1963 Triumph Vitesse 6 1600 Convertible

5965 PJ was first registered on the 21st of March 1963 and spent the first 35 years with the same family in Scotland. This very early example came into the hands of Chic Doig, a well-known Triumph restoration firm in Fife in 2005 wearing just 46, 000 miles on the odometer – very likely the mileage from new. This factory convertible example was added to Mr Doig’s personal collection having arrived to him in very original condition from being exceptionally preserved by the family.

A lot of the car’s known history is documented in a 4-page feature in the Triumph World Magazine where it was noted as possibly the earliest surviving factory convertible. In more recent history, the Triumph has received a full outer respray bringing the exterior to a lovely standard in 2014. Whilst it has been a number of years since the paintwork, the panels present with a nice finish, and the interior looks completely original with a lovely, aged feel. As it arrives to us, the Triumph has just 48900 miles on the odometer, a lovely presentation and a photographic record of the paintwork.

In the heart of the Triumph is a 1596cc straight-6 engine that was adopted from the Standard Vanguard though with a smaller bore diameter. Fueling the power plant is twin Solex semi downdraught B321H Carburettors allowing the car to accelerate briskly up to the speed limit. Through the 4-speed transmission, the Vitesse feels lovely through the gears with a sensible RPM at the national speed limit.

Overall, the 5965 PJ is a delightful motor car with a great drive, and very low mileage, ready to be enjoyed on high days and holidays.