Triumph TR6 (1968-1976)

 

The Triumph TR6 (1968–1976) is one of the most iconic models in Triumph’s TR series and remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts. Known for its rugged good looks, powerful engine, and exhilarating driving experience, the TR6 represents the pinnacle of the brand's sports car development in the 1960s and 1970s.

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Key Features & Highlights:

  • Engine: The TR6 was powered by a 2.5-liter (2498cc) inline-six engine, which produced around 106 horsepower in the earlier models and later increased to about 125 horsepower in the U.S. version. This engine offered a strong and smooth power delivery, with a top speed of around 120 mph (193 km/h) and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8 seconds. The TR6’s engine was known for its torque, making it a great car for both high-speed cruising and spirited drives.

  • Design: The TR6 was a significant departure from the TR4 and TR5, featuring a more muscular and aggressive appearance. The design was done by Karmann, the German coachbuilder, and it featured a more squared-off rear end, with prominent, bold lines. The front end retained the TR series' characteristic wide grille and twin headlights. The body was simple, with minimal chrome and a focus on clean lines, giving the car a more modern, no-nonsense look.

  • Performance & Handling: The TR6 was lauded for its excellent handling and road manners, benefiting from its robust chassis and well-engineered suspension. It used independent front suspension and a live rear axle, offering a solid balance between comfort and agility. The car was known for its sharp cornering ability and stable high-speed performance, making it a favorite for driving enthusiasts.

  • Interior & Comfort: The TR6’s interior was relatively simple but functional, with leather upholstery, a minimalist dashboard, and a classic, sporty feel. Unlike earlier models, the TR6 featured more comfortable seats and a roomier cabin. Despite its racing pedigree, the TR6 offered a relatively refined driving experience for long-distance cruising, though it still retained the essential no-frills character of a true roadster.

  • Production & Popularity: The TR6 was one of the most successful Triumph sports cars, with more than 94,000 units produced during its eight-year run. It was especially popular in the U.S. market, where British sports cars had a strong following in the 1960s and 1970s. The TR6's styling, performance, and relatively affordable price made it a direct competitor to other roadsters of the era, including the MGB and Alfa Romeo Spider.

  • Legacy: The TR6 is widely regarded as one of Triumph's best sports cars, striking a balance between performance, reliability, and style. Its powerful engine, combined with sharp handling, made it an enduring favorite among classic car enthusiasts. While it was eventually replaced by the Triumph TR7 in 1976, the TR6 continues to enjoy a strong following, particularly in vintage racing and car clubs.

Today, the TR6 is considered one of the most desirable British roadsters from the 1960s and 1970s. Its combination of powerful performance, classic styling, and enjoyable driving experience ensures its place as a true classic car.

 


 

1969 Triumph TR6

  • Engine: 2.5L inline-six, 106 hp (U.S.) / 125 hp (UK)
  • Transmission: 4-speed manual with optional overdrive
  • Styling: The car debuted with angular body styling, featuring a wide front grille and round headlights.
  • Significance: The TR6 replaced the TR5 and was the first in the series with the more modern and muscular design that became iconic.

1970 Triumph TR6

  • Changes: Minor updates to chrome trim and electrical systems.
  • Styling: Continued with the signature look introduced in 1969.
  • Engine: Same as 1969 but refined for smoother operation.
  • Features: Slight improvements in build quality.

1971 Triumph TR6

  • Gearbox Update: Introduction of a new 4-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive.
  • Performance: Engine output remained the same, but the driving experience was enhanced with the new gearbox.

1972 Triumph TR6

  • Bumper Update: Larger bumpers were introduced to meet new U.S. federal safety regulations.
  • Emissions: Changes to the carburetion system to meet tightening emissions standards in the U.S.

1973 Triumph TR6

  • Regulatory Changes: Larger bumpers and other changes were made to comply with safety regulations, resulting in slightly reduced performance.
  • Styling: The car's core styling remained unchanged, but minor adjustments to the interior and safety features were made.

1974 Triumph TR6

  • Federalization: U.S. models received more extensive modifications to meet stricter safety and emissions regulations.
  • Catalytic Converter: A catalytic converter was added in U.S. versions, further reducing engine output.
  • Bumpers: The car continued with the larger bumpers introduced in 1972.

1975 Triumph TR6

  • Performance: U.S. models lost more power due to the mandatory catalytic converter and emissions controls, dropping to around 88 hp.
  • Interior: Minor updates in materials and trim for better durability and comfort.

1976 Triumph TR6

  • End of Production: The final year of the TR6, which saw only minor improvements over earlier models.
  • Catalytic Converter: Continued use of the catalytic converter and other emission-related systems.
  • Legacy: The TR6 was phased out to make way for the TR7, a more modern, wedge-shaped design.

Summary of Key Features Across All Models:

  • Engine: The TR6 consistently used the 2.5L inline-six, with power varying between 106 hp (U.S.) and 125 hp (UK) due to emission laws.
  • Transmission: Initially a 4-speed manual with an optional overdrive; by 1971, the gearbox was refined for smoother shifting.
  • Bumpers: Changes to bumper size and design were driven by new U.S. safety regulations starting in 1973.
  • Design: The TR6 maintained a consistent, angular body style, with minor changes to chrome trim, interior materials, and safety features throughout the years.

The Triumph TR6 is cherished for its performance, style, and relatively simple mechanical design, making it a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts.