Triumph TR6

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The Triumph TR6 comes from a long line of lusty front engine British sports cars that started with the TR2 and gradually evolved into the short-lived diamond that was the TR5.

Restyled for 1969 by Karmann of Osnabruck, the TR6 gained a full-width nose and a squared-off tail. Under the new skin, the chassis remained basically the same as its independently-rear-suspended TR5 predecessor but handling was improved courtesy of wider wheels and a front anti-roll bar. The 150bhp 2.5-litre Lucas fuel-injected straight-six power unit was initially unchanged, but was detuned to 125bhp from 1973 onwards to meet stricter emissions regulations. Even in later detuned spec it could still hit 60mph in just 9.5 seconds with a top speed of 116mph.

Loud, fast and punchy, the six-cylinder TRs are arguably the most exciting Triumphs ever made and by the time production ended in 1976, the TR6 had become the best-selling Triumph in history with more than 94,000 sold, over 90% of them to the US market. They continue to enjoy an enthusiastic following world-wide today, with an excellent network of spare parts and restoration specialists.

As the accompanying Heritage Certificate confirms, this TR6 was built in early June 1972 and despatched to Genser & Forman Inc of Union, New Jersey, USA. A LHD model in Sapphire Blue with a black Ambla interior, equipment included disc wheels, laminated widscreen, inertia reel seatbelts, a heater and 185-15 Goodyear Red Band tyres.

Nothing is known of the subsequent history of the car until it returned to the UK in July 1991 and was converted to RHD. The current owner acquired the car 10 years ago and has used it regularly, including touring around Europe. The car has been somewhat modified over the years including the fitment of more supportive Mazda MX-5 seats; Spax adjustable shock absorbers all round; new SU carb conversion; blue top tinted windscreen; overdrive gearbox; walnut dashboard; oil cooler; spin-off oil filter conversion; alloy rocker cover; Kenlowe fan; Hi-Torque starter motor and a stainless steel exhaust system.

The vendor states that while the chassis and floors are in very good condition, the body and paint are now in need of some attention here and there. He further states that the car runs and drives well and will have a new MOT in time for the sale.

Perfectly usable as is, this sensibly modified TR6 can be gradually improved over time as desired. With top examples now fetching in excess of £20k at auction, there should be plenty of room for manoeuvre at the modest guide price suggested.