Rare AC Equipped Project: 1975 Triumph TR6
We have seen nearly one hundred examples of the Triumph TR6 over more than a decade at Barn Finds, but only a handful have featured air conditioning. This is another to add to the tally, and it isn’t just the A/C that adds makes it tempting. It is a rock-solid restoration candidate with a low odometer reading. Enthusiasts willing to undertake a DIY build will probably consider it an affordable potential project, especially considering the financial return it could provide. The TR6 is listed here on Craigslist in Braintree, Massachusetts. The seller has set their price at $12,500, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Pat L for spotting this British classic.
Triumph introduced the TR6 to its range in 1968 for the 1969 model year. By the time the last car rolled off the line in 1976, it had produced 94,619 examples of what I consider the most attractive vehicle to wear the “TR” badge. The seller indicates this car has been stored for an extended period. However, they don’t specify whether the period should be measured in months, years, or decades. The original owner ordered the car in Code 19 White, with this car also featuring a Snugtop hardtop clad in Black vinyl. It is unclear whether the vehicle has received any previous restoration work, but it is overdue for a refresh. The paint carries many imperfections, and some sections of this Triumph may need to be stripped to bare metal to achieve a satisfactory result. The buyer won’t need to touch the hardtop, and the panels only sport a few minor bumps. The best news is that this gem is said to be rock-solid. The photos are generally positive. However, there is one area of concern. The engine bay photo reveals a small area of what appears to be penetrating rust near the firewall on the passenger side. It might be the only problem, but it would be enough to motivate me to perform an in-person inspection. It may be an isolated occurrence, but it is better to play it safe. The wheels require refinishing but retain their correct centers and trim rings. One change I would make if this classic were in my workshop would be to scrap the front bumper over-riders. I know they were a legislative requirement, but I don’t believe using the word hideous to describe them would be out of place.
Traditional British sports cars have a reputation for modest engine power, and the TR6 was no exception. Its 2,498cc six produces 104hp and 142 ft/lbs of torque. A four-speed manual transmission feeds the power to the rear wheels, and while this classic wouldn’t be a jet over the ¼-mile, that little engine could propel the Triumph beyond 100mph. The seller states the car has been in storage for an extended period, but its engine is regularly coaxed to life to keep the vital fluids circulating. They mention an odometer reading of 37,559, believing this to be genuine. That suggests they don’t hold verifying evidence. It features a period-correct Ansa exhaust and appropriate redline tires. The Triumph runs and drives, although the seller’s suggestion that it needs brake work could mean it isn’t roadworthy.
This Triumph’s interior is a mixed bag, but potential buyers should consider it serviceable. The upholstered surfaces are in good order, with no evidence of wear or physical damage. The state of the carpet is unclear, but the timber dash fascia shows evidence of deterioration. It may be beyond salvation, although discussing this with an expert could be worthwhile. Otherwise, replacement fascias and glove compartment doors are readily available and will lighten the new owner’s wallet by approximately $450. The Blaupunkt radio/cassette player appears to be on its last legs, but the big news with this classic is that it features dealer-fitted air conditioning. We’ve only seen a handful of these cars with A/C, and it could be a significant selling point if the system works. It is complete, so keep your fingers crossed on that score.
Some people might not think this 1975 Triumph TR6 is an affordable project, but it is worth considering what it offers and its potential value. The listing and photos suggest the buyer won’t face significant rust repairs, and the work required to bring the exterior back to its former glory would be a piece of cake for a competent enthusiast. Its interior needs are minor, as are its mechanical shortcomings. If the buyer achieves a reasonable result, a value of around $20,000 is achievable. If the result is high-end, that figure climbs beyond $30,000, and values are rising steadily. That makes this classic worth serious consideration.
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Comments
Other than following Adam’s lead I’d repaint the top white. I’ve worked on a few of these and that small compartment gets pretty hot in the sun. Fun cars.
This one looks clean and relatively rust-free, but most of the survivors cannot make that claim. These are body-on-frame cars, but the factory frame isn’t box section tubing, but two u-channels welded together. Unfortunately, the channels were only spot-welded together, instead of seam welded, so water intrusion into the frame is a common issue that often results in hidden frame rot. Replacement aftermarket frames are available, but the tools and labor required to replace the frame are considerable.
Fortunately, these are the British equivalents of American muscle cars. A whole cottage industry has sprung up providing replacement parts for these cars, and it is literally possible to build an entirely brand-new TR-6 from replacement parts, including complete replacement bodies and frames! If you have the time, space, and most importantly, money, almost any TR-6 can be restored to showroom new condition, with engine combinations (Ford 302/5.0L, BOP/Rover 215 Aluminum V8) undreamed of by the original designers!
I’ve owned a TR4A for fourth years and have driven it once with the top up. Why would you want AC?
Does that top come off? That might be a reason. I it does, is there a soft top?
Forty (40) years, sorry
Florida!