1969-76 Triumph TR6

Market Snapshot

At the beginning of the 1960's, Triumph was one of the largest sports car makers in the world. In ten year's time, they were on the defensive everywhere, especially from the onslaught of cheap, reliable, and more technically advanced alternatives from Japan.

A clean and attractive restyle by Karmann and a smooth, torquey inline-six did wonders to extend the life of the dated TR4/250, but even this was recognized as too little, too late. Still, today those shortcomings mean little, and the motor, those big tires, the exhaust note, and a top that goes down make this a pleasant sporting cruiser.

The dual stromberg 2.5 liter OHV pushrod six makes a bit over 100hp and is competent, but not particularly impressive other than for its smoothness. The 4-speed manual is precise; overdrive was available and is welcome at speed. Handling is good as long as the road is smooth, but a stiff, short-travel suspension bounces occupants around pretty good on the rough stuff. Modern suspension upgrades (including tube shocks) are available--they work wonders.

Not much changed during the 1969-76 lifetime of the TR6: the early vinyl dash gave way to wood, gauges pointed up instead of down, big, fat bumper guards satisfied U.S. bumper regulations and the Union Jack showed up on the rear quarter panel.

These are pretty simple cars, parts are not a problem, and there is a good supply of turnkey examples. The drivetrains are fairly robust and not difficult to rebuild. Look out for the hidden tin worm (especially at suspension mounting points) and anything to do with the rear end.

The dash was largely unchanged during the run, though vinyl did give way to wood.

The smooth and torquey six was no powerhouse, but enough to keep things interesting.

Like the Union Jack itself, the TR6 was a reminder that the glory days were gone.

The Market

Prices have been moving up only for the good cars. Look for this to continue -- the six and attractive styling differentiate it in the affordable British roadster market. The TR6's fun quotient and handsome looks will always attract new fans -- and buyers.

Current Values

[an error occurred while processing this directive]

(C) Copyright 2005- VMR International, Inc. All rights reserved. This article first appeared in the December 2005 issue of Collector Car Market Review.