As featured in November's newsletter we have Charles Squirrels 1973 Triumph Dolomite Sprint as our December's car of the Month and final car of 2025...
"Charles first purchased this Sprint in 1979, keeping it for a short while before selling it in 1981.
Originally registered in May 1973, this car is one of the very first 1,000 chassis built. Back in those days, the Sprint was something truly special — featuring a unique slant 16-valve 2.0-litre engine producing 127 bhp. It was quick, advanced for its time, and a three-time British Saloon Car Championship–winning model — a true “3-litre eater.”
Charles always regretted selling his Sprint, and at the NEC in 2011 he enquired with the Dolomite Club to see if his old car was still around. To his delight, it was — living near Castle Combe Circuit, where it had become a regular track car.
After much persistence and effort, Charles finally managed to buy it back in 2012. By then, it was worse for wear and in need of serious TLC. Since then, countless hours of hard work have transformed the car.
Now, thirteen years later, the Sprint has been virtually rebuilt and extensively modified. In September 2025, at the Triumph Dolomite Club International Rally near Basingstoke, it won “Best Modified 2025” out of 62 cars — a well-deserved recognition. The images below show a very happy Charles, the impressive engine bay, and the winning trophy.
Well done, Charles!
Charles says the car is fantastic to drive — it handles beautifully and delivers serious performance, remarkable for a 52-year-old machine. Today, it’s safer and even more potent than when it left the factory, yet it retains that unmistakable Triumph Dolomite Sprint feel and character.
It’s a true pleasure to own — again.
This bright yellow Sprint is often spotted at Sadcase meets, when Charles isn’t behind the wheel of his Mini."
