"Step into a world of driving pleasure!” That is the first piece of advice Maurice gives us, as he tells us in his own words about the formidable past of this Triumph MayflowerIt was a small luxury family car built from 1949 to 1953 by the British Standard Motor Company, and sold by its subsidiary Triumph Motor Company. The nameplate states: Mayflower type 1200 T, manufactured in Coventry. The grand introduction took place at the British International Motor Show in 1949, with first deliveries following in 1950.
Beautiful design
De Triumph Mayflower had the traditional 'razor edge' style, a kind of imitation of the design that was also used at the time by brands such as Bentley and Rolls-Royce. The advantage of this upright style was that, despite the compact size of the car, four people could still sit comfortably. It is a testament to human ingenuity that so much space could be created in such a small body. This impressive appearance will not elicit cries of recognition from many, but it will amaze them about the beautiful condition in which the car is.
The Story Behind the Mayflower
Stories behind a classic car are always fascinating, exciting and special. The Triumph Mayflower left its first tire tracks in England and was brought to the Netherlands decades ago. There it spent years in a barn, waiting for what the future would bring.
Historical and technical data
- Production years: 1949 – 1953, with a total of approximately 34.990 units built.
- Factory: Standard Motor Company in Coventry, United Kingdom.
- Motor: A 1247 cc (1,2-litre) four-cylinder side-valve engine, based on the Standard 10 engine. This produced around 38 hp, enough for a top speed of around 97 km/h (60 mph).
- Gear box: Manual 3-speed transmission (often with steering column shifting).
- Chassis and suspension: The car had a separate chassis, an independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle.
- Target audience: From Triumph The Mayflower was intended as a compact, yet chic and luxurious car for the middle class and was also introduced (with less success) on the American market.
The name Mayflower refers to the ship on which the Pilgrims left for the New World in 1620. Triumph wanted to radiate a certain pride and tradition with this name.
Restoration
The definition of restoration is:
“To return the car to new condition as far as possible!”
That is with this Triumph Mayflower clearly succeeded. It is truly dazzlingly beautiful. Everyone knows that restoration costs are often higher than the final market value, but the emotional value of ownership is priceless. The feeling of restoring and owning an old car is often more important than purely the financial picture. It is not always about the marbles... but about the game.
Nut and Bolt
The car has undergone a complete restoration. The two-tone paint color - green with white - gives this Triumph Mayflower a typical 50s look, without compromising on the chic look. The interior has been completely renovated, with the wooden parts restored by hand. In addition, the engine has been overhauled and the gearbox overhauled; a technical feat in which even the electrical installation was custom-made. The result is a stylish English classic to enjoy.
Mauritius:
“Achieving something, accomplishing something, passing on history, gives a feeling of pride.
A wonderful challenge to restore the car to its former glory.
Now that the car is finished, it becomes clear that thousands of hours have been spent on it,
and yet I am happy and satisfied when he appears on the road again.”
All it needs is you behind the wheel.
Maurice's enthusiasm is untamed, because there is already a new love ready for a second life. That is why this Triumph Mayflower offered for sale in Geertruidenberg.
Longing for nostalgia
Mauritius:
“There is a continuing interest in special and unique historical classics and oldtimers. Enthusiasts are passionate and very involved in the rolling heritage. It is a wonderful hobby and even more: there is nothing wrong with it! I would like to tell the stories and not be modest, on the contrary: be proud. You have to show the beauty and elegance! Especially this Triumph Mayflower leaves jaws dropping
of amazement and wonder. A car hobby is also part of the fun you can have in life.”
With its unique 'razor edge' design, compact yet comfortable interior and rich British heritage, the Triumph Mayflower a classic that will continue to fascinate enthusiasts of all ages. A real jewel on wheels that invites nostalgia, driving pleasure and admiration.
(The story continues below with the photos.)
Fantastic!
Funny, the first car in my life that I ever had on the wall in a photo (A4) was a Mayflower. A green one. I was about 10 years old then.
Beautiful! I have not seen something like this very often. Looks great and so beautifully restored. A Rolls in miniature!
What a sweetheart!
Looks a bit like a baby Rolls Royce silver cloud or a baby Vandenplas.