Triumph TR7

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Triumph TR7

WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE?

The TR7 is more than the last of the TRs, it represented an entire break from tradition to cater for 1970’s motoring. Because of its milder – and meeker – manner, the TR7 was more a replacement for the GT6 than the TR6 but what you get in return is a lot more civility and comfort plus secure handling and roadholding. TR7s are still cheap although values are rising as enthusiasts begin to appreciate this misunderstood sports car.

WHAT CAN I GET?

Unlike the GT6 there’s more choice of models and styles based around the coupé and the fine looking convertible. There’s also the option of automatic and five-speed manual transmissions. Finally, for those yearning for more muscular power than that Dolomite-derived engine could muster, there’s the Rover-powered V8 models, either homespun conversions (known as the TR7-V8) or the factory made, Big Healey-like TR8. You may also unearth Dolomite Sprint-engined models but, like the TR8, only a handful of official models were made meaning most are afterthoughts – don’t be hoodwinked into paying over the odds for a fake factory car!

WHAT ARE THEY LIKE TO DRIVE?

The TR7 is a world away from the earlier TRs to drive yet is more than a Dolomite in sports car clothes because the chassis and suspension were all new. While that 2-litre 8v Dolomite engine hardly sounds sporty, it goes well enough and is as quick as an average TR6 while the handling is in another class. If a good ride matters to you then a TR7 is far more comfortable than a GT6 and the same can be said for the interior layout. V8-powered TR7s are great and they have a Big Healey flavour about them; TR8s used the same 135bhp Range Rover power that afflicted the MGB GT V8 where as converted cars invariably used the 155-160bhp engines originating from Rover saloons. Most will also welcome the slick SD1 five-speed transmission (optional for 1977 and standard two years later) for its longer legs but original four-speeders are slightly quicker and becoming quite collectible.

WHAT ARE THEY LIKE TO LIVE WITH?

Hardly hard core the TR7 is an easygoing, 30mpg sports car that can be used daily if you want to. This TR is as well catered for by specialists as the earlier models plus Rimmer Bros markets a complete body restoration kit that comes with sills, wings, etc costing £1350 – important as TR7s rust badly. On the other hand, all are designed to accept unleaded petrol.

VERDICT

The TR7 was never intended as a direct replacement for the hairy-chested TRs – you only have to drive one to appreciate that! But they are demonstrably superior to an MGB and remain cheap as chips.