Triumph TR7: The Sports Car That Still Turns Heads

The Triumph TR7 is a iconic sports car that has been a staple of British motoring since its introduction in 1974. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and agile handling, it's no wonder that this car has remained a beloved classic among enthusiasts and collectors. In this article, we'll delve into the history, design, and features of the Triumph TR7, as well as its current market value and collectibility.

The Triumph TR7 was the third generation of Triumph's TR series, which was introduced in the 1950s. The TR7 was designed to be a more modern and aerodynamic version of its predecessors, with a sleeker body and a more powerful engine. The car was powered by a 2.5-liter inline-six engine, which produced 140 horsepower and could accelerate from 0-60mph in just 8.5 seconds. The TR7 was also equipped with a range of standard features, including a four-speed manual transmission, disc brakes, and a comfortable interior with a range of luxury options.

The Triumph TR7 was a major departure from Triumph's previous designs, which were often characterized by their boxy and utilitarian appearance. The TR7, on the other hand, was designed to be a stylish and sophisticated sports car, with a curved and aerodynamic body that was inspired by the designs of the 1960s. The car's design was influenced by the work of Haynes Cars, a renowned design studio that had worked on several high-profile car projects, including the MG Midget and the MG B.

One of the key features of the Triumph TR7 was its powerful engine, which was designed to provide a thrilling driving experience. The 2.5-liter inline-six engine was a significant departure from the TR4's 2.2-liter inline-four engine, which produced just 130 horsepower. The TR7's engine was also equipped with a range of performance-enhancing features, including a high-lift camshaft and a performance exhaust system.

Design and Features

Interior

The interior of the Triumph TR7 was designed to be comfortable and luxurious, with a range of features that were typical of high-end sports cars of the time. The cabin was trimmed in a range of materials, including leather, vinyl, and wood, and featured a range of standard equipment, including a floor-mounted gearshift, a full-length rear seat, and a range of luxury options such as a sunroof and a wooden trim package.

Exterior

The exterior of the Triumph TR7 was designed to be sleek and aerodynamic, with a curved and sloping roofline that was inspired by the designs of the 1960s. The car's body was made from steel, with a range of standard colors, including white, silver, and red. The TR7 also featured a range of performance-enhancing features, including a performance suspension and a power-assisted steering system.

Technical Specifications

• Engine: 2.5-liter inline-six
• Horsepower: 140
• Torque: 165 lb-ft
• Transmission: 4-speed manual
• Drive type: Rear-wheel drive
• Top speed: 115mph
• 0-60mph: 8.5 seconds
• Fuel economy: 20-25mpg

Customization Options

The Triumph TR7 was a highly customizable car, with a range of options available to owners who wanted to personalize their vehicle. These options included a range of engine upgrades, including a performance exhaust system and a high-lift camshaft. Owners could also choose from a range of interior trim options, including leather, vinyl, and wood.

Market Value and Collectibility

The Triumph TR7 is a highly collectible car, with a strong following among enthusiasts and collectors. The car's rarity and historic significance, combined with its sleek design and powerful engine, make it a highly sought-after classic. The current market value of the Triumph TR7 varies depending on the condition, mileage, and originality of the vehicle, but prices can range from $10,000 to over $50,000.

Current Market Value

• Low-mileage, well-maintained models: $20,000 - $40,000
• Average-mileage models: $10,000 - $30,000
• High-mileage or restoration models: $5,000 - $20,000

Top-Condition Models

Some of the top-condition models of the Triumph TR7 include:

• 1975 TR7 2500 SC: This model features a range of upgrades, including a performance exhaust system and a high-lift camshaft.
• 1977 TR7 2500: This model is a rare example of a high-mileage TR7, with just 120,000 miles on the clock.
• 1974 TR7 2500: This model is a highly sought-after collector's item, with a strong following among enthusiasts.

Maintenance and Repair

The Triumph TR7 is a relatively low-maintenance car, with a range of features that make it easy to keep running. The car's engine is designed to be durable and long-lasting, with a range of performance-enhancing features that help to minimize wear and tear. However, like any classic car, the TR7 requires regular maintenance to keep it running in top condition.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to keep the Triumph TR7 running in top condition. This includes tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements. Owners should also keep a close eye on the car's electrical system, which can be prone to faults if not properly maintained.

Common Problems

Some common problems that can affect the Triumph TR7 include:

• Engine overheating: This can be caused by a range of factors, including low coolant levels or a faulty thermostat