Home › Triumph › Triumph TR6 1970

Triumph TR6 1970 review

Convertible Petrol
Triumph TR6 1970 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Lothar Spurzem (CC BY-SA 2.0 de), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Triumph TR6 is the last of the traditional hairy-chested British roadsters - a Karmann-styled bruiser with a 2.5-litre straight-six up front and rear-wheel drive. Built from 1969 to 1976, it was Triumph's answer to the MGB and the Datsun 240Z, and UK cars got the full-fat 150 bhp fuel-injected PI engine.

With its squared-off Karmann nose and tail, the TR6 looks like nothing else on the road. It is fast in a straight line, gloriously vocal, and supported by one of the best owners' clubs in the business - which is why it remains a default answer to the which-classic-should-I-buy question.

UK price from: £15,500

Specifications

Engine2.5-litre inline-6 (2,498 cc)
Power150 bhp @ 5,500 rpm (UK PI)
Torque164 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
0-60 mph8.2 seconds
Top speed119 mph
Fuel economy~21 mpg
Transmission4-speed manual with overdrive
DriveRear-wheel drive
Production years1969-1976
Kerb weight1,130 kg

Features

  • 2.5-litre straight-six with Lucas mechanical fuel injection
  • 150 bhp in UK PI specification - the most powerful TR ever
  • Karmann-designed body with distinctive squared-off ends
  • Four-speed manual with optional Laycock overdrive
  • Independent rear suspension for sure-footed handling
  • Huge club and specialist support across the UK

Common parts & prices

PartPrice (GBP)Notes
Front brake pad set£35Standard road pads
Clutch kit£150Cover, plate and release bearing
PI metering unit reconditioning£450Specialist rebuild of Lucas PI unit
Stainless steel exhaust system£400Full system with standard manifold
Water pump£65Cooling system service item
Propshaft UJ joint£25Per joint, greaseable type

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

  • 150 bhp gives genuine 120 mph performance
  • Superb parts availability - almost everything is remanufactured
  • Strong owners' club and specialist network
  • Charismatic, rugged character that suits the UK climate

Cons

  • Lucas PI system needs a specialist to set up properly
  • Chassis and trailing-arm mounts rot if neglected
  • US-spec carburettor cars make only 104 bhp - check the spec
  • Prices of the best cars have moved beyond casual budgets

Frequently asked questions

How much is a Triumph TR6 worth?
Good usable TR6s sell for £13,000-£18,000, with the very best restored examples reaching £25,000-plus. Sound projects start around £7,000.
What is the difference between PI and US-spec TR6s?
UK PI cars have Lucas fuel injection and 150 bhp; US cars used carburettors and made just 104 bhp. The PI car is far more desirable - verify the specification.
Where does the TR6 rust?
Chassis outriggers, rear trailing-arm mounts, sills, front wings and the boot floor. A solid chassis is everything - repairs are costly.
Is the Lucas fuel injection reliable?
When set up by a specialist it is reliable and gives superb throttle response. Neglected systems cause poor running - budget for a specialist tune.
Can I use a TR6 every day?
Many owners do in summer. It is simple to maintain with superb parts support, though weather protection is basic and security is minimal.

Owner reviews

No owner reviews yet — be the first!

Write your review

Related cars