Triumph TR4 / TR4A Buyers Guide

The first big change, and the first Leyland TR. Mechanically based on the TR3A, but with modified chassis, and rack and pinion steering. 100bhp/2138cc standard: all were given an all synchromesh gearbox. Michelotti produced a brand new body style, those shells being built at Speke, Liverpool: including wind up windows, and face level ventilation. More space in the cabin and better steering, but no more performance. 40,253 cars built, from 1961 to 1965.

A straightforward evolution of the TR4, the TR4A had a completely new all independent chassis frame under the same basic body shell. Coil springs / semi trailing arms at the rear made this the softest-riding TR so far. All cars had 104bhp/2138cc. As with the TR3B, North American dealers demanded a cheaper alternative. Only for that continent there was a live rear axle version of the new chassis frame; not please note the old TR4 frame. 28,465 cars built from 1965 to 1967.

The TR4/4A had a steel 'Surrey Top' option similar to but earlier than the 'targa' design by Porsche. They had either a cloth, Aluminium or steel upper lid. Both the 4 and 4A also had full steel or fibreglass hard tops as options.

FACTS & FIGURES

Manufactured

August 1961 to January 1965

Production Figures

Produced for the Home Market - 2592
Produced for the Export Market - 37661
Total - 40253

Basic Price

£750 Plus Purchase Tax

Optional Extras

Wire Wheels, surrey hard top, seat Belts, heater, overdrive, 1991cc engine available (as TR3A) - few opted for this.

Engine Details

4 Cylinder 86mm x 92mm 2138cc, wet liner engine
Producing 100 bhp at 4600 rpm
Max torque - 127lbs/ft at 3350 rpm
Twin 1¾" SU Carbs - later with Zenith Stromberg 175 CD Carbs

Suspension Details

Front: Independent by unequal length double wishbones, coil springs and telescopic dampers.
Rack and pinion steering

Rear: Live axle, half elliptic springs and lever arm dampers

Wheels: Pressed steel disc with 5.50 x 15 tyres