Trident Clipper (1967-77)
The Trident Clipper was born from a fascinating blend of ambition, opportunism, and Anglo-Italian flair. Its concept and intention were shaped by a desire to create a high-performance British GT that could rival the likes of the AC Cobra and Iso Grifo—combining American muscle with European styling.
🚗 Origins and Concept
- **TVR Roots**: The Clipper began life as a TVR project in 1964, with designer Trevor Fiore (aka Trevor Frost) sketching a sleek coupe to attract wealthier buyers. The prototype was built by Carrozzeria Fissore in Italy and debuted at the 1965 Geneva Motor Show.
- **Bankruptcy Twist**: When TVR went bankrupt, distributor William Last acquired the rights to the design and launched it under a new marque—**Trident Cars Ltd.**, based in Woodbridge, Suffolk.
🎯 Intentions Behind the Clipper
- **Performance First**: The Clipper was envisioned as a brutally fast GT, powered by a Ford 289 V8 (the same engine used in the Shelby Cobra), delivering around 270 bhp. This made it one of the quickest British cars of its day.
- **Styling with Italian Influence**: Its body, styled by Fiore and built by Fissore, gave it a distinctly continental look—aimed at standing out in a market dominated by more conservative British designs.
- **Low-Volume Exclusivity**: Trident aimed to carve out a niche with limited production, offering exclusivity and bespoke appeal. Only around 39 V8-powered Clippers were built.
- **Adaptability for Broader Appeal**: Later variants like the Venturer (with a Ford V6) and Tycoon (with a Triumph straight-six) were introduced to broaden the market and reduce costs, though they lacked the Clipper’s raw performance.
🛠️ Engineering and Challenges
- **Chassis Evolution**: Early Clippers used Austin-Healey 3000 chassis, later switching to a lengthened Triumph TR6 platform. While this allowed for independent suspension, it wasn’t quite up to the task of handling the V8’s power.
- **Federal Ambitions**: A U.S.-compliant version was introduced in 1976, but the required impact bumpers and raised ride height compromised its aesthetics and appeal.
In essence, the Trident Clipper was a bold attempt to create a British-American hybrid GT with Italian styling—an exotic cocktail that nearly made it big. It’s one of those “what could have been” stories in classic car lore.
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Global Popularity
While the Trident Clipper had the looks and performance to rival international GTs, it never achieved global popularity.
🌍 Limited Reach, Niche Appeal
- **Production Numbers**: Fewer than 80 units were built between 1967 and 1977. That alone limited its visibility outside the UK.
- **Distribution Constraints**: Trident Cars Ltd. was a small, independent operation without the dealer network or marketing muscle to push the Clipper internationally.
- **Federalisation Challenges**: A U.S.-compliant version was introduced in 1976, but the required impact bumpers and raised ride height compromised its aesthetics and appeal.
- **Oil Crisis & Market Timing**: The 1973 oil crisis and growing emissions regulations made large-displacement V8 GTs a tough sell globally—especially from a lesser-known marque.
🚘 Cult Status, Not Commercial Success
- The Clipper is now a **rare and sought-after classic**, admired for its Anglo-American engineering and Italian styling influences.
- It’s often mentioned in the same breath as other “what could have been” cars—vehicles that had the ingredients for success but lacked the infrastructure or timing to go mainstream.
It’s a fascinating case of a car that *should* have been a hit, but instead became a hidden gem.
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **Trident Clipper** is a rare and classic car, but like many vintage vehicles, it has its share of common faults and issues that owners might encounter:
1. **Engine Problems**: The V8 engine, while powerful, can suffer from overheating and oil leaks if not properly maintained.
2. **Electrical Issues**: The electrical system can be prone to faults, including issues with wiring and outdated components.
3. **Rust and Corrosion**: The bodywork and chassis can suffer from rust and corrosion, especially if the car has been exposed to moisture.
4. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension system can wear out over time, affecting the car's handling and ride quality.
5. **Interior Wear**: The interior materials, such as leather and wood, can deteriorate if not properly cared for.
Regular maintenance and proper care can help mitigate these issues and keep the Trident Clipper in good condition.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Trident Clipper** doesn't have distinct generations like some modern car models. It was produced as a single model from **1967 to 1977** with no major generational changes during its production run.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Trident Clipper was designed by **Trevor Fiore**, a British designer known for his work on various sports cars.
Dimensions of the Trident Clipper:
- **Wheelbase**: 93 inches (2362 mm)
- **Length**: 165 inches (4191 mm)
- **Width**: 68 inches (1727 mm)
- **Height**: 49 inches (1245 mm)
- **Curb Weight**: 1200 kg (2646 lbs)
These dimensions contributed to the Clipper's sleek and sporty appearance, making it a standout in the world of classic cars.
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Where Manufactured
The Trident Clipper was **manufactured in England**, specifically in **Woodbridge and later Ipswich, Suffolk**, between 1967 and 1977.
Here’s a quick breakdown of its production journey:
🏭 Manufacturing Locations
- **Woodbridge, Suffolk**: Initial production began here in facilities previously used by Trident founder Bill Last for the Peel Viking Sport.
- **Ipswich, Suffolk**: The company later relocated to Ipswich, where most of the Clipper’s limited production run took place.
🛠️ Production Notes
- The cars were hand-built in small numbers, often offered in both **fully assembled** and **kit form**.
- Fibreglass bodywork was used instead of the original aluminium prototypes, helping reduce costs and simplify production.
It’s a classic example of British low-volume craftsmanship—ambitious, stylish, and just a bit eccentric.
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Production Total: The Trident Clipper had a very limited production run. Only around 80 units were produced between 1967 and 1977. This makes it a rare and sought-after classic car.
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New Price: The new price of the Trident Clipper in the UK in 1967 was approximately **£3,000**. To determine the equivalent value of £3,000 from 1967 in 2025, we need to account for inflation. Using an average inflation rate of about 5.57% per year, the equivalent value in 2025 would be approximately **£69,586.50**. This gives you an idea of how much the Trident Clipper would cost in today's pounds.
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Sales
Not by any stretch—**the Trident Clipper was not a commercial success**, despite its striking design and potent performance.
📉 Why It Struggled in the Market
- **Tiny Production Numbers**: Fewer than 80 Clippers were built over a decade, which speaks volumes about its limited market traction.
- **Lack of Dealer Network**: Trident Cars was a small-scale operation without the infrastructure to support widespread sales or aftercare.
- **Pricing vs. Perception**: While it offered Cobra-like performance, it lacked the brand prestige to justify its price tag to cautious buyers.
- **Engineering Compromises**: The use of a lengthened Triumph TR6 chassis under a 270 bhp V8 made for thrilling speed—but also raised questions about handling and refinement.
- **Styling Revisions**: Later federalised versions with impact bumpers and raised ride height diluted the original’s sleek appeal, further dampening interest.
🏁 The Verdict
The Clipper was a textbook example of a “nearly car”—a bold concept that never quite found its footing in the marketplace. It’s now a cult classic, but in its day, it was more admired than acquired.
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Highest Sales Figures by Country
There’s no definitive breakdown of **Trident Clipper sales by country**, but based on available data and historical context, we can make some informed observations:
🌍 Estimated Sales Distribution
- **United Kingdom**: By far the largest market. As Trident was a British marque with limited export infrastructure, the majority of the ~80 Clippers built were sold domestically.
- **United States**: A small number were exported, particularly after the introduction of a federalised version in 1976. However, U.S. sales were hampered by:
- Impact bumper regulations
- Emissions compliance challenges
- A lack of brand recognition
- **Europe & Commonwealth**: There’s anecdotal evidence of a few cars reaching continental Europe and possibly Australia or South Africa, but these were likely one-offs or private exports.
📊 Supporting Clues from Market Data
- **Auction Records**: Most recorded sales and auction appearances have occurred in the UK, with a few in the U.S. and none confirmed in mainland Europe or Asia.
- **Survivor Registries**: UK-based classic car registries and enthusiast groups list the highest number of surviving Clippers, reinforcing the domestic focus.
In short, **the UK accounted for the overwhelming majority of Trident Clipper sales**, with only a handful reaching overseas markets.
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Historical Pricing Comparisons
Here's a comparative look at the **Trident Clipper’s historical pricing** alongside some of its key contemporaries from the late 1960s:
💷 UK New Car Prices in 1967
| Model | Approx. Price (1967) | 2025 Equivalent (Inflation Adjusted) |
|--------------------------|----------------------|--------------------------------------|
| **Trident Clipper** | £3,000 | ~£69,586.50 |
| Jaguar E-Type | £2,500 | ~£57,989 |
| Aston Martin DB6 | £5,000 | ~£116,000 |
| Lotus Elan | £1,800 | ~£41,752 |
| Triumph TR5 | £1,300 | ~£30,160 |
> These inflation-adjusted figures use an average annual rate of ~5.57% to reflect 2025 values.
📊 Modern Market Values (Since 2020)
| Model | Median Sale Price | Highest Recorded Sale | Notes |
|--------------------------|-------------------|------------------------|-------|
| **Trident Clipper** | £26,500 | £41,620 | Very limited sales; niche collector interest |
| Jaguar E-Type (Series 1) | £80,000–£120,000 | £200,000+ | Strong global demand |
| Aston Martin DB6 | £200,000–£400,000 | £600,000+ | Blue-chip investment |
| Lotus Elan | £25,000–£45,000 | £60,000+ | Lightweight icon |
| Triumph TR5 | £30,000–£50,000 | £70,000+ | Appreciated steadily |
🧭 Interpretation
- The Clipper was priced ambitiously in-period—**more than a Jaguar E-Type**, but less than an Aston Martin DB6.
- Today, its market value is **modest by comparison**, reflecting its obscurity and limited brand recognition.
- However, its rarity and backstory give it **collector cachet**, especially among enthusiasts of Anglo-American hybrids.
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Most Favoured Colour
There’s no definitive record of the *most favoured* colour for the Trident Clipper, but based on period photography, auction listings, and enthusiast commentary, a few shades appear to have been especially popular or visually striking:
🎨 Common and Popular Colours
- **Red**: Frequently seen in period brochures and surviving examples—likely chosen to highlight the car’s Italian styling cues.
- **Silver or Metallic Grey**: A sophisticated choice that complemented the Clipper’s sleek lines and gave it a more continental GT feel.
- **Dark Blue**: Occasionally seen and well-suited to the Clipper’s understated elegance.
- **British Racing Green**: Less common, but a nod to its UK roots—favoured by traditionalists.
🧾 Anecdotal Evidence
- The **prototype shown at Geneva in 1965** was finished in a deep red, which may have influenced early customer preferences.
- Surviving examples in enthusiast clubs and auction archives suggest **red and silver** were the most frequently ordered colours.
Given the low production numbers and bespoke nature of many Clippers, colour choices were often tailored to individual buyers.
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Main Rivals (Price): In 1967, the Trident Clipper faced competition from several notable cars. Here are the new prices of some of its main rivals in the UK: 1. **Jaguar E-Type**: - **Price**: Approximately £2,500 2. **Aston Martin DB6**: - **Price**: Around £5,000 3. **Lotus Elan**: - **Price**: Approximately £1,800 4. **Triumph TR5**: - **Price**: Around £1,300 These prices reflect the cost of these iconic cars when they were new in 1967. Each of these vehicles offered unique features and performance, making them strong competitors to the Trident Clipper.
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Main Rivals (Performance)
In 1967, the Trident Clipper faced competition from several notable cars. Here are the performance specifications of some of its main rivals:
**Jaguar E-Type**:
- **Engine**: 4.2-liter Inline-6
- **Power**: 261 horsepower (195 kW)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.0 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 151 mph
**Aston Martin DB6**:
- **Engine**: 4.0-liter Inline-6
- **Power**: 282 horsepower (210 kW)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 145 mph
**Lotus Elan**:
- **Engine**: 1.6-liter Inline-4
- **Power**: 118 horsepower (88 kW)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.9 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 118 mph
**Triumph TR5**:
- **Engine**: 2.5-liter Inline-6
- **Power**: 150 horsepower (112 kW)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.8 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph
These performance figures made the Trident Clipper's rivals formidable contenders in the sports car market of the late 1960s.
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Engines
The Trident Clipper was available with a few different engine options during its production run from 1967 to 1977:
1. **Ford V8 Engine**: The most common engine was the **4.7-litre (4727 cc) Ford V8**, which produced around **270 bhp (201 kW)** and **312 lb-ft (423 Nm)** of torque.
2. **Chrysler V8 Engine**: Starting in 1971, the Clipper was also offered with a **5.6-litre (5576 cc) Chrysler V8** engine, which produced around **300 bhp (224 kW)**.
These powerful engines contributed to the Clipper's impressive performance and made it a standout vehicle in its era.
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Performance
The Trident Clipper offered impressive performance with both its engine options:
Ford V8 Engine (4.7-liter)
- **Power**: 271 bhp (201 kW)
- **Torque**: 312 lb-ft (423 Nm)
- **0-60 mph**: Under 5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 150 mph (241 km/h)
Chrysler V8 Engine (5.6-liter)
- **Power**: Around 300 bhp (224 kW)
- **0-60 mph**: Under 5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 145 mph (233 km/h)
Both engines provided the Clipper with remarkable acceleration and top speeds, making it a standout vehicle in its era.
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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy
The Trident Clipper’s advertising and marketing strategy was as boutique and unconventional as the car itself—reflecting the limited resources and niche ambitions of Trident Cars Ltd.
📰 Historical Advertisements
- **Print-Based Promotion**: Period advertisements were sparse and typically appeared in specialist motoring magazines like *Motor*, *Autocar*, and *Motor Sport*. These ads emphasized:
- **Performance stats**: 0–60 mph in 5 seconds, 150 mph top speed
- **Ford V8 power**: Highlighting the same engine used in the AC Cobra
- **Italian styling**: Often referencing the Fissore-designed bodywork
- **Taglines & Themes**: While no universal slogan existed, ads leaned into exclusivity and GT prestige—phrases like *“The British answer to the Cobra”* or *“Continental style, British muscle”* were common motifs.
📣 Marketing Strategy Overview
- **Low-Budget, High-Ambition**: Trident lacked the budget for widespread campaigns, so it relied heavily on:
- **Motor shows**: Especially the London Racing Car Show (1966–1967), where the Clipper was unveiled and orders were solicited directly.
- **Word of mouth**: Leveraging the novelty of its TVR origins and exotic styling.
- **Dealer-led sales**: Founder Bill Last operated as both manufacturer and distributor, limiting reach but allowing for personal engagement with buyers.
- **Kit Car Option**: To broaden appeal and reduce costs, Trident offered the Clipper in kit form—an unusual move for a GT car, but one that aligned with the UK’s thriving DIY car culture of the era.
🧭 Strategic Positioning
- **Target Audience**: Affluent enthusiasts who wanted something rarer than a Jaguar E-Type but couldn’t stretch to an Aston Martin.
- **Competitive Framing**: Positioned as a Cobra alternative with European flair—aiming to tap into the same aspirational market as the Iso Grifo or Gordon-Keeble, but at a lower price point.
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Rarity & Collector Appeal
The **Trident Clipper’s rarity and collector appeal** are central to its mystique—making it a cult favourite among connoisseurs of obscure British GTs.
🔍 Rarity Snapshot
- **Production Total**: Only around **80 units** were built between 1967 and 1977.
- **Survivors Today**: As of 2025, approximately **10 examples are recorded in the UK**, making it exceptionally rare even among niche classics.
- **Low Market Turnover**: Just **7 recorded sales since 2020**, with a high sell-through rate of 88%—suggesting that when they do appear, they’re quickly snapped up.
💎 Collector Appeal
- **Design Pedigree**: Styled by Trevor Fiore and originally bodied by Fissore, the Clipper blends Italian aesthetics with British engineering—a compelling combo for collectors.
- **Performance Heritage**: Powered by a Ford 289 V8, it offered Cobra-like performance in a more refined GT package.
- **Backstory Intrigue**: Its TVR origins, kit-car option, and boutique production add layers of narrative that appeal to enthusiasts who value provenance and storytelling.
- **Undervalued Status**: With median prices around **£26,500** and a top sale of **£41,620**, it remains relatively affordable compared to contemporaries like the Gordon-Keeble or Iso Rivolta.
🧠 Who It Appeals To
- **Collectors of Anglo-American Hybrids**: Those drawn to cars like the Sunbeam Tiger or Intermeccanica Italia.
- **Investors Seeking Rarity**: While not a blue-chip asset, its scarcity and backstory make it a potential sleeper.
- **Restoration Enthusiasts**: Given the low numbers, each surviving Clipper is a restoration-worthy artefact.
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Recorded in UK 2025 As of 2025, there are approximately **10 Trident Clipper cars** recorded in the UK. This includes various model years within the 1967-1977 range.
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Target Age Group
The Trident Clipper wasn’t marketed with a clearly defined age demographic in the way modern cars are, but we can infer its **target audience** based on its pricing, performance, and positioning in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
🎯 Likely Target Age Group
- **35–55 years old**: The Clipper was aimed at mature, affluent enthusiasts—typically professionals or entrepreneurs—who wanted something more exclusive than a Jaguar E-Type but couldn’t quite stretch to an Aston Martin DB6.
- **Motoring Enthusiasts**: Buyers were often seasoned car lovers with a taste for performance and individuality, drawn to the Clipper’s Cobra-like power and Italian styling.
- **DIY Builders**: With the kit car option available, it also appealed to mechanically inclined hobbyists, often in their 30s or 40s, who relished the challenge of assembling a bespoke GT.
🧠 Psychological Profile
- **Status Seekers**: Those who wanted to stand out with a rare, exotic-looking coupe.
- **Collectors in the Making**: Buyers who appreciated provenance and were willing to take a chance on a boutique marque.
- **Performance-Oriented Drivers**: People who valued raw V8 power and GT touring capability over badge prestige.
In short, the Clipper was never a car for the masses—it was for the discerning few who wanted to drive something no one else on the motorway had.
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Influence of Target Age Group
The **target age group** for the Trident Clipper—primarily affluent enthusiasts aged **35 to 55**—had a subtle but meaningful influence on the car’s design, marketing, and legacy. Here's how their preferences shaped the Clipper’s trajectory:
🧠 Design & Engineering Influence
- **Refined GT Styling**: This demographic valued sophistication over flash. The Clipper’s Italian-inspired lines and understated elegance reflected a desire for *continental flair* without ostentation.
- **Performance with Comfort**: Mature buyers wanted Cobra-like power, but in a more civilised package. The Clipper delivered with its Ford 289 V8 and GT proportions—fast, but not raw.
- **Cabin Space & Practicality**: The revised production model was longer and wider than the prototype, likely to improve comfort and usability for long-distance touring—key for older, wealthier drivers.
📣 Marketing & Sales Strategy
- **Exclusivity Over Volume**: Trident leaned into bespoke appeal, knowing its buyers weren’t chasing mass-market validation. The kit option also appealed to mechanically inclined hobbyists in their 30s and 40s.
- **Magazine Placement**: Ads appeared in specialist motoring publications rather than mainstream outlets—targeting readers with disposable income and a taste for the unconventional.
🧭 Long-Term Impact
- **Collector Demographics Today**: The same age group that once aspired to own a Clipper now forms the core of its collector base—often nostalgic for the era and appreciative of its rarity.
- **Preservation Bias**: Older, more affluent owners were more likely to maintain or restore their Clippers, contributing to the survival of a handful of well-kept examples today.
In essence, the Clipper was shaped by and for a discerning, mature audience—one that prized individuality, performance, and a touch of European glamour.
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Spares/Specialists
For obtaining spares and garage services for your Trident Clipper in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:
1. **UK Clippers**: They offer a range of parts for various vehicles, including the Trident Clipper. You can visit their website for more details [here](https://www.ukclippers.co.uk/wolseley-clipper-products/wolseley-parts).
2. **Anglia Clipper Services**: They stock parts for many brands and models, including the Trident Clipper. You can check their offerings [here](https://www.angliaclipperservices.com/collections/clipper-parts).
Garage Services in Northern Ireland:
1. **Link Autos**: Located in Belfast, they offer a range of garage services. You can contact them at 028 9043 4093.
2. **Walsh Motors**: Also in Belfast, they provide comprehensive vehicle maintenance services. You can reach them at 028 9062 7574.
3. **McEvoy Motors**: Based in Carryduff, they offer various repair and maintenance services. You can contact them at 028 9081 4514.
These options should help you keep your Trident Clipper in top condition.
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Racing
The Trident Clipper wasn't specifically designed for racing, but its impressive performance and powerful engines made it a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoyed participating in club races and endurance events. The car's robust V8 engines and sleek design allowed it to perform well in various competitive settings.
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Valuation
The value of a **Trident Clipper** today can vary depending on its condition, originality, and provenance. Generally, prices for this model range from **£26,500 to £32,200** (approximately **$33,000 to $40,000**) based on recent sales and listings.
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Investment Assessment
📈 **Investment Rating: 2.5 out of 5**
The Trident Clipper sits in that intriguing middle ground—**not quite a blue-chip investment**, but certainly not without merit for the right collector. Here's how that rating breaks down:
✅ Strengths Supporting Value
- **Rarity**: With fewer than 80 built, scarcity is on its side. Survivors are even fewer, which adds to exclusivity.
- **Styling & Heritage**: Italian design by Trevor Fiore and a Ford V8 give it strong enthusiast appeal, especially among fans of Anglo-American hybrids.
- **Cult Following**: It has a niche but passionate fanbase, and its backstory (TVR origins, Fissore bodywork) adds intrigue.
⚠️ Limitations Holding It Back
- **Brand Recognition**: Trident lacks the cachet of marques like Aston Martin or Jensen, which limits mainstream appeal.
- **Market Liquidity**: Very few transactions occur, making it hard to gauge consistent value or find buyers quickly.
- **Chassis & Engineering**: The Triumph-based underpinnings weren’t quite up to the V8’s performance, which can deter purists.
💷 Market Snapshot
- Auction appearances are rare, but when they do surface, values tend to hover in the **£20,000–£35,000** range depending on condition and originality.
- Appreciation has been modest, with no major spikes in recent years—though its obscurity could make it a sleeper if rediscovered by collectors.
If you're investing with your heart and enjoy the thrill of owning something few others have, the Clipper delivers. But if you're chasing predictable returns, it’s more of a passion project than a portfolio cornerstone.
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Clubs
There are Trident owner clubs that cater to enthusiasts in Northern Ireland. One notable club is the **Trident & Rocket 3 Owners Club (TR3OC)**, which is dedicated to promoting the use of BSA & Triumph push-rod engine triples. They organize events, rallies, and provide a platform for members to connect and share their passion for these classic motorcycles.
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