Triumph TR6
The last of the traditional body-on-frame Triumph roadsters — brawnier and more muscular than the sports cars that came before it.
Squaring off the curves of the TR4/TR5 with sharp, Karmann-styled bodywork front and rear, the TR6 paired traditional British roadster construction with a torquey inline six — giving it a more muscular character than its four-cylinder British rivals. It was, by a wide margin, the best-selling TR to that point, particularly in the crucial US market.
History
Introduced for 1969, the TR6 kept the TR5's chassis and 2.5-liter inline-six but wrapped it in new, squared-off bodywork designed by Karmann — a relatively low-cost styling refresh that gave the car a tougher, more contemporary look without a full platform redesign.
US-market cars used carburetors rather than the UK cars' Lucas fuel injection, trading some power for reliability and emissions compliance — a common pattern for British sports cars sold in America during this period.
Production continued through 1976, by which point the TR6 was one of the last traditional body-on-frame roadsters left on the market, most rivals having already moved to unibody construction — a distinction that gives it a particular following among enthusiasts today.
Notable Versions
UK/Euro fuel-injected cars
Lucas mechanical fuel injection gave meaningfully more power than the US carbureted cars — genuinely quicker and more sought after.
Overdrive-equipped cars
A desirable factory option improving both highway cruising and fuel economy — worth confirming function during a purchase.
Early (1969–71) vs. late (1973–76) bumpers
Later US cars gained larger impact bumpers to meet regulations; early slim-bumper cars are generally preferred for their cleaner look.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Rust in the frame outriggers, sills, and floor
The TR6's separate chassis rusts in well-documented locations — a specialist inspection of the frame itself, not just the visible bodywork, is essential.
Confirm fuel system type matches the car's claimed origin
US-spec carbureted cars are sometimes represented as UK fuel-injected imports — verify against the data plate and known production records.
Inspect the differential and rear trailing arm bushings
Common wear points that affect handling and are often deferred by owners on cars that haven't seen recent mechanical attention.
Check electrical grounds and wiring condition
Lucas electrics have a reputation for a reason — verify lights, gauges, and overdrive (if equipped) all function before buying.
Budget realistically for a full respray
The TR6's flat body panels show imperfections readily; a proper paint job is a significant line item most project cars still need.
Quick Specs
- Engine
- 2.5L SOHC I6
- Horsepower
- 104 hp (US, carbureted) – 150 hp (UK, fuel injected)
- Wheelbase
- 88 in
- Weight
- approx. 2,400–2,600 lbs
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual (overdrive optional)
- 0–60 (US)
- approx. 10–11 seconds
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Triumph TR6 For Sale
No listings currently available — check back soon
🔍
No listings right now
Set up an alert and we'll email you when a Triumph TR6 is listed.