🏎️ Triumph Classic Cars

The last straight-six Triumph TR. 2.5-litre inline six, strong performance and classic looks.

The Triumph Spitfire was produced from 1962 to 1980 and is one of the most affordable and accessible British classic sports cars. Based on the Herald saloon chassis, the Spitfire uses a backbone frame with an all-independent suspension. The detachable body makes major repair work considerably easier than on monocoque cars. The 1147cc, 1296cc and final 1493cc engines provide adequate rather than exhilarating performance, but the light weight and responsive chassis make for entertaining driving. Early cars with swing-axle rear suspension require careful driving — the Rotoflex coupling conversion significantly improves behaviour. Mk4 and 1500 cars are more refined. The Spitfire Club and numerous specialists ensure excellent parts supply.

The Triumph TR7 and TR8 represent the final chapter of the TR sports car story. The wedge-shaped body, designed by Harris Mann, divided opinion on launch in 1975 but has since aged well. The TR7 used a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 105bhp in UK specification. The rarer TR8 was fitted with the Rover V8 engine producing 133bhp, making it a genuine performance car. Both models are available as coupe and convertible. The TR8 is increasingly collectible while the TR7 remains an affordable entry into the classic Triumph world. Build quality issues plagued early cars but later examples from the Coventry and Solihull plants are significantly better. Parts availability is good through the TR Register and specialist suppliers.

The Triumph Stag is one of the most visually stunning British cars of the 1970s. Powered by a unique 3.0-litre V8 engine developed specifically for the car, the Stag offered genuine grand touring performance in a stylish 2+2 convertible body. The Stag was launched in 1970 and produced until 1977. The V8 engine has an undeserved poor reliability reputation — most problems stem from overheating caused by neglect rather than fundamental design flaws. A properly maintained Stag with a rebuilt cooling system and correct coolant is a reliable and enjoyable classic. Many owners fit a Rover V8 as an alternative. The distinctive T-bar roll cage and optional hardtop make the Stag one of the most elegant open-top classics of its era.