Triumph TR7 and TR8

The Triumph TR7 and TR8 were the last of the hugely successful TR sportscar models from Triumph. They were developed at a time when Triumph was owned by British Leyland and budgets were tight; as a result, they shared many major components with other BL models. Fears of US legislation that would outlaw open cars persuaded Triumph to introduce the TR7 as a fixed-head coupé, which prompted a backlash from die-hard open TR enthusiasts. Its modern wedge shape by Harris Mann, designer of the Princess, was no less controversial.

The production life of these cars was fraught with difficulty. Poor industrial relations led to a move of production from Speke to Canley, and the cancellation of a proposed new model. Manufacture of the V8-engined TR8 variant nevertheless did get underway before production was moved again, this time to Solihull. Quality-control and reliability issues damaged the reputation of the cars at the time but, despite all these difficulties, the TR7 and TR8 models, especially in post-1979 convertible form, are highly regarded today.

This book covers all variants of the TR7 and TR8, and also its success in contemporary as well as current classic car rallying. There is also guidance on purchase and ownership of a TR7 or TR8 today. Based on the author’s considerable knowledge and research, this is an essential guide to the last, and most controversial, Triumph TR sportscars.