Buyer’s Guide — Triumph TR4 & TR4A
What to know before buying a Triumph TR4 or TR4A.
Overview
The Triumph TR4 (1961–65) and TR4A (1965–67) were styled by Giovanni Michelotti and represented a significant modernisation of the TR line. The TR4 introduced the Surrey top (a precursor to the Targa roof), wind-up windows, and rack-and-pinion steering. The TR4A added independent rear suspension (IRS) as standard on most markets. Approximately 68,700 TR4s and 28,500 TR4As were built.
What to Look For
| Chassis | Ladder-frame (TR4) or with IRS subframe (TR4A). Check for corrosion at crossmembers, outriggers, and IRS mounting points. The IRS subframe is a particular concern. |
| Body | Steel body — check sills, door bottoms, rear wings, floor pans, and around the windscreen. Replacement panels are available. |
| Engine | 2,138 cc wet-liner four-cylinder. More power than the earlier TR engines. Same liner seal concerns — check for coolant contamination in oil. Good oil pressure essential. |
| IRS (TR4A) | Check trailing arm bushes, differential mounts, and half-shaft universal joints. Worn bushes cause unpredictable handling. The IRS system requires regular maintenance. |
| Front Trunnions | Same as TR2/3 — require regular greasing. Seized trunnions are dangerous. |
| Gearbox | Four-speed with optional overdrive. Overdrive is essential for comfortable cruising. Check all synchros. |
Parts Availability
Excellent — same suppliers as other TRs. Moss Motors, Rimmer Bros, TRF all carry comprehensive stocks.
What a Good One Should Feel Like
More refined than the TR3 but still a proper sports car. The larger engine gives strong performance. The TR4A with IRS handles better on bumpy roads but some purists prefer the solid axle TR4’s more predictable breakaway characteristics. Wind-up windows and the Surrey top make it more practical for daily use.
Price Guide (Approximate, 2026)
| TR4 — Project | $12,000 – $22,000 |
| TR4 — Good Driver | $28,000 – $42,000 |
| TR4A IRS — Good Driver | $32,000 – $48,000 |
| TR4/4A — Excellent | $50,000 – $70,000 |
TR4A IRS models typically command a small premium over solid-axle TR4s. Overdrive adds value.