Triumph TR3 Roadster Rally Car in 1:8 scale – A new project begins!
Welcome to my latest project on the blog! This time I've set myself something very special: a replica of a Triumph TR3 Roadster Rally Car in 1:8 scale. The Triumph TR3 is a true classic of British automotive history and belongs to one of the most impressive collections of English vehicles. With its charming retro design, powerful engine and striking silhouette, this model is a real eye-catcher - perfect for being captured in model making.
This construction report is not only a tribute to the legend itself, but also an invitation for you to accompany me on this exciting journey. I will post regular updates so that you can look over my shoulder at every step. From the detailed interior work to the painting - every part of the project is documented in detail here.
The model is a detailed replica of the original and offers plenty of room for refinements and small special features. I am excited to see how the rally look will work in miniature format and what challenges I will face. I warmly invite anyone who is interested to get inspiration, exchange tips and enjoy the progress together.
Look forward to regular posts and updates in which I will record the construction, the individual construction phases and my thoughts on them. This project will not only be an exciting challenge, but also a wonderful opportunity to share the fascination for British sports cars and the passion for model building.
I hope you enjoy following this unique project and I guarantee that there will be some surprises and highlights in store for the next few weeks. Stay tuned!
The Triumph TR3 was a roadster produced by the British manufacturer Triumph from 1955 to 1962. The TR3 appeared in September 1955. 13,377 units were built by 1957. In the same year, the revised version TR3A came onto the market, with production running until 1962 with 58,236 units. The TR3B was sold in the USA in parallel with the newly released TR4. It had plug-in windows and a more powerful engine with 100 hp. 3,331 units were built.
Today marks the beginning of the first major milestone in the construction of my 1:8 scale Triumph TR3 Rally Car model: the CAD drawings. Before a real component is even created, every detail of the model has to be planned and drawn on the computer. The Triumph TR3 is known for its distinctive shape and characteristic details, and these are precisely what should be perfectly showcased in the model. The CAD design will therefore be crucial in capturing the charm of the original in every aspect.
The aim of the CAD phase is not only to precisely reproduce the shape, but also to plan ahead for later implementation. Several important factors must be taken into account here. Firstly, it is important that the parts can be easily put together in the later construction process. This means that all connections must be precisely planned to ensure that the individual components work together smoothly. Secondly, I want to ensure that all details of the original, from the typical rally features down to the smallest components, can also be realized in the model.
I will keep posting updates to show you the process step by step. It is an exciting challenge to design such an iconic car in digital form and to find the balance between fidelity to the original and model-buildability. I look forward to taking you along on this CAD-supported journey and am curious to hear your thoughts and suggestions!
Stay tuned – the Triumph TR3 Rally Car is slowly taking shape!
Except for a few details, the design is complete. The data is now converted into STL files and checked.
Here is the original TR3 Roadster racing car model:
The car looks black or dark blue, but it is dark green!
This TR2 Coupe will be built parallel to the TR3. It is a very rare "Francorchamps" model.
At first glance the cars are very identical, in reality
The Triumph TR2 Coupé “Franco-Jean” is an extremely rare vehicle with a fascinating history. This model was specially manufactured in Belgium in the former Imperia factory in Nessonvaux. Only 22 units of the TR2 Francorchamps Coupé, a special variant of the Triumph TR2, were built. This version was distinguished by its more luxurious construction and innovative features. Compared to the standard version, for example, it had doors with conventional windows (instead of plastic side windows) and a Plexiglas sunroof, which is considered the forerunner of modern Targa or panoramic roofs.
The coupés were produced for the Belgian market and were distinguished by a more elegant and comfortable style. It is particularly noteworthy that only three examples were made in the so-called "long-door" version, which is now particularly prized by collectors. One such vehicle even found its way to the USA, where it was purchased by the secretary of the Triumph Club.
The TR2 Francorchamps was an evolution of the Triumph TR2 Roadster, already known for its performance and reliability. The coupe version combined these features with a touch of exclusivity and luxurious design, making it a true collector's item.
Production of the components has now started:
UV curing:
Water bath of the transparent parts:
Hard work: All components from our own production are cleaned and painted.
Ready for installation here for the Triumph TR2 Coupe´
Triumph TR3 Roadster
Prepared carpet:
Window stamps and glazing:
After a short break we continue here. The body of the TR3 is now being worked on.
Tomorrow it will be sanded and filled.
The filler was made today and can dry until the weekend:
In the meantime, the prepared carpet is installed:
Here is the finished carpet:
Pre-assembled chassis with functional steering:
On Monday the color "brooklands green" will be painted.
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