1970' Triumph Herald

Anyone reading this will not need me to tell them that the current classic car marketplace is - and has been for a good few years now - spiralling through the roof. Prices of most makes and models are at least twice what they were not too long ago and, in many cases, they have trebled.

What a pleasant change it is then to come across a genuine bargain classic in the form of the iconic Triumph Herald. This is one of the last 1200s. They produced the 1200 alongside the 13/60 for a couple of years until 1970, although I have always thought that the earlier 1200 was the better looking example. Original designs tend to be, don't you think?

Anyway, here she is. Valencia Blue with tan interior she comes with a fresh MoT (no advisories) and is an excellent little runaround. Heralds have always been super fun and they remain a highly useable classic. She will make an admirable family pet and, in my opinion, she is presentable enough and well worth what I am asking. An ideal opportunity to acquire a "starter classic" at what I consider to be a bargain price. Just jump in and drive. I would say that the top half is original paint and that the bottom half, below the chrome, has seen paint. It has a slightly fresher look. She goes really well and I have just been bombing along at 60 mph quite happily. There is some clutch noise - I think that's what it is and it vanishes when you dip the clutch - but you are not aware of it all once you are in top gear. So, what we have is this: Perfectly useable, a full MoT with no advisories and therefore chassis and outriggers are OK, decent interior, very good floor pans and cheap. Basically being sold at a price that would normally buy you something needing restoration. Don't expect a 4k car for the money. Twice the value would mean twice the car. But then I feel a little sorry for it. It deserves a loving home, you can drive around in it with a smile on your face and, remember, not every classic out there has to be a trailer queen.

As with all my classic cars, I regard them as the equivalent of motoring antiques. Even the very best available cannot be perfect. Since the motor car was invented, vehicles have ceased to be perfect once they leave the dealer's showroom. I do not like concourse classics, and have little time for those who take them to shows on trailers, clean the tyre treads with a toothbrush and then sit po-faced at the front of their vehicle all day. Classic cars are to be loved, enjoyed, driven, improved, repaired, tinkered with and hopefully pampered. Even the best will show some signs of wear and tear commensurate with their age. Do not expect a 50-year-old car to be in the same condition as your wife's 6-month old Range Rover. Although I suppose some could actually be in a superior condition come to think of it (sorry, joke!). I love my Georgian dining table, despite all its centuries of repair work. If had wanted a new table then maybe I should have gone to Oak Furniture Land!


I accept all major debit/credit cards and a ten per cent deposit is required at the point of sale with the balance due within three days. I can also assist with delivery and so please ask for a quote. Thanks, Martin (07595 020282).