1982 Triumph TR7

Lot details
Registration No: RRR219X
Chassis No: TPADJ7AA403258
Mot Expiry: March 2011

Code-named 'Bullet' by Triumph, the TR7 was launched in the US during September 1974. The work of in-house stylist Harris Mann, its distinctive wedge-shaped profile was conceived at a time when proposed US legislation not only threatened to outlaw convertibles but also insisted that all cars should be able to survive a 5mph impact unscathed. Last of the TR line, it was the first to employ a monocoque chassis and featured all-round coil-sprung suspension, rack and pinion steering and disc / drum brakes, while performance from its 1998cc overhead-cam four-cylinder engine was more than a match for the MGB (contemporary road tests claiming 0-60mph in 9.1 seconds and 110mph). The newcomer offered a level of comfort and roadholding not previously seen in a Triumph sports car and was thus tolerably well received by the press. In 1979, the TR7 Convertible arrived and was almost universally hailed as better looking than its coupe sibling. It arrived too late to resuscitate the model's fortunes, however, and was discontinued two years later - though typical British Leyland stockpiling meant that sales continued into 1982.

Finished in wine red metallic with half tan-leather / half tartan-cloth upholstery and tan hood, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good" condition with regard to its engine, five-speed manual gearbox, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork, while he rates the electrical equipment as "all working". Sporting a tonneau cover and the distinctive registration number `RRR 219X', the Triumph has reportedly undergone a degree of recent refurbishment work. As well as a "a cosmetic repaint, fresh interior boot trim and new front floor mats", the two-seater is understood to have benefited from attention to its "water pump, clutch master cylinder, door window glass runners, brakes and rear shock absorbers". Indeed the seller informs us that total expenditure over the last few months has exceeded £2,000 before summing-up his charge as "a great summer fun car which will surely appreciate in time". Riding on alloy wheels, this nicely presented Triumph is offered for sale with a parts catalogue, various old MOTs, sundry parts / repair invoices and current MOT certificate valid until March 2011.