Restored or low mileage for a TR3?

[ricky230]

Hi,

We are just looking to buy our first TR3 : there are various models for sale, with wide ranging prices of course. I wondered whether it was more prudent to buy one that had been completely restored in terms of the bodywork and chassis or perhaps go for a low mileage model  that’s been well looked after? I’m not good at DIY! I know low miles and good history doesn’t necessarily mean it’s free from corrosion, and I really don’t want to get involved in bodywork repairs. Thoughts welcome!
 

 

[John McCormack]

On 8/4/2026 at 3:16 AM, ricky230 said:

Hi,

We are just looking to buy our first TR3 : there are various models for sale, with wide ranging prices of course. I wondered whether it was more prudent to buy one that had been completely restored in terms of the bodywork and chassis or perhaps go for a low mileage model  that’s been well looked after? I’m not good at DIY! I know low miles and good history doesn’t necessarily mean it’s free from corrosion, and I really don’t want to get involved in bodywork repairs. Thoughts welcome!
 

 

In view of the fact they are all now at least 65 years old there are very few, if any, genuine low mileage ones left. 

My view is get the best most recently restored one you can find and afford. If you're not too handy at DIY you will benefit from a car that has some modifications like electronic ignition, rack and pinion steering, modern hi torque starter and improved electrics etc.

[Hamish]

Ricky

I would take someone with you who knows the side screen cars. I don’t know where you’re are based but the tr register club will have a local group to you.

is it a dealer car or a private sale .

is there a big history file full or receipts. This is a good thing,it’s not an unreliable car but a careful caring owner keeps these type of records 

lovely shiny cars can still hide some horrors both body and chassis

 a test drive is a must you and the helper

do you mind if they are not original ?

eg the old steering box changed to rack and pinion ?

I would even share link to cars on here, very very unlikely you would get “gazumped”  but you would certainly get an honest opinion.

 

[BlueTR3A-5EKT]

I know of a zero miles fully restored wire wheeled, red TR2 with Girling axle, Lockheed hydraulic drum brakes.  Plus A type overdrive.

For sale in Hampshire

 

Edited August 5 by BlueTR3A-5EKT

[iain]

10 hours ago, Hamish said:

Ricky

I would take someone with you who knows the side screen cars. I don’t know where you’re are based but the tr register club will have a local group to you.

is it a dealer car or a private sale .

is there a big history file full or receipts. This is a good thing,it’s not an unreliable car but a careful caring owner keeps these type of records 

lovely shiny cars can still hide some horrors both body and chassis

 a test drive is a must you and the helper

do you mind if they are not original ?

eg the old steering box changed to rack and pinion ?

I would even share link to cars on here, very very unlikely you would get “gazumped”  but you would certainly get an honest opinion.

 

All very good points from Hamish, I would strongly advise you take a longish term owner with you to evaluate any purchase. There are some very good cars out there, there are also some absolute dogs masquerading as quality cars. ( same for all classics).Caveat emptor.

 

Iain