Triumph

Triumph Cars, a distinguished name in British automotive history, began its journey in 1885 as a bicycle manufacturing company founded by Siegfried Bettmann in Coventry, England. Originally named Bettmann & Co., the company was renamed Triumph Cycle Company in 1887. The transition from bicycles to automobiles occurred in the early 20th century when the company, now known as Triumph Motor Company, produced its first car, the Triumph 10/20, in 1923. 

The 1930s marked significant developments for Triumph as it introduced models that established the brand’s reputation for stylish and sporty vehicles. The Triumph Super 7, launched in 1927, became popular for its affordability and reliability. In 1933, Triumph released the Gloria series, which featured advanced engineering and elegant design, setting the tone for the brand’s future direction. The Dolomite, introduced in the late 1930s, showcased Triumph’s commitment to luxury and performance, becoming one of the most iconic pre-war British cars. 

World War II halted car production as the company shifted focus to military manufacturing. Post-war, Triumph faced financial difficulties, leading to the acquisition by Standard Motor Company in 1944. This merger revitalized the brand, paving the way for a new era of innovation and success. The first significant post-war model, the Triumph Roadster, launched in 1946, reflected the brand’s focus on combining performance with style. 

The 1950s and 1960s were golden years for Triumph, marked by the introduction of several iconic models that left an indelible mark on automotive history. The TR series, starting with the TR2 in 1953, became synonymous with British sports cars. The TR3, TR4, TR5, and TR6 models followed, each enhancing Triumph’s reputation for producing high-performance, driver-focused vehicles. The TR4, designed by Italian stylist Giovanni Michelotti, featured modern styling and advanced engineering, making it a significant success.