Gearbox: Sloppy shifts identify a worn gearbox. The overdrive function, particularly on earlier cars, can experience faults.
Electrics: Although the electrics are thankfully simple, frayed wiring and damaged looms can still cause problems.
Rust: Red flags include bubbling paintwork, the vulnerable areas being under the carpets, behind the rear seats and around the front quarter panels. Look out for a rusted frame around the rear suspension’s trailing arms and where the differential attaches to the frame. Also check the engine compartment, because various fluids may have removed paint, allowing corrosion to set in. A professional respray is worth looking out for and will help you sleep better at night.
Also worth knowing
In the US and Canada, the TR6 received even less power, again due to emissions regulations, specifically 104bhp. Unsurprisingly, these cars also have a lower top speed, dropping from 118mph (stated for 150bhp cars) to 107mph. Changes under the bonnet include the use of twin ZenithStromberg carburettors instead of the fuel injection we got in the UK.
How much should I spend?
£6000-£9999: Restoration projects and runners in rough conditions. £10,000-£12,999 Left-hand-drive cars with mileages of around 70,000.
£13,000-£15,999: More export models but in better conditions and with lower mileages.
£16,000-£19,999: UK-market cars with mileages of around 70,000.
£20,000-£29,999: UK cars in desirable specifications. Mileages drop to 50,000.
£30,000 and above: Cars in exceptional condition and/or with an unusually low mileage.
One we found
Triumph TR6, 1974, 46,000 miles, £29,995: With its Pimento Red paint, this TR6 is a looker. It’s in great condition and hasn’t covered too many miles. In fact, the dealer says it has done fewer than 100 since 2006. It has recently been fully serviced, too.
