1972 Triumph TR6 Information and History

The Triumph TR6 was introduced in 1969 as a replacement for the TR5/TR250. The TR6 featured similar running gear components and chassis as its predecessor but incorporated new external styling. The updated styling, courtesy of Karmann of Germany, allowed for more cargo capacity in the rear of the vehicle when compared with previous models. The doors and the center section remained unchanged from the TR4 and TR5 models. The interior comfort and drivability of the TR6 made it a highly successful British sports car. It was similar to the TR4 and TR5 with quality trim and a walnut dash.

The TR6 was fitted with a 2498 cc, six-cylinder, inline engine. The European fuel-injected version of the engine was capable of producing around 150 horsepower, while the US carbureted variant produced 104 horsepower. In 1972, the engine was de-tuned to 125 horsepower for the purpose of creating a smoother ride for city driving.

The TR6 used a synchromesh, four-speed gearbox and was fitted with overdrive that worked on third and fourth gear.

Throughout its lifespan, many alterations were performed on the car including interior and exterior styling and mechanical changes. In 1973, for example, the European engine was de-tuned to produce 125 horsepower; the purpose was to make the ride smoother through the use of camshaft alterations. During that same year, an air dam was placed below the bumper.

A detachable hardtop was optional equipment on the TR6. This allowed for driving in all weather conditions. An overdrive transmission was also available as options equipment.

In mid-1976, production of the TR6 ceased. During its production run, over 94,500 examples were produced of which, more than 86,200 units made their way to the US.

Roadster
Chassis Num: CC 79482 U

This 1972 Triumph TR6 Roadster was offered for sale at the 2007 Christies auction of 'Exceptional Motor Cars at the Monterey Jet Center.' It is yellow with brown leather interior and black top. Power is from a six-cylinder engine with pushrod overhead valves and two Stromberg carburetors. The 106 horsepower is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox. There are hydraulically operated disc in the front and drums in the rear.

The TR6 was the final iteration of a long line of open two-seater cars that were sold at a very reasonable price. The TR6 has a redesigned Kamm-type tail, flatter hood, additional front overhang, and a center badge.

This example has been restored to its original specification. Most of its history has been lost to time, but it is believed to have spent its very early life in Canada. It has an owner repaint, newer convertible top and tonneau cover, and period correct tires. It was estimated to sell for $20,000 - $25,000. At auction, it failed to find an interested buyer willing to satisfy the vehicles reserve.

The Triumph TR6 was produced from 1969 through 1976 with about 94,619 examples produced with most destined for the United States. This became the Triumph's best selling vehicle in history. It was powered by a 2498 cc straight-six cylinder engine that produced just over 105 horsepower. The steering was by a rack-and-pinion unit.

The interior was rather luxurious with its bucket seats and wooden dashboard. It was a true and refined sports car that continued on the proud and prosperous tradition of the TR series.

The Triumph TR6 was basically an updated version of the TR5, which itself was basically a TR4A with a beefy pushrod six-cylinder engine in place of a four. The TR5 had a new fuel-injection (PI for Petrol Injection) system which did not fully comply with U.S. emission standards. So in place of the TR5 PI version with its 150 horsepower, the US received a twin-carburetor TR250 model which produced 104 horsepower.

The 2.5-liter twin-carb engine would be used for the TR6 and mated to a four-speed gearbox. The exterior received mild updates courtesy of Karmann of Germany. The rear featured a chopped-off Kamm tail that had adequate space for luggage. The front was longer and the grille was wider. The removable, optional hardtop was updated with a more angular design.

The TR6 remained in production for seven years with few changes along the way. Perhaps the biggest improvement was in 1973, an updated camshaft. This gave the vehicle better low-speed tractability and improved its idle. That same year, an optional Laycock electric overdrive also became available.

During the early 1970s, the US became more safety conscious and strict rules were made for vehicles. To comply, the TR7 gained large, black bumper guards for 1973.

Production of the TR6 continued through mid-1976 when the newly introduced TR7 took over the legendary TR name. It would, however, not generate the enthusiasm or sales as its TR6 sibling.

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