There are always plenty of European sports cars lining the streets of Carmel, Indiana during Artomobilia. If British rally cars are your forte, Artomobilia’s John Pitz has an interview you are going to love. This beautiful hunter green 1958 Triumph TR3A Roadster stops most classic enthusiasts in their tracks (including John). Owner, Kenneth reveals his family’s sports car has an Olympic gold medal past as well as a strong Indiana University connection. What is your favorite classic European sports car from the early 60’s? Many gearheads love them, so let us know your top choice in our comments.
Keeping This Triumph in The Family
Kenneth has a lifelong connection to this car because the original owner is a relative. “Uncle Mike drove the wheels off this car for almost 30 years,” he says. When his uncle gives him the car, Kenneth’s family immediately votes to restore it. That’s when the top-to-bottom overhaul begins. Knowing the Triumph brand’s racing history, Kenneth focuses on bringing that aspect out in their family car. However, this TR3A has a different type of racing heritage in its blood.
Once Owned by Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist
What Kenneth casually reveals is that Uncle Mike is also Mike Troy, a two-time gold medalist swimmer at the 1960 Rome Olympics. The former Indiana Hoosier swim phenom decides to celebrate his victories in 1960 by purchasing a Triumph TR3A. After returning to Indiana, Mike enlists and becomes a Navy Seal, earning a silver star in Vietnam (thank you for your service, Mike!). He and his TR3A continue to enjoy life with the top down.
TR3A – World’s Most Successful Rally Car
The Triumph Motor Company produces around 58,000 TR3 roadsters between 1957-1962. The upgraded TR3A has an inline-4 1991cc 2.0L 121.5 cubic-inch engine producing 100 hp. It also has dual SU carburetors, a four-speed manual transmission and removable Plexiglass side curtains. The TR3A is the third best-selling Triumph model behind the TR6 and TR7. It is the first production car to include standard disc brakes. Superior braking gives it an edge in autocross, making the Triumph TR3A one of the world’s most successful rally cars between 1954-1960. Three of these classic rally cars run in and complete the 1960 24 Hours of Le Mans (though not in the winner’s circle).
Pass on the Collecting Bug
Seeing great European sports cars like Kenneth’s TR3A is one of the treats of attending Artomobilia. Young classic enthusiasts may have only seen cars like this online or in a magazine. It is essential for us in the collector car community to bring cars like this out of garages and into the light. Someone might catch the bug and start collecting British rally cars. We certainly hope so. Tally Ho, everyone!
2018 Artomobilia Weekend
The Carmel Artomobilia has expanded to a glorious weekend event! Artomobilia Weekend returns to Carmel, Indiana Friday, August 24 thru Sunday, August 26. It now features three unique days of classic and collector car activities: the Fuelicious charity event, the Carmel Artomobilia car show and Shift, a new interactive driving experience.
Collector and Classic Car Insurance for Less
Whether you collect British sports racers or American muscle cars, keep your classic collection safe. Before you head to your next event, protect your investment by having the right kind of insurance coverage. Let Classic Auto Insurance customize a policy to fit your needs. We offer affordable, Agreed Value coverage for a variety of collector, classic and custom vehicles. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff can answer your questions and give you a quote on the spot. Visit our website at www.classicins.com or call 888-901-1338 and see how we can help safeguard your dream car.
