LONDON.- This white Triumph TR4 police chase car was the stuff of nightmares to Essex drivers in the 1960s - for anyone driving recklessly or speeding.

The British police often used sports cars as pursuit vehicles in past decades, Daimler Darts and cars like this Triumph. Today, sadly for the police, it is more usually a high performance BMW estate with strengthened suspension and beefed up brakes. Italy of course, where things are done differently, you will still see cars gifted by Lamborghini in police livery. Almost worth it to have a speed chase with the Italian Carabinieri for the story it would provide.

The H&H Classics TR4 has been the subject of a comprehensive restoration by Marque experts Revington TR. It comes complete with working signs, Winkworth bell, air horns and spot lamps, a VHF Pye Vanguard radio in the boot, extended wing mirrors, Dunlop RS5 road speed tyres all round, plus overdrive and a tonneau cover. It still carries its original registration number.

Roger Nowell of H&H Classics, says: “This fabulous TR4 was supplied to the Southend-on-Sea Constabulary in May 1962 as a fast pursuit vehicle. It comes with pictures of it while in service with two officers seated, copy of the Police book, "advanced driving explained "which it is featured on the cover with Inspector W H Jobson , the author and various letters and emails from the officers who drove the car whilst in service.”

The car received a comprehensive restoration by Revignton TR at which point all the correct Police items were refitted. In 2013, the TR Register confirmed a restoration of this magnitude would cost in excess of £60,000. This is surely a unique opportunity to acquire a TR4 Police car with superb history.

Code named 'Zest', the TR4 was introduced in 1961 as a replacement for the TR3A. Though based on the chassis and drivetrain of its much-loved predecessor it cut a far more modern dash, thanks to an all-new Michelotti-styled body.

Power was provided by Triumph's proven OHV four-cylinder engine. The capacity was, however, increased to 2138cc. Other mechanical updates included a wider track front and rear, rack and pinion steering and an all-synchromesh gearbox.

The optional overdrive was now made to operate on second and third gears as well as top. There was also the option of a unique hardtop with fixed glass rear window, integral rollbar and removable centre section. A total of 40,253 TR4s were manufactured between 1961 and January 1965.