TRIUMPH TR6
Need a six-pot roadster, but can’t quite stretch to an Austin-Healey or TR5? Now in its 49th year, the TR6 is a fine alternative. And an interesting one, too…
‘The racing car with a difference. You can afford it.’ That was Triumph’s slightly patronising tone when advertising its handsome, Karmann-crafted TR6. Its cost of around £1350 would be £21,000 in 2018, which is much less than what some sellers are asking. Values continue to flourish, but the TR6 remains attainable compared to the big ’Healeys and its immediate predecessor, the TR5 (which can hit over £60k).
91,850 were made – significantly more than any preceding TR – and as usual, most were exported. With over 3000 on the road in the UK today, and a further 1200 or so registered as on SORN, buyers can afford to be choosy.
We’re blessed with a great range of competing specialists to choose from, and a feverish social scene for TR owners. TR6s are a regular sight at events throughout the land – tr-register.co.uk/events is worth keeping an eye on. Spares availability is decent, too, with plenty of new parts being made.
Traditionally there’s been much in favour of choosing a US import over a UK car; lack of rust being the key motivator. However, now that most of the best imports have endured a few British winters, and LHD cars enjoy an increasingly international market, the playing field is more level.
US cars deliver much less thrust thanks to a lazier camshaft and SU carburettors rather than mechanical fuel injection, so check whether this spec has been retained. Enthusiasts carrying out a top-end rebuild often take the opportunity to adopt UKspec, though carbs are sometimes preferred due to the notorious temperament of the Lucas injection system. If you’re planning to exploit the car’s full performance – as most owners do – it’s the earlier UK spec you want ( known as ‘CP’ up to 1973), with 150bhp on tap.