IDRIVEACLASSIC reviews: Triumph Dolomite Sprint

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  • Опубликовано: 9 фев 2025
  • Today's video is on the fantastic, range leader for Triumph; the Triumph Dolomite Sprint
    IDRIVEACLASSIC is sponsored and insured by Adrian Flux - check them out for your insurance quote on the link below: www.adrianflux...
    ____
    We’ve tried out the 1300 front wheel drive, the 1500 and the Toledo so it meant we just had to try out a Dolomite and when I got offered one of the oldest Dolomite Sprints in existence, it just had to happen.
    The Dolomite was made from 1972 to late summer of 1980 and over 200,000 were made in total. Again, it was a Michelotti for Triumph design, so looks very similar to the cars which went before it.
    The Dolomite really came about after thoughtful consideration to where the 1300 and 1500 had lacked and is a pleasing car. Unlike the 1300 fwd, the Dolomite is RWD and moves on from simply replacing the Herald or being a good upgrade to a decent car in its own right.
    It does however borrow from other models and has that facelifted 1500 body shell and a lot of the running gear off the Toledo, but actually packs far more into the car in the way of controls and extras - which we’ll discuss later.
    The Dolomite, not Dolomite Sprint uses the 1854cc engine, which is a big step up from the 1500 used as the biggest engine option in the Toledo and went up against cars like the BMW 2002 and as standard, came with a lot of interesting kit including the twin headlamps, the battery powered clock, the luxury seats which are 3 to 4 inches wider than the predecessors and stuff we take for granted nowadays like cigar lighter and heated screen.
    Now this standard 1854cc engine was giving results of a top speed of over 100mph and zero to 60 in less than 12 seconds but Triumph wanted to take it further to really flush out the competition and give buyers a car with wow appeal.
    And with that, the Dolomite Sprint came to market.
    The Sprint was simply an upgrade, it came with real movement in terms of tech. It was the regular production British car to use the 16 valve cylinder head and the engine was taken up to 1998cc with optional overdrive and a Stag style gearbox.
    In short, it took it miles away from its 1300 FWD roots. This was a car which delivered, in an era where many cars were falling woefully short.
    The top speed was now a respectable 112mph with 0 to 60 in under 9 seconds. Cost was around an extra £400 and the stiffened suspension, which I do actually criticise quite a lot on test, was a new addition alongside expensive looking alloy wheels and a very fashionable vinyl roof.
    I should also probably mention that tinted glass, a feature only used on the Dolomite Sprint.
    The strangest thing about these Dolomite Sprints and Dolomites is that everyone knows what they are, they are instantly recognisable yet less than 22 thousand were made of the Sprint and less than 80 thousand were made of the Dolomite 1850.
    The Dolomite Sprint was also one of the last Triumphs to be built at Canley alongside the Spitfire and deserved far greater sales numbers than it achieved, because as you’ll see on the test and look around today, the Sprint is a car which deserves all the praise. But first, lets speak to Mark, who has owned this car for an awfully long time.

Комментарии •

  • @lesliereed4047
    @lesliereed4047 3 года назад +122

    This was easily the best looking compact saloon from anywhere in the 70's.

    • @idriveaclassic
      @idriveaclassic  3 года назад +5

      Agreed.

    • @kylereese4822
      @kylereese4822 3 года назад +2

      If I could find a rotten one I'd do a full restore and do a Tesla small motor in the rear swap, home brew battery pack and a few other bits... but keep it looking as standard as possible on the out side :):)

    • @dazspurs9899
      @dazspurs9899 3 года назад +5

      stag for me

    • @timonsolus
      @timonsolus 3 года назад +3

      @@dazspurs9899 : Or as Jeremy Clarkson calls it, the Staaaaaaaag.

    • @ericgeorge5483
      @ericgeorge5483 3 года назад

      @@kylereese4822 If yopu can, go for it and would love to see the result on youtube.

  • @benjamintocchi7909
    @benjamintocchi7909 3 года назад +20

    Only recently learned about the Dolomite (I live in the US), but I absolutely can not get over the lines of the car. There is still something about the clean lines and the standard 3 box design which still looks sharp today!

    • @grahamthomas4804
      @grahamthomas4804 2 года назад +1

      try driving one you will love it. sure handles comfortable and quick.

  • @CycolacFan
    @CycolacFan 3 года назад +47

    It’s criminal these cars didn’t get to develop through the next few decades, imagine having a Triumph today that could rival Audi and BMW, a Triumph version of the M3. The Spring and the Stag should have been world beaters.

    • @63Baggies
      @63Baggies 3 года назад +6

      Don't even get me started about the british car industry; we really shot ourselves in the foot courtesy of lazy workers, unionised sloppy quality control, apathy, very little government support and unimaginative management. Ii'm very very Rule Brittania about my metalwork and would have a Trumph Daytona 600, Jaguar XJR Supercharged and a Rover 3.5 Coupe as my personal stable.

    • @Typsicory
      @Typsicory 3 года назад +4

      Some actually say that the uk car industry at that time was sabotaged! I was only a kid in the 1970s. So, can’t really expand on that! But, my dad actually owned one of these in this yellow! Went like the wind! Anyway, he was convinced with this theory! Said Red Robbo was specifically sent in to carry out this exercise!

    • @honeymonster5589
      @honeymonster5589 2 года назад

      @@Typsicory many a true word spoken in jest,you could be right sabotage,my grandad had one of these,please fasten your seatbelts

    • @rcaive0875
      @rcaive0875 11 месяцев назад

      Ironically, if the Triumph brand still existed today, it would most likely be under the ownership of the Germans or Chinese.

  • @visionsofhere3745
    @visionsofhere3745 3 года назад +34

    Love the way Dollys always look like they're seriously moving, even when parked.

    • @63Baggies
      @63Baggies 3 года назад +2

      ...so beautifully appointed inside too..very comfortable...

  • @mattw8332
    @mattw8332 3 года назад +43

    Stunnng Sprint in a fantastic colour! It is such a shame that the Triumph marque never survived.

    • @peterjf7723
      @peterjf7723 3 года назад +1

      Triumph Motorcycles still exists.

    • @johndrake2729
      @johndrake2729 3 года назад +1

      @@peterjf7723 Different company.

    • @peterjf7723
      @peterjf7723 3 года назад +2

      @@johndrake2729 Ah, I was confused by them both being called Triumph.
      I checked and they were the same company until 1939 when they split.
      The Triumph marque for cars is currently owned by BMW.

    • @paullacey2999
      @paullacey2999 3 года назад +3

      Ironically BMW owns the rights to Triumph cars....

    • @peterjf7723
      @peterjf7723 3 года назад +3

      @@paullacey2999 Interestingly Triumph was founded in the UK in the 1880s by a German immigrant, Siegfried Bettmann.

  • @davidevans4089
    @davidevans4089 3 года назад +31

    I had two of these in the eighties. One of the best cars I have owned would love to have another when I win the lottery. Well done Steph.

    • @mr_benn_escapes_lockdown1780
      @mr_benn_escapes_lockdown1780 3 года назад +2

      I had five! One was my first car at 17, LGL 396P bless its little head gasket. Gave away loads of parts when I moved jobs/home including a mint 22k miles engine & gearbox and genuine Triumph/BL workshop manuals. Kick myself now when I look at prices...

  • @stepheng8779
    @stepheng8779 3 года назад +19

    Oh that's a thing of beauty. Love a Triumph anyway but the colour really sets this off, wow 😍

  • @michaelhalsall5684
    @michaelhalsall5684 3 года назад +10

    The Triumph Dolomite was one of my dream cars way back when. I still love the look of them, they still look attractive today!

  • @bluetonic9538
    @bluetonic9538 3 года назад +2

    Beautiful cars. My Mums first car was a 1850HL, absolutely loved that car. JCH957N.
    She bought it for £1 from my Grandad in 1976 when he bought a Triumph 2500 S, now that really was a special car

  • @astonmartin4360
    @astonmartin4360 3 года назад +4

    My yellow 1978 model was lowered with Pirelli P9's and twin Webber DCOE carbs.Good for 135mph.I loved it.

  • @tiguanman1170
    @tiguanman1170 2 года назад +2

    Very nice looking car. I always fancied one of these.

  • @larsson7709
    @larsson7709 2 года назад +1

    Total blast from the past…my old man had one of these in white 16v with black vinyl roof manual overdrive gearbox plus those icon alloys back in the day..awe the memories 👏

  • @itchywitchy
    @itchywitchy 3 года назад +6

    Great video, my Mum had one in the same colour in the 70's and she loved driving it as it had great visibility all round. My Dad used to drive it 'enthusiastically' and put a couple of concrete flagstones in the boot during the winter to improve traction.

  • @MiniMicroMan1
    @MiniMicroMan1 3 года назад +6

    I had an M reg Sprint in the 80s. It went like a rocket but I had constant trouble with the water pump leaking. Apart from that I loved it.

  • @simonhodgetts6530
    @simonhodgetts6530 3 года назад +9

    One of the best sporting saloons of the 70s, and definitely the template for BMW 3 series! It was also the first British production car to be fitted with standard alloy wheels. Engine made its way into the SAAB 900. A very smart looking classic car………..

    • @cambridgemart2075
      @cambridgemart2075 3 года назад +2

      The engine in its 8V form found its way into the Saab 99, Saab developed it further then used it in the 900.

    • @amigachris
      @amigachris 3 года назад

      @@cambridgemart2075 it was actually used in a saab before triumph in 1701cc form.

    • @cambridgemart2075
      @cambridgemart2075 3 года назад

      @@amigachris I hadn't realised that, rather interesting fact!

  • @briforks7681
    @briforks7681 3 года назад +32

    Would have been interesting to see these develop over the years like the 1502 changed into the modern 3 series.

  • @josephmifsud8261
    @josephmifsud8261 Год назад

    Wow. One of my three possible classic future purchases. Love it

  • @dandandan389
    @dandandan389 3 года назад +6

    My first car after passing my test in 2003 was a tatty old Sprint, I dearly loved that car! FRW 180T

    • @StupStups
      @StupStups 3 года назад +1

      I passed my test in 2003 and first car was a Toledo!

  • @Richard-Bullock
    @Richard-Bullock 3 года назад +10

    My dad had his own car repair business when I was a boy. The customer courtesy car was a Dolly 1300. Oh how I coveted that car! I was gutted when he sold it before I was old enough to drive. While all my friends were getting themselves a mk2 Fiesta, or a Nova, I really wanted that Dolomite.

    • @idriveaclassic
      @idriveaclassic  3 года назад +1

      Ahh you had good taste ❤️

    • @Richard-Bullock
      @Richard-Bullock 3 года назад +1

      @@idriveaclassic Well I like to think so. I did get a 1970 Fiat 500 as my first car. I currently have a 1991 Micra K10 as my daily driver. It is EXACTLY like the white Micra Premium you drove a while back.

  • @garyharding1261
    @garyharding1261 3 года назад +4

    Great to see another video and we'll done featuring The Dolomite, hope you enjoyed driving Steph !
    I love driving my 1850, but always working on it !

  • @AndyB59
    @AndyB59 2 года назад +3

    Best looking saloon of its time. I have always been a Triumph fanatic and this is one of their best.

  • @Rhythmattica
    @Rhythmattica 2 года назад +1

    I sooooo miss mine... Had one here in OZ.

  • @Maddpunx
    @Maddpunx 3 года назад +10

    Love the retro Radiomobile speakers, lovely car.

  • @davidpittwood4395
    @davidpittwood4395 3 года назад +2

    I used to really enjoy driving my parent's 1500HL and found that 3rdo/d was perfect for town use. Using 4th would make the engine pink and judder like crazy. Always wanted to get my hands on one of the larger engined variants. Still a very attractive looking vehicle in my opinion.

  • @leopoldonotarianni8663
    @leopoldonotarianni8663 3 года назад

    Fascinating car. My classmate's older brother had a Triumph Dolomite Sprint and when I finally learnt more about them I could see what all the fuss was over.

  • @andyarmstrong1493
    @andyarmstrong1493 3 года назад +2

    Good to see you again. Loved this vid. Had a 76 Toledo, always wanted one of these. Professionals!

  • @pauljeffrey1181
    @pauljeffrey1181 3 года назад +2

    In 1984 I had the pleasure of passing my driving test in my Dad's Triumph Dolomite 1500HL after failing three times in the driving instructor's 1.1L Escort.
    I look back and think the Dolomite was the most pleasing car I have ever driven.

  • @nnnormski2208
    @nnnormski2208 3 года назад +3

    70s Chic .......love the twin headlamps on cars of that era , ....nice example.

  • @davek12
    @davek12 3 года назад +8

    Should've been the standard engine in the TR7. I love how this one has that very pretty yellow color. Sunny and cheerful. So many 70s B-L yellow colors are patterned after brands of spicy mustard (full of nuance but not pretty) rather than sunflowers or the like.

    • @simonhodgetts6530
      @simonhodgetts6530 3 года назад +3

      Agreed - the TR7 would have been a completely different car with the 16v engine……..should have been a drop top from the off too!

    • @donaldtucker4914
      @donaldtucker4914 3 года назад +1

      @@Velocipedium I thought this car looks like Inca Yellow. Mimosa is a slightly paler, flatter looking colour I think. This colour is from 1977-80 I think so it's an early car in a later colour.

  • @alasdairvincent6248
    @alasdairvincent6248 3 года назад +2

    What a lovely Dolly Sprint . These were fast cars in their day. One of the nicest cars of its time.

  • @Jaxs2
    @Jaxs2 3 года назад +12

    Beautiful car , Around 61 TR7 sprints where made but it is a very finicky engine, a pain in the rear to be honest and that's putting it mildly but yet I do love the Dolomite Sprints 🙂👍 best colour 👌

    • @SiCrewe
      @SiCrewe 3 года назад +2

      Oh lordy, you have no idea.
      Back in the 80's I bought a TR7 Sprint, purely because of the engine.
      I was also in the process of properly restoring a TR7 convertible and I planned to put the sprint engine in it but, after using the Sprint as a daily-driver for about 6 months, I ended-up fitting a FIAT/Lancia twin-cam into the convertible instead.
      Back-to-back, the Lancia engine was streets ahead of the Sprint engine; much more reliable, less rattly, less prone to overheating and oil leaks, much better parts-availability and much, much (much) better performance.
      On paper, I seem to recall that both engines had similar performance but, on the road, the longer stroke of the Lancia engine meant that it had more torque and you could, basically, drive everywhere in a higher gear than in the Sprint, where the Sprint always had to be thrashed to get it moving.
      In the end, I tidied up the TR7 Sprint and sold it for enough money to pay for itself AND cover the cost of doing the engine-swap on the convertible.

    • @stevo6900
      @stevo6900 3 года назад

      Not much history on the TR7 sprints apparently cancelled in 77 because the FIA band multi-valve heads the 76 us emissions legislation and where there is some evidence canceled in favour of the TR8 none were ever sold as a catalogue car out of the 61 produced

  • @robbierobinson394
    @robbierobinson394 2 года назад

    I've only just found this site,and I have to tell you that you are fabulous
    at your reviews on classic cars.
    Top gear could do with you. Passionate. Knowledge. Etc and at the end a fair summary.
    Keep doing these and I hope you get spotted for your talent.

  • @pj100565
    @pj100565 3 года назад +5

    Great one Steph! Lovely to see you, I’ve had withdrawal symptoms! Hope you’re all good 🙂

  • @jimmer1976
    @jimmer1976 3 года назад +1

    Love these, when I was a nipper a few of the local lads had these, black, green and white ones. Always loved the look of these, I’d happily own one 😍

  • @Ricketik65
    @Ricketik65 3 года назад +2

    One of my favourite cars from the seventies, I never knew they made so few of them. I was pleasantly surprised when Rowan Atkinson drove one in the third Johnny English film.

    • @idriveaclassic
      @idriveaclassic  3 года назад +4

      Rowan is a car man to be fair. Wonder if he had a hand in it.

    • @Ricketik65
      @Ricketik65 3 года назад

      @@idriveaclassic I'm sure he had.

  • @williamnethercott4364
    @williamnethercott4364 2 месяца назад

    I had a colleague who had one of these in the eighties and she loved it. I still miss my old Herald, even though it went to the great garage in the sky over 45 years ago but I wish I'd had it from new.

  • @samclaytonme
    @samclaytonme 3 года назад +1

    Another lovely video and really nice to see all the attention on the Triumph range (esp. the small saloons). We have an early Dolomite (Badged Dolomite, not Dolomite 1850) Auto and it's LOVELY to drive. I was really worried about the 3 speed auto, but they got the combination of diff, auto and engine torque spot on.
    One SMALL criticism of the video... the way to really truely LOVE a Dolomite Sprint is to drop it down a gear and boot it and enjoy the top end of the rev range on that amazing 16V engine.

  • @lossadjuster1
    @lossadjuster1 3 года назад +2

    Used to have a 1500TC loved that car, so comfortable.

  • @stuartsaunders4518
    @stuartsaunders4518 3 года назад +5

    A very handsome design and looks particularly good in that colour & wheel design combination

  • @SoddingaboutSi
    @SoddingaboutSi 2 года назад +1

    I always loved the look of the Dolomite. Dad drove a MK1 Escort but these looked far smarter.

  • @julianleyton8668
    @julianleyton8668 3 года назад +1

    I was working in a Triumph dealership when these were launched and later had one as a company car (although it blew its head gasket at just 800 miles old !).
    Brilliant car and absolutely loved it.
    You’re right, the first (I think) 1000 were all painted Mimosa, although that one seems to me to be more like Inca - respray ?
    If I can find the time I will tell you later about the Dolomite 135 !

  • @jonathanwilkins6071
    @jonathanwilkins6071 3 года назад

    I owned a 1979 Dolly Sprint..back in 1984..
    Back in the day was in the Motor Trade as a Panel Beater and finisher.
    I re sprayed in ICI 2 pack mixing Ford XR3 Sunburst Red..
    Looked amazing but like all had an overheating issue...
    Fast for sure clicking the overdrive in ...
    To this day, I always talk about it..
    I did own a W reg XR3 in Sunburst Red...
    Dolly was my fav...I am 55 now and looking to buy another one...👍👍
    Your Dolly in Mimosa Yellow looks great...

  • @kevinpallett910
    @kevinpallett910 2 года назад

    One of my favourite cars of all time. Thank you for the review, poppet! 🥰

  • @Spookieham
    @Spookieham 3 года назад +1

    Another cracking video - good to see you back on youTube👍

  • @golddalekwho5944
    @golddalekwho5944 3 года назад +3

    When I was a kid still at primary in 1979 I used to ride around on my bike and made a point of riding to see one of these parked outside someone's house. I loved it. And wanted one😄. One day the bloke came out his door while I was peering in at the dash. "You want to buy it" he said.
    Well it scared me off and I never went back. 😔

  • @karenleith6079
    @karenleith6079 3 года назад +7

    Fantastic! I’d love one in Magenta

    • @glennfryer1539
      @glennfryer1539 3 года назад +1

      Loved the Magenta, I had a Stag in that colour ...

  • @Rapscallion2009
    @Rapscallion2009 2 года назад

    it says everything about the UK car industry. This is the tip-top flagship model of their luxury small saloon. And it has just a single door mirror - no passenger door mirror.
    I love the details of this example, like the era-appropriate rear speakers and the fact that it's loved, but actually driven and used. And that colour!

  • @stephenporter5886
    @stephenporter5886 3 года назад

    I owned a Triumph Dolomite Sprint which was the second car that I owned. Initial overheating problems - due to a warped head. But after I had the head skimmed and a thicker head gasket fitted, all was good. Andy Rouse raced this car in the UK Saloon Cars Championship and winning the driver's championship in 1975 - fond memories.

  • @peterriggall8409
    @peterriggall8409 3 года назад +1

    These came to Australia but I believe this yellow was the only colour available. Very few survive as they were usually driven pretty hard. Lovely example and the paint looks in great condition. Resprayed I guess. Very handsome looking car. Thanks Steph. and the owner.

    • @idriveaclassic
      @idriveaclassic  3 года назад

      I think it might’ve been although if it has it bears no hallmarks. It’s seamless.

  • @stephensmith6367
    @stephensmith6367 3 года назад

    Owned a blue 1973 1850 Triumph Dolmite when I was 19 years old.
    Happy memories .

  • @nordic1121
    @nordic1121 3 года назад

    I owned one of these up until 2002, I bought it in 1989 very cheaply it handled well and was quick, a company in Essex called sprint spares helped me out for spare parts, I sold it because I went working away so the car stood for long periods, good memories.

  • @artiexr222
    @artiexr222 3 года назад +5

    About time Steph lol a great review of a real classic,went to my wedding in my Dolly Sprint in 1981 a true classic.

  • @drwho534
    @drwho534 3 года назад +1

    Glad to see Steph back once again! Another interesting car, another enjoyable drive! Cheers! :)

  • @johnnyrvf
    @johnnyrvf 3 года назад

    I had a Dolomite Sprint back in 1992 on a L plate. It was stolen in Fulham and found partially stripped in the tower block flats just north of Wandsworth Bridge. Lovely car which I still miss today.

  • @petergouldbourn2312
    @petergouldbourn2312 3 года назад +1

    Great review of one of my childhood dreams. 🇬🇧

  • @ABCDEF-yf4yu
    @ABCDEF-yf4yu 3 года назад

    The Dolomite was introduced in 1971 with the 1850 engine. By 1976 all medium sized Triumph saloons were called Dolomite from the boring 1300 that replaced the Toledo, the 1500 that replaced the 1500TC. The Sprint is the most exciting model introduced in 1973 that went up to 115mph, and this Inca yellow L reg is one of the earliest.

  • @liverpoolscottish6430
    @liverpoolscottish6430 3 года назад

    The Sprint was good for 116 mph and hit 60 in 8.4 seconds- which was extremely rapid in the 70's. 127 Bhp, overdrive on 3rd and top. Great ergonomics. Classy Smiths instrument gauges, lovely interior. The Sprint was a superb motor-providing it was maintained properly- especially the cooling system. RS2000 eater!

  • @grahamthornton5669
    @grahamthornton5669 3 года назад +2

    "I'm sure when it was brand new it was absolutely fine" - not a comment people usually associate with 70s BL products! But beautiful car Steph, and what a great colour! Thanks for making this.

  • @Adam_T
    @Adam_T 3 года назад +6

    I love the airbox on these, craftily makes the engine look like a V8 (in that you expect another bank of cylinders under it) .....

    • @davek12
      @davek12 3 года назад

      What if the Stag V8 had basically been two of these instead of whatever it was?

    • @Adam_T
      @Adam_T 3 года назад

      It kinda was based on the Dolly engine (or the dolly engine was half a Stag upped to 18-50) but that OHC V8 was a nightmare for overheating / head warping etc, they should have used the Rover V8 ......... but yes , a 4 litre 16V V8 based on 2 Sprint Cyl banks would have been something so long as they got the reliabiity right .

  • @garysimpson3900
    @garysimpson3900 2 года назад

    As a teenager in the mid 1970's I always remember the advert for the Sprint in the Sunday supplement magazines. It went something like "Dolomite Sprint, 0-The Magistrates Court in 9 seconds"

    • @NigelH-if9md
      @NigelH-if9md 8 месяцев назад +1

      Exactly what happened to me too, when I was pulled by a plain clothes cop in a Rover P6 3500 on the A3, whilst trying to get a stubborn Granada 3.0 to shift out of the fast lane so I could pass. Guess who got done! ;-)

  • @Merlin-lc4zu
    @Merlin-lc4zu 3 года назад +1

    The Two Ronnies."The 1000th car rolled off the British Leyland production line this week and fell onto the other 999".Always liked the Dolomite sprint.

  • @normanswift5048
    @normanswift5048 3 года назад

    I had a 1975 Sprint in mimosa after learning to drive in an Avenger 1250 and the difference was chalk and cheese. The performance of the Dolomite was amazing back in the day. I had to sort out a lot of wheel arch rust even though the car was less than 5 years old but the classy interior and acceleration made up for that. I had a major incident on the motorway when the bearing in the viscous fan seized and sheared off causing havoc in the engine bay by cutting through hoses and electrical leads. Didn't put me off though as I kept it for another 3 years after the repair!

  • @stevenbarton7809
    @stevenbarton7809 2 года назад +1

    Shes good researched her stuff and she loves a classic car because they have charm

  • @darthgardner
    @darthgardner 3 года назад

    Have to say your comments are spot on..this dolomite in this colour is the only one i remember i grew up with these cars it stood out in that canary yellow. toledo- stag - 2000 -2500 pi -Gt6 they were all in my youth👍.

  • @gryfandjane
    @gryfandjane 3 года назад

    What were we seeing at 11:07? I thought for a minute that this car actually had two clocks on the dash. ;-) That said, what a splendid example of this fascinating car! I’ve long admired the design of the Triumph sedans, especially the Sprint. Thanks as always, and regards from the US.
    PS: Yes, I do pay attention to the details. ;-)

  • @omni7575
    @omni7575 3 года назад

    I love the wobble on the speedo needle until it gets past 30mph.
    Imagine being pulled over by the old bill.
    "Can you tell me what speed you were doing?"
    "I have no idea officer, between 30 and 35 depending on the nano second you asking me for? "
    I love this car!

  • @radiation1001
    @radiation1001 3 года назад +1

    A great review of a fantastic car. I'm from Doncaster so recognise the test drive route. Keep up the good work Steph, I enjoy all of your videos.

  • @pauld7827
    @pauld7827 Год назад

    I always remember as a kid, looking in the car dealer window at the Dolomite and promised myself I'd get one! About 20 or so years later I did! 'Dolly' was a white 1977 (TVJ 649 S) 1500 HL and we loved her! It wasn't really practical with the mileage I was doing, so she became the 'family car' with Karen and the children going about their daily drives to school, shopping and trips to the countryside.
    Sadly, we gave it to my sister in law just after she passed her test, on the understanding that we'd have it back. She decided to pocket the money from the scrappy and I have never forgiven her.
    Now Karen has passed, I keep thinking about getting another, but these old cars are getting very expensive now.

  • @calebmiles
    @calebmiles 3 года назад

    I had one in the same colour, R reg with a full length Webasto sun roof and lots of fun to drive.

  • @donaljamescaddye3805
    @donaljamescaddye3805 3 года назад

    My dad had one - the best colour by far - he was daddy cool at our school - I wish I had one ! Great video Steph - brought so many good memories back !! Thanks a mill !

  • @timcotsford2056
    @timcotsford2056 3 года назад +2

    Shame you didn't get to use the overdrive. One of the most enjoyable things on my Dolly Sprint is flicking through the gears and using the overdrive in 3rd & 4th. Easily keeps up with modern traffic

  • @Spookieham
    @Spookieham 3 года назад +1

    Always my favourite Triumph saloon car.

  • @RightWing1
    @RightWing1 3 года назад

    Now that is one great looking car - I had the pleasure only once back in 1983 to drive a friends 1850HL would have loved to drive a Sprint

  • @gordonchalmers2693
    @gordonchalmers2693 Год назад

    Had a white one with the webasto roof option in the late seventies,loved it

  • @adarbs6384
    @adarbs6384 3 года назад +2

    I've always thought the Dolly's were the best UK car from the time. Absolutely love them. Hope the new job is going well for you, Steph 😁

  • @markthompson62
    @markthompson62 3 года назад +1

    My mate had the 1850HL version back in the day & I was deeply envious of it's punch & stylish good looks so I hatched a plan to buy a Sprint to out do him. Sadly the insurance quote I was given ended that plan pretty quickly. I think it stands the test of time though. Beautiful thing.

    • @mw8653
      @mw8653 2 года назад +1

      My brother had an 1850HL automatic it was surprisingly quick.

  • @terribelbliss9646
    @terribelbliss9646 3 года назад +1

    Pretty car, very stylish.

  • @tomg7951
    @tomg7951 3 года назад +2

    Great review thanks Steph, and what an amazing car, an absolute stunner! Love the style and colour...a real favourite of mine, very envious! Great car, great review!

  • @paulscountrygarage9180
    @paulscountrygarage9180 3 года назад +1

    A bit of info for you. In Australia we only got Mimosa Yellow Sprints. Consequently, the other colours look a little “strange” to us. I do like the other coloured Sprints.

  • @chocolatemonster07
    @chocolatemonster07 3 года назад +3

    I think they have the best colour options out of any car. I actually saw this car 3 years ago at the NEC 👍

    • @ibs5080
      @ibs5080 3 года назад +1

      Will be at the NEC Classic Car Show for two days in November. Never been before.

    • @chocolatemonster07
      @chocolatemonster07 3 года назад

      @@ibs5080 You're in for a treat then. I've been 4 times, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2019 all been great.

    • @ibs5080
      @ibs5080 3 года назад

      @@chocolatemonster07 Oh that's great to hear Dan. You think two full days is enough? I know it's 5 full halls and not just cars but all kinds of vendors too. Im in Canterbury and will drive up to NEC on the Friday and check into very nearby hotel Friday for 3 nights. Tickets for the actual show booked for Saturday and Sunday. Then check out of hotel Monday and drive home that day. I've watched quite a few past YT videos of the show as part of my "homework".

    • @chocolatemonster07
      @chocolatemonster07 3 года назад +1

      @@ibs5080 I sort of rushed my way through the last two times, I got through it all in 5 hours but I took over 400 pictures and enjoyed it all, leaving was the worst part.

    • @ibs5080
      @ibs5080 3 года назад

      @@chocolatemonster07 Interesting to hear. Wow, just 5 hours! I should hopefully have plenty of time if I'm there for 2 days then. At the time I booked a few weeks ago, they were still requiring to book for a specific time slot AND entrance #. I've booked for the earliest time slot both days and different entrances each day, since it made sense to me to start in a different hall each day. They do mention on their web site that the arrival time and entrance # requirements might be lifted by then but either way, it's all booked now.

  • @anthonytallarida4192
    @anthonytallarida4192 3 года назад +2

    Another awsome video Steph, i really loved this review, keep up the good work.

  • @TheLRider
    @TheLRider 3 года назад

    PCH2N was mine exactly the same, absolutely loved it. Bought a nearly new tahiti blue? After that. Beautiful cars with grace and pace a poor man's Jag? Beautiful interior and great compact looks. O/D box gave you a six speed box back in the 70s. So easy to maintain and I really looked after mine. No probs whatsoever.

  • @ericgeorge5483
    @ericgeorge5483 3 года назад

    This was a real nostalgia trip for an oldie like me; trust me that Dolly Sprint looks better than I do. Thanks for a fab upload, I love these cars; they were pretty damn quick at the time; my mate had one that did over 40mph in first gear, bonkers! This was a great review, love your work, thank you.

  • @edwardgwatterson1618
    @edwardgwatterson1618 3 года назад +1

    Dolly sprint, now this is one of my all time favourites great car with a top motorsport pedigree

  • @simonchaddock4274
    @simonchaddock4274 3 года назад

    Just like the car I owned.
    The Sprint was a bit of a 'Q' car as a 4 door saloon that could really move but that beautiful 16 valve engine had some significant and fundamental weaknesses. The angled cylinder head bolts meant cylinder gasket problems were inevitable if the car was worked hard leading to head corrosion problems. With the very low production volumes of the 'Sprint only' parts made them seriously expensive. The unique Sprint water pump (it was a known weak point) was about 4 times the price of a Ford one. Nevertheless it was great fun to drive. I kept mine for 3 years and 42,000 miles. Just as well I was single and in a well paid job.

  • @volvo480
    @volvo480 3 года назад

    A yellow Dolomite Sprint brings back memories to my school mate Pierre who owned a HubNut-worthy fleet of cars (apart from the Dolly there was also a Dyane). We had loads of fun with the Sprint and a Dyane can carry six if you stand upright in it. When I tried to get back in touch after many years, turned out he died in a car crash when he drove back from his unit where he was restoring a Citroën DS, just a couple of years ago. His wife had erected an online memorial for him, so at least I could share the memories with her. Makes me throw even more money in the bottomless pits that are my cars, as life can be over sooner than you think. Carpe Diem.

  • @musicismytherapy4936
    @musicismytherapy4936 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for another great video Steph, I have one of these! 😊

  • @mrcogginsgarage7062
    @mrcogginsgarage7062 3 года назад +7

    Very good to see you back again and a cracking car to return with nice one Steph.
    By the way how's the Marina doing ?

    • @idriveaclassic
      @idriveaclassic  3 года назад +3

      Marina is still in bits! New job has really taken it out of me and she’s taken a back seat whilst I adjust. Also been fighting a bit of battle with depression. A strange summer I must admit x

    • @mrcogginsgarage7062
      @mrcogginsgarage7062 3 года назад +2

      Chin up chicken ,you will get back on track soon ,take care and stay safe x.

    • @Spookieham
      @Spookieham 3 года назад +1

      @@idriveaclassic take your time and take it easy. We're all still here for you👍

  • @andygreen1a
    @andygreen1a 3 года назад

    Great review as always Steph, you’re enthusiasm and personality always shine through. I hope you’ve settled into and are enjoying your new job. Love these cars. My uncle had one on an R plate when I was a kid. Had it 9 years and never a problem with it. He only got rid of it as it was involved in an accident, not his fault and insurance company said it was uneconomic to repair. Great memories watching this. Feeling crap at home after chemo and this has really brightened my day. Thank you. BTW, love how your dress coordinates with the car, I’ve noticed you’ve don that before. If that isn’t dedicated I don’t know what is 👍

    • @idriveaclassic
      @idriveaclassic  3 года назад

      Yes, finally starting to settle in but lots to be done. I’ve been exhausted hence my silence!

    • @andygreen1a
      @andygreen1a 3 года назад

      @@idriveaclassic as long as you’re okay 👍

  • @SBKPete
    @SBKPete 3 года назад

    I learned to drive in one of those, in July 1977. Great car at the time.

  • @johndrake2729
    @johndrake2729 Год назад

    Lewis Collins drove one in The Professionals before he switched to the Capris. Out of all the BL's they drove in the first series of that show, I loved the Dolly Sprint the best.

  • @plunkervillerr1529
    @plunkervillerr1529 3 года назад

    For joy , for joy I found your sight again .

  • @kjeldlarsen912
    @kjeldlarsen912 3 года назад +3

    Thank you Very much

  • @brianparker663
    @brianparker663 3 года назад

    Thank you Steph for bringing back memories of my favourite ever car - an 1850HL with overdrive and a full Webasto sunroof. It was in the same colour and I loved it. Just one quibble (and I wait to be shot down!) - I'm pretty sure that is Inca Yellow and not Mimosa which was a tad lighter :-)

  • @007JHS
    @007JHS 2 года назад

    The all systems go wheel was in the Stag and the 2500S... A lot of carry over in parts and styling which was good. The Dash layout in this, virtually identical to my old 2500S o/d

  • @thephilpott2194
    @thephilpott2194 3 года назад +1

    If i remember right Bodie and Doyle threw one of these around in a couple of the early episodes.

  • @johnthomas7038
    @johnthomas7038 2 года назад

    A lots of the fittings including dash, glovebox, overdrive switch and grab handles seem the same at the Triumph 2000 - brings back memories, especially that wonky overdrive switch.

  • @martinevans1256
    @martinevans1256 3 года назад +3

    What a lovely car great review Steph as always 🌹

  • @adebrade172
    @adebrade172 3 года назад

    Loved this I had spitfire in same colour when I was 17, always wanted a dolomite

  • @scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain
    @scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain 3 года назад +1

    Great review as always Steph, got to admit I like the dolomite and was looking at one a few weeks ago in our retail park, great looking cars.