Triumph Herald 13/60 Convertible
The Triumph Herald, designed by Giovanni Michelotti and produced from 1959 to 1971, was one of the most elegant small cars of its era. The 13/60 Convertible, produced from 1967, represented the final and most refined development of the Herald line, offering a genuine four-seat convertible at an accessible price.
The 1,296cc engine produced 61 horsepower, modest by modern standards but adequate for a car weighing under 840 kg. The engine was smooth and willing, happily revving to its 5500 rpm ceiling with the characteristic Triumph engine note. The four-speed gearbox was pleasant to use, with light, positive shifts.
Michelotti's design was remarkably stylish for a small family car. The clean lines, bold chrome grille, and well-proportioned body gave the Herald a sophistication that belied its modest price. The convertible body style, with its fully folding fabric top, was one of the most attractive in the Herald range, offering genuine four-seat open-air motoring.
The Herald's most notable technical feature was its independent suspension on all four wheels — unusual for a small car of this era. The front suspension used wishbones and coil springs, while the rear featured a transverse leaf spring with swing axles. This gave the Herald excellent ride comfort and, in normal driving, good handling. The legendary turning circle of 25 feet (7.6 metres) was a unique selling point.
The separate chassis construction, while adding weight, made the Herald remarkably versatile. The entire front end could be tilted forward for engine access — a maintenance dream — and the body panels could be easily replaced in the event of accident damage. This construction also made rust less structurally critical than in monocoque designs.
The Herald family contributed significantly to the Triumph sports car program. The Herald's engine, suspension components, and other mechanical elements were shared with and developed for the Spitfire sports car. This parts-sharing helped Triumph offer competitive sports cars at affordable prices.
Over 500,000 Heralds were produced across all variants during the model's twelve-year production run, making it one of Triumph's most successful models. Today, the 13/60 Convertible is appreciated as an affordable and charming classic that offers open-air motoring with the practicality of four seats.
The separate chassis can rust but is repairable; check outriggers and crossmembers. Body panels bolt on and are available from specialists. The rear swing-axle suspension can cause unpredictable handling at the limit; check for worn bushes and springs. The engine is simple and parts are widely available. Check for chassis frame distortion from accident damage. The convertible top frame can rust; check condition of the mechanism. The Herald community is active and supportive, with excellent parts availability.
The Herald range was produced at Canley, Coventry from 1959 to 1971. Total production across all variants exceeded 500,000 units. The 13/60 designation indicated the 1296cc engine and 60bhp (later 61bhp) output. Convertible, saloon, coupe, and estate body styles were offered. The Herald platform was also used for the Triumph Vitesse and Spitfire.