1955 | Swallow Doretti

The Swallow Doretti was the only car built by Swallow Coachbuilding Company (1935) Ltd – at the time, a subsidiary of the Tube Investments Group – and was only made between 1954 and 1955. It was intended for export to the U.S. market, to provide a more refined two-seater British sports car than was available there at that time. It is believed only 276 cars were made. 

Based on the Triumph TR2 - using Triumph TR2 mechanicals – the car used Swallow's own design of box-section tube chassis, which provided improved stability, with a wider track and longer wheelbase. The body was double-skinned, having an inner structural skin of steel and an aluminium outer. 

Tested by the The Motor magazine in 1954, the car achieved a top speed of fractionally more than 100 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 12.3 seconds. The Doretti however, was considerably more expensive than its donor Triumph TR2. 

This is a very rare ‘50s British sportscar – well under half the original production number are still believed to exist – of sufficient build quality and performance to have been considered a serious rival for the Jaguar XK120. 

The car was first registered in March 1955 and there is no known or documented history prior to its importation to Guernsey in 1990. The current owner has had the car since 2008 and has simply carried out regular servicing and maintenance - last serviced in February 2020 – to keep the car in a good drivable and presentable condition. 

Whilst the 2 litre Standard Triumph four-cylinder engine is an exchange unit fitted at some point in the car’s earlier past, the vehicle is in a largely standard and original condition, with the only obvious (and worthwhile) modification being the installation of a Kenlowe electric cooling fan. 

It is believed the car was originally finished in maroon. The current black paintwork is in generally very good order, although there is a small dent to the nearside front wing. All brightwork is present and in very good condition, as are the hood, tonneau cover and sidescreens. The tan leather interior is complete and in good, well-patinated condition. A MotoLita steering wheel has been fitted. New chrome wire wheels have been fitted – the original wheels are available with the car. 

This example is in a very good, largely original condition and has been in the hands of a conscientious custodian for the past 15 years. It drives very well, having been routinely serviced and maintained. 

We can assist the buyer with importing into the U.K. and providing a Nova. For reference, the U.K. import duty (VAT) would be 5% (additional).