TR4/4A TR4A project; restore or sell?

[Steve P.]

Although I'm mostly into Austin-Healeys and MG's, a few
years ago I picked up a TR4A project car. I've always
liked the looks of the TR4's & TR6's, but have never
owned or even driven one. This car is very straight
with no rust damage, but the engine will need to be
rebuilt (spun bearings). The interior is comlete but
shot. Some body work and of course, paint and a new
top. I've restored Britmobiles before and am aware of
the time and $$$'s involved.

Folks here are more familiar with TR4A's, and I'd like
to hear your opinions. Right now I'm leaning toward selling
the TR4A (maybe $4K?) and looking for an MGA project.
Steve

 

[HerronScott]

I may be somewhat biased, but I say keep the TR4A and restore it!

I think it's fills niche in your collection between the MG's and the Austin-Healeys. Unless you really have a preference for an earlier side-curtain model.

Scott

 

[tdskip]

Hi Steve - the MGA and TR4A will be completely different drives. The TR4A will feel bigger and more gruff, the MGA smaller and more "delicate". Both are worth having of course. If I had to pick one I'd take the TR4A (and I say that having an MGA), but it really depends on what sort of driving experience you are looking for.

Restoring them won't be much different, all the bits are available for both and everything is pretty reasonably priced (some may debate that).

Finding a good MGA project for similar money will be a bit harder for the same money, although they occasionally come up.

Let us know what you decide to do.

 

[luke44]

Hi Steve - I always thought a person was either a TR guy or an MG guy. Maybe I'm dating myself by saying that. When I first read your posting I saw the first line ("I'm an MG guy") and the last line ("i'm looking for an MGA project") as well your past collection, and I figured the answer was right there.....so I was gonna point that out.

But as a TR guy, I would do the TR4. I never understood how anybody could work on an MGA with that soooo small engine comapartment access. No to mention the aspect of "maybe it's time to try something diferent".

Anyway, good luck and let us know how it pans out. No matter what you do they are all neat LBC's.

 

[Steve P.]

Thanks for your comments gents!

The reason I'm considering an MGA is becuase this was
my first car and sent me down the collecting path. I
foolishly gave it away (!!!) decades ago when no
one wanted them. Now it seems they are made of gold, not
rust. ;-)

I realize the chances of finding an unrestored MGA
in anywhere near the condition of my TR4A is unlikely
for a price I'd pay.

I've got no bias for or against Triumphs. From what I've
seen they are similar enough to the cars I have restored
to be virtually the same. Spent the morning looking over
the TR4A, and its in really nice condition. May have
to keep it, and hope to find an MGA from someone like
myself that is willing to store project cars forever.
Steve

 

[HerronScott]

Ah, hard to beat sentimental attachment for wanting to get the MGA. I can certainly understand that! Of course economical realities can override that feeling. I don't think that I'll be getting a 1957 Corvette like my parents had while we were growing up and which they also gave away for nothing in the very early 70's. (3 kids and 2 parents in a 2-seater. Boy were times different!)

I think restoring the TR4A for now assuming you want something to spend money and work on is the best course and keep your eye out for that MGA. You can always sell the TR4A if one comes your way.

Scott

 

[tdskip]

I've got no bias for or against Triumphs. From what I've
seen they are similar enough to the cars I have restored
to be virtually the same.

I'd say so - while every car has it's unique bits/insider tips the TR4A will be very straight forward given your experience. Drop us a note when you are ready to get started or kick-off a new thread entitled "what the heck should I know before I start unbolting stuff" or similar and we'll all pig-pile on it with lessons learn.

This is a great forum BTW if you haven't figured that out in abundance already... :laugh:

 

[AngliaGT]

I'd restore the TR.You could also work out atrade
for an MGA down the road.

- Doug

 

[KVH]

If your first love was an MG, and if you're leaning toward an MG, or feel strongly drawn and have the benefit of familiarity, I'd probably suggest you go that way. You'll be more comfortable, and may do a more superb job keeping and restoring the car.

I keep being drawn to Austin Healeys, but then fall back to what I know, and where my roots are--Triumph.

If you sell that straight, rust free TR4A, the selfish part of me says please try to go locally, maybe to someone on this Board, and don't let it get snagged overseas unless a sale of last resort.

Good luck.

 

[Marvin Gruber]

Steve,

Too bad your so far away. I have a MGA coupe that I would swap you for the TR4. I'm a TR guy but just happen to have a 59 MGA coupe.

Marv

 

[pjsmetana]

... we'll all pig-pile on it...

HAHA! I don't know if I'd put it quite that way, as we usually have a bit more logic than just root'n around

 

[tdskip]

... we'll all pig-pile on it...

HAHA! I don't know if I'd put it quite that way, as we usually have a bit more logic than just root'n around

Speak for yourself, I pig-pile. LOL.