Lot details
Registration No: HHP627L
Chassis No: KE208330
Mot Expiry: March 2011

Following the success of the Spitfire roadster, Triumph decided to produce a closed, GT (grand touring) version. In order to counter the weight penalty incurred by Michelotti's handsome fastback design, it fitted the straight-six 1998cc Vitesse engine (hence the bonnet bulge) and so begat the GT6. Introduced in 1966, the elegant two-seater's reputation suffered due to the potentially wayward nature of its swing axle rear suspension design. This problem was rectified with the introduction of the MkII, which had proper rear-wheel location by double-wishbone geometry. However, the damage was done and the GT6 never enjoyed the sales that it deserved. With 104bhp powering under a ton, performance was strong. Acceleration through the four speed gearbox reputedly yielded 0-60mph in 10 seconds and a 112mph top speed. Rack-and-pinion steering combined with independent coil and wishbone front suspension aided turn-in while braking was by discs at the front and drums at the rear. Launched in 1970, the MkIII shared the same styling as its Spitfire MkVI cousin, with notched tail, new windscreen and more modern wheels, and also its third-generation 'swing-spring' rear axle. Last of the line, it was phased out in 1973.

The vendor informs us that this particular example is "truly amazing and extremely original with low mileage. Its history goes back to 1980, when a surviving MOT certificate records 61,000 miles. After many years of dry storage it was entrusted to a Triumph specialist for refurbishment. Very little repair was required as the panels were very sound, but the GT6 was resprayed in the original colour and had its brightwork rechromed. The car received a new interior, involving roof lining, carpets, door trims and replacement wooden dashboard (though, the original radio has been retained). The seats were restored too and recovered with new high quality black leather. It has a stainless steel exhaust, and all-new brakes. It is now an exceptional GT6 that handles like a vehicle many years its junior. It runs very quietly with no disquieting rattles, just a lovely sound from the sports exhaust".