1980 TRIUMPH TR8 CONVERTIBLE – MANUAL – 51,345 MILES SHOWING
The Triumph TR8 is a sports car built by the British Triumph Motor Company from 1978 until 1981. It is an eight-cylinder version of the “wedge-shaped” Triumph TR7, which was designed by Harris Mann and manufactured by British Leyland, through its
Jaguar/Rover/Triumph division.
The majority of TR8s were sold in the United States and Canada.
A more powerful V8-engined version of the TR7 was planned in the early stages of the TR7’s development, a prototype being produced in 1972.
However, British Leyland’s financial state, labour problems and lack of engines—as MG and Range Rover had first priority—delayed the
project. By 1978 some 145 RHD prototype cars were built with V8 engines (and usually automatic transmissions).
These “anonymous” TR8s (no identifying badges, and all coupes) were evaluated for British Leyland by various dealers and then sold off
as used cars.
Presenting here is a truly magnificent TR8 Convertible in Dark Blue Metallic with Black & Blue interior trim.
Imported into South Australia by Triumph Rover Spares of Lonsdale SA, we hold evidence of the Australian Government Approval # 95937/01 and dated the 21st of February 2008.
Rarest of all the TR’s, there were only approximately 2750 built.
Just recently serviced by Adelaide’s Triumph specialists, Classic and Sportscar Boutique of Norwood on the 12th of September 2024 at 51,024 miles.
Powered by a 3.5 Litre aluminium Rover V8 engine, it produced when new 99Kw and 201Nm of power and torque, delivered to the rear wheels via 5 speed manual gearbox. Performance figures suggest 0-100kph in 8.4 secs and a top speed near 220kph.
We hold two huge folders from the current owner showing all the money spent and work involved to bring it to it’s present state.
His words will help you understand this TR8.
” Purchased from Ian Wilson @ Triumph Rover Spares, Lonsdale SA in August 2009.
Inspected and passed by Regency in 2011, registered on Historic registration.
The car had been in storage for 15 years in America when Ian bought it and shipped it back to South Australia. Having been in storage
the car would need a detailed refurbishment before going back on the road.
From inspection the car needed body stripped to bare metal, the paintwork was crazed on most panels, there was evidence of an
armature repair to the front panel and due to the long period of storage, it would need all the mechanicals to be cleaned and inspected
for wear and deterioration.
The car was stripped down to the last nut and bolt, most parts were in serviceable condition, the body had two minor rust spots for
repair, with armature front panel repair needed, a new replacement front panel.
The conversion to RHD was very straight forward, all parts or substitute parts, (BMW power steering rack) were available and with the
aid of Roger William’s used book along with articles to assist and guide the process.
The electrical components have been replaced with new or refurbished. Power brakes, refurbished brake cylinders and booster, new
pipes and hoses fitted. Fuel system has been refurbished with new pump.
Body stripped to bare metal, repair rusted areas, replace front panel and then re-spayed in Glasurite 2 pack by Steve Klotz, colour
changed to a dark Blue. New radiator, heater core checked.
Air conditioning system cleaned, refurbished and a new rotary compressor fitted.
Finally, trim has been refurbished, new seat covers and new hood.
West Thebarton Dyno has tuned the motor.
British pucker, TR8 a Great Triumph ”
If you were to start a similar project today, it would cost more than double in terms of dollars and time. This car is a tribute to the team that has bought it to it’s current condition.
The current registration plates RTR-808 are available if the car is sold in South Australia.
Currently on South Australian Historic registration, this is not transferable, however it would be eligible for similar schemes in most jurisdictions, equating to minimal on road costs.
Available to inspect on our state of the art showroom floor in Adelaide.
We can arrange transport door to door Australia wide.
Finance – our broker offers VERY competitive rates and prompt service.
We welcome the opportunity to consider your trade in.
| Make: | Triumph |
| Model: | TR8 |
| Built: | 1980 |
| KM: | 51,345 miles |
| Engine Size: | 3500cc |
| Cylinders: | 8 |
| Transmission: | Manual |
| Price: | $44,900 |