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CLASSIC WITH POP-UP HEADLAMPS
84 Classic Car Mart Spring 2016
After the six-cylinder power and open-top appeal of the Triumph TR6, the
announcement of a four-cylinder hardtop as the next-generation TR was
something of a shock to traditionalists in 1975. In fairness to Triumph,
there was always meant to be a full convertible version of the new TR7; due
to issues with American safety legislation and a lack of development funds,
however, this derivative didn’t appear until 1979, by which time the TR7
had just two years left to run.
The TR7 coupe was a more likeable machine than its early reputation
suggested, its low-slung driving position helping to make it feel sporty.
The TR7 was stuck with just 105bhp throughout its life, mainly because
the long-awaited 16-valve version (using the Dolomite Sprint engine) never
appeared, and yet its performance was usefully lively.
Most exciting of the TR7 family was, of course, the 3.5-litre V8-engined
TR8, developed specifi cally for the USA. But its late arrival in 1980 meant
its success was limited, and in the end fewer than 2,500 were produced.
A total of 112,000 TR7s rolled off the production line. Or rather, off
three different lines, for the production facility at Speke (Liverpool) was
to give way to Coventry, which in turn was dropped for Solihull in the end.
Typical of its era, the TR7 suffered from poor early reliability and iffy build
quality before evolving into a competent and dependable machine. And
yet its potential was never fully realised, with plans for a fastback coupe
version never coming to fruition.
Nowadays, the TR7 is something of a ’70s design classic and, if you buy
the best and latest example you can possibly afford, it’s also a pleasure
to own – and to drive. MacPherson front struts and a live back axle give
good handling, which means the TR7 driver can make the most of the car’s
performance. Best news of all, however, is the sheer value for money on
offer, with excellent examples of the hardtop available for £3000-3500;
even the more sought after convertible rarely tops the £5000 mark unless
it’s truly exceptional, making the TR7 one of the most affordable sports
cars of its era.
TRIUMPH TR7
ONE TO BUY
1982 TRIUMPH TR7 CONVERTIBLE, £4995: First registered in ’82,
this is a late-model example of the ragtop TR7 – and with a genuine
mileage of just 59,000, it’s seen relatively little use. Its excellent
paintwork is original, and the car is described as rust-free. It’s said to
be superb mechanically, with its mileage being confi rmed by all of its
previous MoT certifi cates and other paperwork. If an original rather than
restored car appeals to you, this one looks a tempting proposition. Call
07502 229616 or check out the website at http://www.taclassics.co.uk.