Triumph - Triumph Vitesse
The Triumph Vitesse was built from 1962 using the Triumph 6 cylinder 1596cc engine, but now considerably tuned. Based around the Triumph Herald, Michelotti used as much as he could of existing panel work on a new front body portion. The car was light and the 2 litre engine gave sports car performance in a 4 seater car, so it sold well. For 1966 the Vitesse was fitted with the upgraded 2 litre engine introduced in 1966 was rebranded the Triumph Vitesse 2 litre, with other upgrades such as larger brakes and stronger wheels. For 1969 the Vitesse Mk2 was introduced, which had a revised rear suspension reducing the excessive camber change which must have got earlier cars owners into trouble! And there were also further engine developments which made for great performance. The Triumph Vitesse stayed in production until midway through 1971.
Triumph Vitesse tyre size was 5.60x13 originally. Some say this is equivalent to a 155R13, but if you look at the actual dimensions it is the 165R13 that is the radial equivalent. Blockley make a 165HR13 tyre, as well as a wider version of the 155R13 tyre which is the 175/70R13. Blockley produce both an exceptional period correct high speed rated 165HR13 and the 175/70VR13 tyre size, both sizes perfect for the Triumph Vitesse, at an attractive price. See full details below. Furthermore period tyre lists have the Vitesse 1600 and Vitesse 2 litre with tyre sizes, 5.60x13, 155SR13 and 165SR13, so clearly the tyre manufacturers were covering both the 155 and 165R13 sizes! We would recommend either 165R13 as standard, or if wanting a wider looking tyre we have seen listed in tyre lists for the Vitesse the 175/70R13 size. See full details of both these excellent speed rated period correct looking 165HR13 and 175/70VR13 Triumph Vitesse tyres below:
