The Triumph TR3A, a beloved British sports car from the 1950s and 1960s, has captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. This iconic roadster's rich history, unique features, and the captivating story of one particular 1958 model owned by the Balderston family in Pleasant Hill, California, make for a fascinating exploration of automotive passion and restoration.

Uncovering the Triumph TR3A's Enduring Appeal

The Triumph Legacy: From Bicycles to Sports Cars

The Triumph brand's origins can be traced back to 1885, when it began as a bicycle manufacturer. The company's foray into the automotive industry came in 1923 with the introduction of its first car model. Over the years, Triumph established itself as a prominent producer of sports cars, with the TR3 series being one of its most iconic offerings.

The TR3A: Refined and Improved

The TR3A, produced from 1957 to 1962, was an upgraded version of the earlier TR3 model. It boasted a more powerful engine, better brakes, and a host of other refinements that made it a more capable and desirable sports car. With its distinctive grille, exterior door handles, and standard front disc brakes, the TR3A became the most popular of the TR series, with over 58,000 units sold.

A Family Affair: The Balderston's Triumph TR3A

The featured 1958 Triumph TR3A belongs to Doug and Joyce Balderston of Pleasant Hill, California. The car's story is one of family legacy and automotive passion. Doug's father, a physician, originally purchased the sky-blue TR3 in the 1950s, only to sell it a few years later. Years later, he spotted the car rusting away in a yard and decided to buy it back, this time painting it in Denver Broncos orange as a tribute to his favorite football team.

A Puzzle to Solve: Restoring the Triumph TR3A

When the time came for Doug to inherit the car as a college graduation gift in 1966, it required some maintenance and a fresh coat of paint. However, the painter refused to replicate the Denver Broncos orange, leading to a heated discussion. Ultimately, the car was painted in a factory-like red, but the reassembly process proved to be a challenge.

The Triumph's Puzzle: Sourcing Parts and Expertise

The Balderstons enlisted the help of David Sorrell, a skilled mechanic with expertise in Triumph motorcycles, but not necessarily cars. Sourcing the necessary parts for the TR3A proved to be a daunting task, as the car's components were scattered across multiple shops. Sorrell likened the restoration process to solving a puzzle, with parts fitting into a single Ziplock bag. The quality of reproduction parts also posed a challenge, further complicating the restoration journey.

A Work in Progress: Perseverance and Passion

Despite the obstacles, the Balderstons and Sorrell have persevered, investing around $50,000 in the restoration process. The car is now in good shape, both inside and out, and runs well. However, the journey is not yet complete, as the team continues to work on the car, determined to bring it back to its former glory. The Balderstons hope to eventually sell the fully restored TR3A to someone who shares their love for this timeless British sports car.The Triumph TR3A's story is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic automobiles and the dedication of enthusiasts who strive to preserve these automotive treasures. From its humble beginnings as a bicycle manufacturer to its iconic status as a sports car legend, the Triumph brand has left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. The Balderston's 1958 TR3A, with its unique history and ongoing restoration, serves as a shining example of the passion and perseverance that drives the classic car community.