Triumph TR6
ENGINE 2498cc/6-cyl/OHV POWER 125bhp@5000rpm TORQUE 146lb ft@3500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 116mph 0-60MPH 9.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 22-26mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual + o/d MoT 12 months ODOMETER 53,295 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Starting this TR6 reveals that it isn’t too happy at idle – it never cuts out, but never feels entirely comfortable either. Apply any throttle, however, and the engine instantly calms down, providing its significant power smoothly. It feels well planted and new tyres mean that it puts its power down well. The steering is direct, with no significant play. The clutch biting point feels a little low, but would probably adjust out. The gearbox isn’t especially smooth – which is normal – but feels tight and makes no untoward noises.
BODYWORK CHECK
The body and chassis look to be in very good condition. The only corrosion beyond surface rust is in a seam on the battery shelf. The paintwork is very good in the main, but there are a number of chips on the doors, particularly on the tops and in the seams with the wings. The doors fit really well, which can be difficult to get right on these separate chassis TRs. The hood is in good health, but there’s some minor clouding to the plastic rear window. The frame operates well, with only surface rust evident.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The non-standard seats have obviously been refurbished because the grey material is in fantastic condition and the foam is taut and firm. The dashboard has the original matt finish, rather than the popular aftermarket gloss or burr walnut treatment and is in such good condition that it may well have been reconditioned. The MotoLita three-spoke steering wheel is oversized and not of the best fit, but the correct Lucas dials are all working, despite the fact that the bezels are showing some flaking. The modern Sony sound system and 10 CD changer mounted in the boot look like they could be easily removed if required.
UNDER THE BONNET
The straight-six engine has seen regular use and regular maintenance. It’s no showstopper under the bonnet, but it’s honest enough, with a recently overhauled ignition system. There is an oil leak coming from the rocker gasket towards the rear of the engine, but the vendor says that this will be dealt with before sale. The car is still running on its original Lucas injection system, but a Bosch fuel pump should significantly improve reliability.
THE CCW VIEW
This well-sorted example of one of Triumph’s most coveted models is an excellent driver’s car. It needs a small amount of work to make it truly perfect, but we’re talking about diminishing returns here and you’d be replacing perfectly good components just to make things perfect. It’s an ideal candidate for regular use, being good enough to feel proud of, but not so good that you’d be afraid to use it.