Lot 265: Triumph TR6 Roadster

Its sports cars having relied exclusively on four-cylinder engines for the preceding decade-and-a-half, Triumph turned to six cylinders to extend the life and improve the performance of the much loved 'TR' series. Similar to the preceding four-cylinder TR4A - the first TR with independent rear suspension - but with Triumph's 2.5-litre, six-cylinder engine installed in place of the old 2.1-litre four, the TR5 was produced during the 1968 model year only (October 1967 to November 1968) pending the arrival of the TR6. Restyled for 1969 by Karmann of Osnabruck, the TR6 sported a full-width nose and squared-off tail. Under the skin the chassis remained basically the same as its independently-rear-suspended TR4A ancestor's while the 2.5-litre Lucas fuel-injected power unit was unchanged. Handling was improved over that of the TR5 courtesy of wider wheels and a front anti-roll bar. Good for 120mph with acceleration to match, the six-cylinder TRs are arguably the most exciting Triumphs ever made, continuing to enjoy an enthusiastic following world-wide and an excellent network of spare parts and service providers. The superb TR6 we offer received a full restoration to a very high standard in 1985, its colour scheme being changed from cream to blue in the process while other renovation included an engine rebuild, interior re-trim in back leather and new chromework. Much enjoyed by the owner, the car received further tidying in 2000 before being sold. Passing through the hands of two further keepers, it was acquired by the current vendor in August 2008 and has been shown regularly at classic vehicle shows, winning countless awards. One of the best of its kind currently available, 'XEB 843L' is described as in generally very good/excellent condition, is 'on the button' and comes with current MoT and Swansea V5.