The Triumph TR3 is a genuine British roadster in its purest form: allure of an unpretentious superstar, charisma, and charm. Three aspects that are true to Triumph's craftsmanship. As the successor to the already gorgeous TR2, the TR3 was produced in two versions from 1955 to 1962. The performance-oriented power of the TR3 brought competition and rivalry to the Mercedes-Benz's 190SL, the Morgan Plus Four, and the Porsche 356, to name just three. Once the TR3 made its mark, there was no doubt: this British beast would capture hearts worldwide.
Rather than being a completely discontinuous new car, the TR3 was an evolution of the TR2. A completely new concept was not necessary, as the fact that we still know them under the famous label of ‘British roadster’ says enough. The TR3 brought better brakes simply because it delivered more power compared to its predecessor. By enlarging the carburettor, Triumph managed to make the TR3 ten percent more powerful. On the other hand, the front drum brakes were replaced with disc brakes, which had never been done on a British car.
As mentioned, the TR3 came in two versions, albeit informally. The first TR3 was introduced in 1955, aptly named ‘TR3a’. In 1962, the TR4 was internally announced being the successor. However, Triumph’s dealers were not ready for it. Triumph decided to initiate a transitional period by bringing a so-called ‘TR3b’. The TR3b offered more power and could be considered somewhat more modern. Just over 3,000 units were produced. The distinction between the TR3a and TR3b remained unofficial and almost nominal; in other words, it was never officially recognized by Triumph, but the market accepted the distinction.
Triumph TR3b
The Triumph TR3b is the unofficial name for the second generation - if we may - of the TR3. It was only produced in 1962 as a response to Triumph dealers not being ready for the arrival of the TR3’s true successor, the TR4. The TR3b can be rightfully considered the transitional variant of the TR3, and that is even a compliment, as they are rare.
The ‘b’ TR3 came with a larger 2138 cc engine instead of 2088 cc, and the gearbox was now fully synchronized and offered an overdrive gear.
The TR3b is a coveted classic car, only approx. 3,000 units were ever produced. In contrast, approximately 75,000 units of the TR3a were built, which is significantly more.
Technical information:
Body work
Mechanics