UK vs UK — 1954 vs 1962
| TR2 Long Door | Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 113 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,991 cc | 1,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.9 sec | 11.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.3 sec | 18.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,896 lbs | 2,072 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,311 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 3,886 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,636 | 51,212 |
| Original MSRP | $2,499 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 5/10 |
The 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. That said, the 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible brings quicker acceleration, better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Triumph heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
The 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door and 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible share a manufacturer in Triumph, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Triumph brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door producing 90 hp and the 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible delivering 95 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR2 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,991 cc, while the Triumph Vitesse relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 Triumph Vitesse 2-Litre Mk2 Convertible edges ahead at 11.9 seconds versus 11.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,636 units built, the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door is considerably scarcer than the Triumph Vitesse's 51,212 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.