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1976 Triumph Dolomite Sprint

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£12,950

  • Mileage~49,825 on clock
  • TransmissionManual with O/D
  • Engine2.0L
  • LocationMoffat

SOLD

1976 Triumph Dolomite Sprint

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Introduction

Colin Bashford
Professional Consigner

The Triumph Dolomite Sprint, designed to compete with the likes of the BMW 2002, was launched in June 1973.

Triumph introduced the world to the Dolomite in 1971 at the London Motor Show. It used the body shell from the Triumph 1500 but was equipped with rear-wheel-drive running gear from the Triumph Toledo. When the Dolomite launched in 1972, it was fitted with a ~91 BHP, 1,854cc slant-four engine.

In 1973, Triumph introduced a sportier variant: the Dolomite Sprint. This model featured a more powerful version of the slant-four engine, with an increased capacity of 1,998cc. As a result, power output rose to ~127 BHP. Both the gearbox and differential were upgraded to handle the additional power and torque from the new engine.

This particular car is a 1976 Dolomite Sprint and it comes to market after approximately 1 year and 3 months with our vendor. We understand from Barry, the owner, that the car was laid up back in 1984 and was discovered as a 'barn find' example some thirty years later, after which it subsequently underwent a two-year restoration completed in ~2020. During the restoration the car was stripped down to its bare shell, resprayed, including the underside, and now presents in lovely condition - possibly even better than when it left the factory.

An incredible opportunity to own this stunning example of the Dolomite Sprint.

This listing was written from information supplied by Colin after meeting Barry the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

SELLING MADE EASY

  • We'll take the photos & create the listing.
  • We'll market it to our 72k buyers & online.
  • Live on our site until sold.
  • All this and more for just £399.
   

PEACE OF MIND FOR BUYERS

  • No need to waste time visiting cars.
  • Make purchase decisions right from their sofa.
  • Protects them from fraudsters.
  • Delivery option right to their door.

GET YOUR VALUATION

Exterior

Finished in its original 'Ermine White' with a vinyl roof, this Dolomite Sprint has been restored to an exceptionally high standard.

Wheels and Tyres

The original wheels are in great condition, showing some signs of age but with no major damage noted.

A matching set of Falken tyres, all dated from 2021, has been fitted all around and is in excellent condition, with plenty of tread remaining.

Bodywork

The bodywork on the Dolomite Sprint is in excellent condition, with no noticeable dents or scuffs. All doors, the bonnet, and the boot open and close smoothly, with visually even panel gaps throughout.

We did not observe any visible signs of corrosion on the car - the Dolomite Sprint gleams with its bright 'Ermine White' paint.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The 'Ermine White' paintwork is in great condition across the car, with even coverage and hue, including underside. Being particular, we did notice a couple of small chips on the edge of the driver's door.

The rear section is finished in matt black and being picky, it could do with a re-finish to bring it up to standard with the rest of the car - we think it's an easy weekend improvement for the new owner.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The glass around the car is in excellent condition, with no noticeable chips or cracks in any of the windows.

The chrome trim also looks to be in great shape, with the bumpers and mirrors appearing bright - just the door handles and rear badges show some signs of age.

The vinyl roof is in great condition.

Interior

The interior is very original, with the seats re-trimmed to enhance their authenticity.

Seats and Carpets

The cloth seats have been re-trimmed and are in great condition, showing very little sign of use.

The carpets throughout the car also appear to be in excellent condition, with no major stains noted.

We did observe some stains on the rear roof lining.

Dashboard

The Dolomite Sprint features a wooden veneer dashboard, which is in good condition with no damage observed.

The dials are all clear and legible, showing ~49,825 miles on the odometer during our visit.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The Triumph steering wheel is in great condition, showing very little sign of use.

The gear stick, equipped with an overdrive switch, is also in excellent condition, with all numbers clearly visible.

The O/D switch operates smoothly as well.

Mechanics

With approximately 123 BHP on tap and a raspy exhaust note, the Dolomite Sprint offers an engaging and characterful driving experience.

Engine and Gearbox

The 2.0L engine started after a couple of attempts, initially cutting out on choke but starting again without issue.

On the road with Barry, the engine was slightly juddery when cold but smoothed out once warmed up, running well with no unwanted noises observed. The engine was rebuilt during the restoration process, which included reboring, new pistons, a crank grind, and a rebuilt cylinder head.

The gearbox performed well on the road, engaging gears smoothly without any crunching.

The overdrive also functioned properly with a simple flick of the switch on the gear knob.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension visually appears to be in great condition, with new shock absorbers installed during the restoration.

On the road, the suspension felt excellent, comfortable yet sporty, without any unwanted noises.

Polyurethane bushes have been used in both the suspension and steering.

The brakes felt good as well; while we didn't test them fully, they brought the car to a stop smoothly without any pulling on the steering.

The Drive

During our drive with Barry, the car performed well once it was up to temperature. Fitted with a stainless steel front pipe and tailpipe, the Dolomite Sprint delivers a raspy exhaust tone that adds a sporty feel. The gearbox engaged gears easily, and the overdrive functioned as expected.

The car navigated the twisty forest roads with ease, and the suspension provided comfort without being harsh. Stopping was effortless, with no issues noted.

Electrics and Other

The Dolomite Sprint doesn't have many electrical components like modern cars, but Barry informed us that everything was working as expected.

A period-style DAB radio with USB and AUX connections was installed in 2021, this has since been replaced this with a proper period radio, he still has the modern one though.

History and Paperwork

A beautifully restored example of the Dolomite Sprint, with the underside as clean as the bodywork above.

Coming to market after approximately a year and a quarter with Barry, the car underwent a major restoration shortly before he took ownership. The previous owner provided a detailed account of the ~2-year restoration project, which included a full body respray, even the underside, as well as an engine and gearbox rebuild.

Further work was completed in 2021, including new spark plugs, valve seals, and a vacuum pipe, along with resurfacing the brake discs and installing a period-look modern radio unit, although this been has replaced this with a proper period radio, he still has the modern one though. The Dolomite Sprint is MOT exempt and comes with some invoices for recent work, along with a handful of old MOT certificates - it also includes a couple of magazines, one of which features a photo of the car.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
12.08.2021 Vehicle Check & Various Work 49,010
30.07.2021 MOT 49,001
22.04.2021 Overhaul Starter 48,186
27.03.2021 Master Cylinder 48,073
27.01.2021 MOT 48,015
12.2020 Restoration Competed 43,800
12.01.1984 MOT 43,805
Key Details
  • ModelDolomite Sprint
  • TransmissionManual with Overdrive
  • Reg. Date13.09.1976
  • CC1,998
  • Mileage~49,825 on clock
  • HistoryRecent
  • ColourWhite
  • Interior ColourBlack
  • Interior TrimCloth
  • Chassis #VA21298DL0
  • Engine #VA1379HE
  • RestoredYes
  • Engine RebuildYes
  • MOTNo Expired 29.07.2022
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers7
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~1 year, 3 months
  • Key FeatureRestorated Example
  • Vehicle RegistrationNGL 850R
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body TypeSaloon
  • Auction ID2212