The 1966 Triumph 2000 represents a particularly interesting chapter in British motoring history, combining understated elegance, innovative engineering and the refinement expected of a quality executive saloon. Introduced in 1963, the Triumph 2000 was designed to appeal to motorists seeking something more sophisticated than the conventional family car, without the expense of a larger luxury marque. With its distinctive Michelotti-designed bodywork, comfortable interior and smooth six-cylinder performance, it quickly established itself as a serious contender in the increasingly competitive executive car market.

Under the bonnet, the Triumph 2000 featured a 1,998cc straight-six engine, delivering smooth, relaxed performance well suited to both town driving and longer journeys. Its independent suspension at all four corners was an advanced feature for a British saloon of the period, contributing to excellent ride comfort and respectable road manners. The combination of responsive handling, refined mechanicals and thoughtful engineering made the Triumph 2000 a particularly appealing alternative to its more traditional British competitors.

Today, the Mk1 Triumph 2000 is increasingly appreciated by classic car enthusiasts for its elegant styling, engineering credentials and unmistakable 1960s British character. While often overshadowed by more sporting Triumph models, these handsome saloons have developed a loyal following among collectors who value originality, practicality and an enjoyable classic driving experience. Surviving examples offer an increasingly nostalgic reminder of an era when British manufacturers were producing distinctive, well-engineered motor cars with character and individuality.

• Engine: 1,998cc Inline 6-Cylinder OHV
• Power: Approx. 90 bhp (67 kW)
• Torque: Approx. 117 lb-ft (159 Nm)
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
• Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive
• Steering: Rack and Pinion
• Front Suspension: Independent with Coil Springs
• Rear Suspension: Independent Rear Suspension
• Brakes: Front Disc / Rear Drum
• Top Speed: Approx. 100 mph (160 km/h)
• 0–60 mph: Approx. 13 seconds
• Fuel System: Twin Stromberg Carburettors
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Body Style: Four-Door Executive Saloon
• Designer: Giovanni Michelotti

There are few cars that capture the spirit of 1960s British motoring quite like the Triumph 2000!

Introduced in 1963, the Triumph 2000 marked an important turning point for the British motor industry. Combining elegant Italian styling by Giovanni Michelotti with a smooth and refined six-cylinder engine, it offered a level of sophistication that challenged considerably more expensive executive saloons of the period. With independent suspension, excellent visibility and a spacious, beautifully proportioned cabin, the Triumph 2000 was a thoroughly modern motor car for its time.

This 1966 NZ New example presents as a wonderfully honest and usable British classic, retaining much of the originality, charm and character that made these cars so highly regarded when new. Having had just seven owners throughout its life, with an impressive 56 years of ownership shared between five of them, it is a motor car that appears to have enjoyed long periods of stable ownership rather than frequently changing hands.

Today, the Triumph 2000 remains one of Britain’s great unsung classics. Its clean body lines, delicate chrome detailing and airy interior are unmistakably 1960s, while the silky six-cylinder engine and comfortable ride make it a particularly enjoyable classic for relaxed touring. Increasingly appreciated by enthusiasts seeking something a little different, these early Mk1 saloons offer a refreshing alternative to the more commonly encountered British classics of the era.

Vehicle Highlights & General Condition

This particular Triumph has plenty going for it, especially for a motor car now celebrating its 60th year. It is not presented as a fully restored or concours example, but rather as an attractive, largely original classic that wears its years with character and offers the opportunity to enjoy genuine 1960s British motoring.

• NZ New – Originally supplied new to the New Zealand market.
• Seven owners from new – Remarkably, five of those owners collectively accounted for 56 years of the car’s history.
• Very tidy original interior – The cabin remains remarkably well presented considering its age, retaining much of its period character and originality.
• Good overall body condition – The body presents well, although the paintwork is showing some fading in places, consistent with age.
• Excellent running characteristics – The six-cylinder engine runs very well, delivering the smooth and relaxed performance for which these Triumphs are renowned.
• Very nice transmission – A particularly pleasing aspect of the driving experience, complementing the engine’s refined nature.
• Good panel operation and fit – The doors, bonnet and boot all open and close properly without requiring excessive force or slamming.
• Clean and tidy boot compartment – A pleasingly well-kept luggage area.
• Rear windscreen rubber seals – These have hardened with age and have seen better days. Worth attending to as part of the car’s ongoing preservation.
• Spare wheel, jack and wheel brace – All included with the vehicle.

Recent Mechanical Attention

Another appealing aspect of this Triumph is the recent mechanical work undertaken by Messrs. John Finlay Motors, British Classic Car Specialists, Christchurch, helping prepare the car for continued enjoyment.

Recent expenditure of approximately NZ$3,900 has included:

• Clutch-related work.
• Brake system work.
• Starter motor attention.
• Replacement fuel hoses.
• Replacement of various age-related perishable components.
• Replacement speedometer cable.

Importantly, the car will also be supplied with:

• A new set of tyres.
• A new battery.

This recent attention represents a worthwhile investment in the car’s mechanical condition and usability, particularly for an older British classic where maintenance and ongoing care are essential parts of ownership.

On the Road

Behind the wheel, the Triumph 2000 demonstrates just why these cars earned such an enviable reputation when new. The smooth straight-six engine provides relaxed and effortless performance, while the independent suspension delivers a comfortable, composed ride that was notably advanced for its time.

This example runs particularly well, and the transmission is a real pleasure to use. The combination makes for an enjoyable driving experience, whether travelling along country roads, attending classic car gatherings or simply heading out for a leisurely Sunday afternoon drive.

There is also something rather special about the view from behind the wheel of an early Triumph 2000. The slim pillars, generous glass area, elegant dashboard and understated British styling create a motoring experience that modern vehicles simply cannot replicate.

It is this blend of mechanical refinement, character and practicality that makes the Triumph 2000 such an appealing classic to own and enjoy.

Market Appeal & Collectability

For many years, the Triumph 2000 lived somewhat in the shadows of its more sporting Triumph stablemates. However, enthusiasts are increasingly recognising the merits of these sophisticated six-cylinder saloons, particularly the earlier Michelotti-styled Mk1 models.

Surviving examples are becoming less commonplace, and finding one that retains a good degree of originality, a tidy interior and a documented pattern of long-term ownership is particularly appealing.

Unlike some classics that are purchased primarily for display, this Triumph 2000 offers the added attraction of genuine usability. It is comfortable, practical, mechanically interesting and sufficiently distinctive to attract attention wherever it goes.

The combination of Italian-influenced styling, British engineering and understated elegance gives these cars a character all of their own. They represent an interesting and increasingly overlooked chapter of British motoring history, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy something refreshingly different without the extravagance or expense often associated with more prestigious marques.

Our Thoughts

There is much to like about this 1966 Triumph 2000, not least its NZ New history, relatively small number of owners, remarkably tidy original interior and pleasing road manners.

We particularly appreciate the honesty of this example. The paintwork has aged in places, and the rear windscreen rubbers would benefit from replacement, but these are readily identifiable areas for future attention rather than matters being disguised by a cosmetic makeover. Its overall presentation reflects that of a genuine older classic that has survived remarkably well.

The recent mechanical expenditure, together with the new tyres and battery being supplied, adds further appeal for someone looking for a classic they can enjoy while continuing to improve and preserve it over time.

For those seeking a distinctive British classic with genuine character, elegant styling and enjoyable six-cylinder performance, this Triumph 2000 represents a compelling opportunity.

Understated, charming and refreshingly different, it is a wonderful reminder of an era when British manufacturers produced motor cars with real individuality and engineering flair.

And perhaps that is the greatest attraction of the Triumph 2000. It doesn’t need to be exotic, extravagant or particularly expensive to be appreciated. It simply needs to be driven and enjoyed for what it is…one of Britain’s most charming and underrated executive saloons.

The appeal of the Triumph 2000 in today’s New Zealand classic car market extends well beyond its mechanical credentials. For many Kiwis, these cars bring back memories of a time when British saloons were a familiar sight on our roads, serving as family transport, company cars and faithful companions on countless summer holidays. There is a wonderful sense of nostalgia attached to them, particularly for those who remember the days when Triumph, Rover, Austin and Morris were part of everyday motoring life. Better still, the Triumph 2000 remains a genuinely fun classic to own, offering the simple pleasures of old-fashioned motoring without taking itself too seriously. It is the sort of car that encourages spontaneous Sunday drives, conversations at petrol stations and smiles from people who haven’t seen one in years.

What makes the Triumph 2000 particularly interesting today is its relative rarity. Once a recognisable presence on New Zealand roads, early Mk1 examples have become an increasingly uncommon sight, with many having disappeared through age, neglect or simply the passage of time. Unlike some of the more fashionable classics commanding substantial premiums, the Triumph remains something of an undiscovered gem, offering individuality, nostalgia and genuine enjoyment without necessarily requiring a substantial investment. For the enthusiast who appreciates a classic that stands apart from the crowd, there is considerable satisfaction in owning something that few others have. And with the passing years, the opportunity to find and enjoy these wonderfully characterful British saloons is unlikely to become any easier.

New Zealand Sales
Unless otherwise stated, vehicles sold for use in New Zealand will be supplied with a new Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and 12 months New Zealand registration at the time of sale.

Transport & Shipping
New Zealand transport and worldwide shipping can be arranged on the Buyer’s behalf and at the Buyer’s cost and risk. Any freight, shipping, insurance, customs charges, duties, taxes, import costs, certification or compliance costs are the responsibility of the Buyer unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Export Sales
For vehicles purchased for export, the Buyer is responsible for determining and satisfying all import, registration, certification, compliance, tax and regulatory requirements applicable in the destination country.

Viewing
All vehicle inspections and viewings are strictly by appointment only.

Applicable Law
All sales are subject to applicable New Zealand law. Nothing in these Conditions of Sale excludes or limits any statutory rights or obligations that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited.

For more information about this vehicle, please contact us Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm (New Zealand Standard Time) on +64 (0) 3 310-6485. Alternatively, you may email us at [email protected] anytime, or contact us through the form below.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.

NOTIFICATION AS TO NATURE OF GOODS IN TERMS OF THE CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 1993

Waimak Group Ltd is a New Zealand registered company and accepts that the vehicle being sold must be of “acceptable quality” in terms of section 7 of the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (the Act) having regard to “the nature of the goods”. Waimak Group Ltd is not aware of any specific defects with the vehicle, however (a) such a vehicle being a classic vehicle may have mechanical breakdowns, electrical failures at inconvenient times and maintenance costs being part of and parcel of ownership of a classic vehicle; (b) reliability is a combination of the particular nature of the classic vehicle, how it is being driven, how it has been maintained, and to a certain extent luck; (c) because of the age of the vehicle, and its propensity to rust, it is likely that the vehicle would have been fully or partially restored, or at least repainted at some point in its life, maybe even more than once. Waimak Group Ltd does not know, and cannot give advice on how good any restoration work on the vehicle had been.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the vehicle is being sold as a classic car; that in terms of the Act and the nature of the goods, the vehicle is an old car, bike or boat, that may have visual and hidden faults, unlike a new motor vehicle.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak Group Ltd.

The Purchaser acknowledges that they have read and fully understand this notification and the nature of a car which is many years old.