TR2: The Knowledge
The result of a complete redesign of the 20TS prototype in 1952/1953, this car had a new chassis frame, more powerful engine and lengthened tail style. Engineering and redesign was by Harry Webster (chief chassis engineer), John Turnbull (chassis), David Eley (engine), George Jones (transmission), and Walter belgrove (body): testing was by Ken Richardson. The first hand assembled production cars (TS1 & TS2) were completed at Banner Lane in July 1953. Every other car (with 90bhp/1991cc) was assembled in the old assembly halls at Canley. Only 248 cars were delivered before the end of 1953. Until October 1954, the first 4000 cars were produced with 'long door' body shells. Thereafter the TR2 changed to 'short doors' with body sills under them. Production carried on until October 1955, when the TR3 took over. 8628 cars built from 1953 to 1955.
August 1953 to October 1955
PRODUCTION FIGURES
Produced for the Home Market - 2823
Produced for the Export Market - 5805
Total - 8636
BASIC PRICE
£555 + puchase tax
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Overdrive, wire wheels
ENGINE DETAILS
4 Cylinder 83mm x 92mm 1991cc, wet liner engine
Producing 90bhp at 4800rpm.
Max torque - 117lbs/ft at 3000rpm.
Twin 1½" SU Carbs
SUSPENSION DETAILS
Front: Independent by unequal length double wishbones, coil springs and telescopic dampers
Rear: Live axle, half elliptic springs and lever arm dampers
Wheels: Pressed steel disc with 5.50 x 15 tyres
PERFORMANCE DATA
Mean Maximum Speed - 103 mph
| 0 - 30 | 3.6 |
| 0 - 50 | 8.2 |
| 0 - 60 | 11.9 |
| 0 - 100 | 51.9 |
| Standing 1/4 mile | 18.7 secs |
| Overall fuel consumption | 32.0 mpg |
CLAIMS TO FAME
May 1953 - achieved 124.889 mph at Jabbeke, 1954 Milia Miglia - came 28th out of 450 starters, June 1954 Le Mans (fifth in class) July 1954 - Gatsonides and Slotemaker win Alpine Cup.
