1957 Small-Mouth Triumph TR-3 with Rare Rear Jump Seats, Barn Find

1957 Triumph TR3 Small Mouth Barn Find Roadster Additional Info:

This is a “barn find” 1957 small-mouth Triumph TR3 that needs total restoration. The engine starts easily and runs very well, but the clutch and brakes don’t work (so it cannot be driven.) It has the adjustable steering column and extremely unusual rear seats that are different from the standard single rear seat usually seen in TR3s. It was originally red, but it was painted brown many years ago. The previous owner owned the car for over 45 years, and it comes with its clear transferable 1974 title. It looks like a worthwhile project for someone with the right skills.

MECHANICAL: The engine starts easily, idles and revs smoothly, and has excellent oil pressure. The tank and fuel system have been flushed and it has a new fuel pump. The gearbox (transmission) appears to be in excellent condition and shifts easily into all gears. The clutch and brake hydraulics need restoration. The tires are old but hold air for easy transport loading. The steering and suspension feel good. The odometer reads 63,620 but I do not know if that is correct (it is mileage-exempt because of age.)

ELECTRICAL: This car has a new battery and starter solenoid, the gauges and tachometer are operational, and the generator is working properly. The turn signal system and switch are working nicely. The headlights and high-beams are working. Some of the other lights work but some don’t (probably bulb or ground issues.)

BODY / FLOORS / ROCKERS: This TR3 has various dents and dings, but I don’t think it was ever in a serious accident. The nose, front fenders, hood, trunk, rear fenders, and front door gaps are aligned well. This car has significant rust as shown in the pictures. It needs new rockers, floors, sills, and trunk floor as well as other rust repair. There are wood floors sitting on top of the rusted original floors. The rear door gaps are misaligned due to the rust in the floors and rockers.

INTERIOR / TOP / SIDE CURTAINS: The interior needs restoration. The dash appears to be correct and original. This early TR3 has unusual rear seats (I have never seen seats like these.) I’m not sure if they are original but they look very old and designed specifically for the TR3. It also comes with side curtains that need restoration. Please feel free to contact me if you have any information about these rear seats!

TITLE TRANSFER AND PAPERWORK: I am a long-time classic car hobbyist and a licensed Florida car dealer (Classic Investment Motorcars Inc.) This means that you must complete the required sales and title transfer forms with me, which can be done in person, via email, or through the mail. The car cannot be released until I have received all completed paperwork and payment in full.

DOCUMENTATION FEE: A flat fee of $100 is charged on all vehicle purchases to help cover postage, paperwork, vehicle preparation, and other costs. Please understand that this fee cannot be waived. This fee applies regardless of whether you are an individual or a dealer.

SALES TAX: If the vehicle is shipped out of Florida by common carrier or freight forwarder I will not collect sales tax (you will take care of that where you live.) If you live in Florida, or pick up the car in Florida, then I am required to collect applicable sales tax and tag/title fees. If you live in another state and pick up the car here, most states will give you credit for the sales tax I collect (in this case the sales tax rate will be the lesser of 6% or the rate that applies to you in your state.) Please feel free to contact me before bidding to find out how the tax rules will apply for your individual state.

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT: A $500 non-refundable PayPal deposit is due within 24 hours of the end of the listing. The balance must be paid by cash, cashier’s check, or wire transfer within seven days. All cashier’s checks must fully clear before the vehicle can be released. If it is not paid in accordance with these requirements, I may, at my option, make second-chance offers or re-list/remarket the vehicle and the deposit will be forfeited by the buyer.

SHIPPING: Arranging and paying for shipping is the responsibility of the buyer. We are happy to cooperate with any shipping company you choose, domestic or international. We may also be able to help you arrange shipping at a good price, but the responsibility will remain with you.

THIS VEHICLE IS BEING SOLD AS-IS, WHERE-IS, WITH NO WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. Please feel free to come inspect the car in person or to have it inspected by a third-party inspection service. Cars are shown by appointment only, but we are available most days. Please note that if you are the winning buyer you will have entered into a binding contract to complete the purchase in accordance with eBay rules. The sale location is Bell, Florida, Florida law governs, and venue lies exclusively in Gilchrist County, Florida.

Please feel free to call me at 352-283-0268 or email me through eBay if you would like additional information.