Description
The Triumph 10/20, introduced in 1923, was the first production car manufactured by the British Triumph Motor Company. This model marked Triumph’s entry into the automobile market after its success as a motorcycle producer, setting the foundation for the company’s future in car manufacturing. The 10/20 was designed as a small, affordable car intended to compete in the growing market for compact, reliable vehicles in post-war Britain.
The 10/20 was powered by a 1.4-liter (1393 cc) four-cylinder side-valve engine, which produced around 23 horsepower. This output was modest but adequate for a car in its class and time period, providing enough power for city driving and light touring. It was paired with a three-speed manual transmission, a typical setup for early 1920s cars, and featured rear-wheel drive.
The car’s design included a sturdy ladder frame chassis and semi-elliptic leaf springs, which provided a stable ride and dependable handling. Its compact size and relatively light weight contributed to its fuel efficiency and ease of handling, making it a practical option for everyday drivers.
The bodywork of the Triumph 10/20 was simple and functional, available in both two-seater and four-seater configurations. It featured a straightforward design, with a flat radiator grille, round headlamps, and a minimalistic aesthetic that kept manufacturing costs down. Inside, the 10/20 was fitted with basic but comfortable seating, with room for either two or four passengers depending on the chosen body style.
While not produced in large numbers, the Triumph 10/20 was well-regarded for its reliability and solid construction, laying the groundwork for Triumph’s subsequent success in the automobile industry. Today, the 10/20 is a rare and significant collector’s item, valued as a piece of British motoring history and for its role in establishing Triumph as a notable car manufacturer in the years that followed.