Lot 014: 1972 Triumph Tr6

Launched in January 1969, the TR6 featured a very clever reworking of the TR4/5 bodyshell which had been in production since 1961. By combining a recessed rear panel (similar to that found on the Michelotti-penned Triumph 2000 and 1300 saloon models) with a new full-width, headlamp-embracing radiator grille, coachbuilders Karmann gave the TR6 a look that was bang up to date (but which cost Triumph very little). Utilising the same 2498cc fuel-injected straight-six engine which had debuted in the TR5 some fifteen months earlier, UK and European specification cars boasted some 150bhp and spirited 120mph performance. Although, peak power fell to 125bhp with the adoption of a 'milder' camshaft in 1973, contemporary road testers found that outright speed was only slightly affected. However, those TR6s destined for the American market eschewed fuel injection in favour of a more emissions friendly twin carburettor set-up developing a quoted 126bhp. Very much a traditional British sports car, the TR6 was characterized by decent acceleration, potent brakes and a firm ride (while, the presence of all-round independent suspension was a welcome bonus). Produced until 1975 it was the last of the traditional TRs, the replacement TR7 being a very different breed of car. Finished in red with grey seats and red carpets, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. According to an accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Production Trace Certificate, chassis number 'CC/81100-U' was built on 22nd March 1972 and dispatched to dealer Genser & Forman Inc of New Jersey, USA six days later. Thought to have been repatriated during the 1990s, the two-seater was subsequently converted from left- to right-hand drive (while, it retains the American specification twin-carburettor set-up). Riding on correct-type steel wheels, the TR6 is said to have covered "a little over 1,000 miles since May 2002" and to "drive very well". Eligible for historic class (free) road tax, this nicely presented Triumph is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2009.