Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible
The Triumph Vitesse, produced from 1962 to 1971, was the sporting flagship of the Herald family. Taking the Herald's distinctive Michelotti-designed body and separate chassis, Standard-Triumph installed the smooth 1.6-litre (later 2.0-litre) straight-six engine from the Triumph 2000 saloon, creating a compact sports saloon with genuine performance credentials.
The Vitesse was distinguished from the Herald by its distinctive six-headlamp front end (with four in a horizontal row in the grille and two outboard), a bonnet bulge to accommodate the longer engine, and Vitesse badging. Both saloon and convertible body styles were offered, with the convertible being the more desirable variant today.
The original 1600 Vitesse of 1962 used a 1,596cc straight-six producing 70 bhp, which was sufficient for brisk performance in the lightweight Herald shell. The Mk2 Vitesse, introduced in 1966, enlarged the engine to 1,998cc and raised output to 95 bhp with twin Stromberg carburetors. More significantly, the Mk2 addressed the original car's notorious rear-end handling by replacing the swing axle rear suspension with a revised 'low-pivot' design that dramatically improved stability.
The original swing axle rear suspension was the Vitesse's Achilles heel. Under hard cornering, the rear wheels would tuck under dramatically, leading to sudden and unpredictable oversteer that caught out many drivers. The Mk2's revised rear suspension largely cured this trait, making the car far safer and more predictable at the limit.
The Vitesse was a popular choice with club racers, who appreciated the separate chassis construction (which allowed easy repair after racing incidents), the relatively powerful engine, and the excellent front disc/rear drum braking system. The lightweight construction and sweet-revving six-cylinder engine made the Vitesse a competitive and entertaining track day car.
One of the Vitesse's most charming characteristics, shared with the Herald, was its extraordinarily tight turning circle of just 7.6 metres. The front wheels could turn to full lock at nearly 90 degrees, allowing the car to perform manoeuvres that would be impossible in other vehicles. This made the Vitesse a delight to drive in urban environments.
Total production across all variants amounted to approximately 51,000 units. The Mk2 Convertible is the most sought-after version today, combining the improved handling with the pleasure of open-air motoring.
Chassis condition is the priority — the separate backbone chassis can corrode badly. Check all outriggers, spring mounts, and the cruciform junction. The body is bolt-on and panels are available, but extensive structural rot in the chassis is expensive to repair. The straight-six engine is smooth and reliable but check for oil leaks, overheating, and worn camshaft. Verify which mark the car is — the Mk2 is significantly better to drive thanks to the revised rear suspension. Convertible hood frame and fabric condition should be assessed. Overdrive (if fitted) should engage and disengage smoothly. Interior trim is basic and wears — check condition of seats and dashboard. Parts availability is excellent through the Triumph Sports Six Club. The Mk2 Convertible is the most desirable variant.
Produced 1962-1971 at Canley, Coventry. Based on Herald platform with six-cylinder engine. Mk1 (1962-1966) with 1.6L engine and swing axle rear. Mk2 (1966-1971) with 2.0L engine and improved rear suspension. Available as saloon and convertible. Approximately 51,212 total production.