Triumph Stag

ENGINE 2997cc/V8/OHC POWER 145bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 167lb ft@3500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 117mph 0-60MPH 9.6sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 20-24mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual + o/d MoT May 2018 ODOMETER 45,813 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This particular Stag is a real joy. Triumph’s 3.0-litre V8 is creamy smooth and this is one of the best. Although not supercar fast, the power is a solid thump of torque that keeps pushing as you accelerate, feeling faster than perhaps it really is. With an easy clutch pedal, the gearchange is a fairly long and sturdy throw to each corner but drops in fine to each one, that long shift reminding you that this is a cruiser not a sports car. Overdrive on third and fourth makes long journeys and high speeds more pleasant and economical. Likewise, the ride is soft, though there’s not too much roll, allowing you to press on along B-roads. With power steering the wheel turns easily, though there’s enough feedback to know what the wheels are doing. The brakes are strong and stop the car well.

BODYWORK CHECK

The Stag was fitted with a pair of new wings and painted two years ago. It was a superb job, looking better than when it left the factory. There’s not a stone chip to been seen on the perfect paint and the pinstripes are faultless. It also received new chrome bumpers and a new hood, which folds correctly. The alloy wheels are in excellent shape and have new-looking Nankang 185/R14/90 tyres fitted. The glass is tinted and looks good, and the lamp lenses have a bright, clear new look to them. Only the fuel cap isn’t perfect.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The interior is stunning. The seats – believed to be original – look like new and show no signs of wear. The carpets are spotless and the wooden dashboard and centre console are perfect. Electric front windows and a period Pioneer stereo system are fitted, with an FM radio/cassette deck in the dash, amplifier under the glove box and matching speakers in the otherwise faultless door cards. The only fault worth mentioning is a fingernail mark in the dashboard top near the steering wheel.

UNDER THE BONNET

The engine bay has been maintained very well, with no signs of damage or corrosion, while the spotlessly clean V8 idles quietly. It has a stainless steel exhaust and electric fan installed, and headlight relays have been added, as well as a Lumenition electronic ignition module in the bulkhead. The history file contains MoTs dating back to 1978 and the original Passport to Service is present, suggesting that the low mileage is genuine.

THE CCW VIEW

In short, this a perfect driving Stag with a glorious V8 and an immaculate body and interior. Forget the overheating woes from the 1970s – a good Stag today is a great car and in our opinion this is one of the best. Add in that great manual gearbox and you’ve got ultimate B-road enjoyment. Matt Richardson