The 1974 Triumph Stag driven by James May in the final episode of The Grand Tour is currently being auctioned on the Collecting Cars platform. As of the latest reports, bidding for the vehicle has reached over 25,750 British pounds, a significant increase from its starting price of 100 pounds, Novinky reported.
The Triumph Stag’s Journey to Auction
The vehicle, featured in the September 2024 special "One for the Road," served as James May’s primary transport during the trio’s final expedition through Zimbabwe. Despite the Triumph Stag’s historical reputation for mechanical unreliability, the car completed the demanding African journey without major technical failures.
Following the conclusion of filming, May entrusted the roadster to The Smallest Cog, the workshop operated by Richard Hammond. The team at the shop restored the car to its original purple paint finish. Modifications made for the expedition remain present, including a speedometer sourced from a first-generation Stag, a modern Bluetooth-enabled audio system, and contemporary Hankook Optimo tires fitted to 14-inch wheels.
Association with Series Finale Drives Vehicle Market Value
While the vehicle has logged 83,368 miles—approximately 134,000 kilometers—its market value is driven primarily by its association with the final episode of the series. The auction on Collecting Cars reflects high collector interest, with the price scaling rapidly during the closing stages of the sale.
This auction follows a broader trend of the former The Grand Tour hosts liquidating their project vehicles. Jeremy Clarkson has already placed his Lancia Monte Carlo from the same special up for auction. To date, Richard Hammond remains the only member of the original trio to retain the car he drove in the finale, a Ford Capri.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sale
Why is the Triumph Stag from the finale attracting high bids? The car’s primary value lies in its provenance as a vehicle used in the final episode of The Grand Tour.
What specific mechanical condition is the car in?
The car underwent a full restoration of its body and engine before the filming of the Zimbabwe special. It is equipped with a 3.0-liter V8 engine and has been serviced at The Smallest Cog workshop to return it to its original aesthetic specification.
Are other cars from the final episode available for purchase?
Yes, Jeremy Clarkson’s Lancia Monte Carlo from the "One for the Road" special has also entered the auction market. Richard Hammond has not announced plans to sell his Ford Capri.
James May auctions iconic Triumph Stag featured in Grand Tour finale https://t.co/TJYJTXMLt4
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