Cars

The Triumph Roadster TR2000 is an iconic car produced by British manufacturer Standard-Triumph in the late 1940s, specifically between 1948 and 1949. It followed on from the Triumph Roadster 1800, retaining its overall look while offering a more powerful engine and a number of mechanical and aesthetic improvements.

After the Second World War, Triumph, which had been bought by the Standard Motor Company in 1944 after going bankrupt, was looking to relaunch its car production with stylish vehicles that would appeal to both the British market and export markets, particularly the United States. The Triumph Roadster 1800 was launched in 1946 as a two-seater convertible with two additional rear seats accessible via a boot that opened towards the rear. This unusual configuration, with ‘dickey seats’ (rear seats), was a nod to the bodywork of the interwar period.

In 1948, the Triumph Roadster 2000 (often referred to as the TR2000) replaced the 1800 version. The main change was the adoption of the 2088 cc Standard Vanguard four-cylinder engine, developing around 68 horsepower. This engine offered slightly better performance, with a top speed of around 130 km/h, while improving reliability and ride comfort. The pressed aluminium body, mounted on a separate chassis, remained largely unchanged, although a few finishing details were revised, notably the radiator grille.

Production of the TR2000 remained limited, with around 2,000 units manufactured before the Roadster range was discontinued in 1949. This model marked the end of an era for Triumph, just before the launch of the TR series (starting with the TR2 in 1953) which would establish the brand’s sporting reputation in the decades that followed. Today, the Triumph Roadster TR2000 is a sought-after collector’s car for its retro style, original lines and rarity.

This example is in very good condition, having been restored about twenty years ago. Its current owner has possessed it for over 37 years. There is no corrosion on either the chassis or the body, and the upholstery is in perfect condition. The mechanics run perfectly.