The Triumph 20TS was a prototype sports car shown by Standard-Triumph in October 1952 at the London Motor Show. Extensive development of the 20TS led to the introduction of the Triumph TR2 in March 1953 at the Geneva Motor Show, after which the 20TS was unofficially referred to as the Triumph TR1. Only one example of this car was ever made by Triumph. The 20TS was built using existing components, with its engine from the Standard Vanguard, suspension from the Triumph Mayflower and a chassis from the Standard 8 hp, based on the pre-war Standard Flying Nine. The body was designed to be... built economically, with no panels requiring double-action presswork. Economy of design was considered vital, as the company did not expect high sales figures and had targeted a price of £500 before sales tax. The rear of the car was short and curved and had the spare tyre bolted to it. "Frankly, I think it's the most bloody awful car I've ever driven." – Ken Richardson, BRM test driver, to Sir John Black, chairman of Standard-Triumph. The 20TS was shown to the public in October 1952 at the London Motor Show at Earls Court. Reactions to the 20TS were mixed.
more