etc.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Jim Boyd
> Northern CA
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