Tuesday 14th January 1969

The 150 bhp Triumph TR6, the ultimate incarnation of the chassis-based Triumph TR series, was launched. Built from 1969 to 1976, the Triumph TR6 was the best seller of the TR range built by Triumph at its time and the last in the illustrious tradition of bold British he-man sports cars. Of the 94,619 TR6s produced, 86,249 were exported; only 8,370 were sold in the UK. Its distinctive styling and brutal 2.5 litre straight six engine made the TR6 an instant hit and a fine successor to the long line of Triumph sports cars. The body was re-designed by Karmann of Germany, although the centre section and doors remained the same as on the Triumph TR4, TR4A and TR5 models. The old four cylinder engine that had been used in all models from the TR2 and TR3 through to the TR4A, was replaced by the six cylinder 2,500 cc engine with Lucas mechanical petrol injection. The Triumph TR5 and TR6 were the first UK production sports cars with Petrol Injection.The interior remained similar to the TR4A and TR5 with a walnut dash and good quality trim. The gearbox has synchromesh on all four gears and is fitted with overdrive that works on 3rd and 4th gears. Many saw the TR6 as the last of a breed of hairy-chested British sports cars, and as the only appropriate replacement for the Austin Healey 3000, which had ceased production in 1968.