The Triumph TR8 has all the hallmarks of a collector-grade automobile, but it is still available at a relatively modest price. Limited production, a V8 stuffed in a small car, and legitimate British pedigree make it the kind of car that would be significantly more expensive if it were a Sunbeam Tiger or a TVR Tuscan V8; however, since it’s a TR8, you get basically the same story as those cars for a pittance in comparison. The TR8 shown here on craigslist is a desirable carbureted model that has been in the back of the seller’s shop and now must be re-homed as he vacates the space.
It’s rare to find a TR8 in any condition; it’s rarer still to find one still sporting the dealer badges on the back that point to its origins in the U.S.A. What I love about little Easter eggs like these is tracing the car’s roots and finding out some aspect of its history still exists today. If you Google Baxter and Triumph in Omaha, you’ll be pleased to know that Baxter Cycle Omaha is still in existence and still selling Triumph motorcycles to this very day. Hopefully, the next owner is the nostalgic type who drives this TR8 back to middle America for a photo in front of the dealership.
The interior is dusty but all there. The iconic plaid seats can easily be restored courtesy of kits available online. The seller notes his car comes with factory air conditioning and power steering, and while it has been neglected in the shop, it appears this Triumph was never abused (at least not horrendously so) or modified. Another selling point of this particular TR8 is that it retains its original factory catalytic converters, which the seller is correct to point out are nearly impossible to find. I suspect this will make it far easier to return to the road if it remains in California.
However, part of the appeal of a V8 is to hear it fully uncorked, and the Rover-derived V8 is a terrific-sounding engine. I have this mill in my recently acquired 1994 Land Rover Discovery, and I’ve listened to numerous clips of these rigs with straight pipes and full throttle, and it sounds amazing. The 3.5L V8 produces 133 b.h.p. and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, and while that number isn’t mind-blowing, this is a car that makes up for the humble output with the thrill of top-down British motoring and a lumpy V8 under the hood. Such a cool car and totally deserving of being revived.
Neat find, but how much effort would it have taken for the seller to wash this critter for the pics?
I know, right? How bad do they’re want to sell it?
The seller is asking a smidge under $15K. Probably would have charged $25 more if he had cleaned it up….
Judging by the dirt and the ragged interior, I have to wonder how long the car sat. Pretty sure it was long enough that all consumables will need replacement, even if the basics can be awakened without major issues.
In short, I’d give this one a pass without a major price reduction. Anyone who pays the ask and then puts it in decent shape better have SCUBA gear. They’ll be underwater in a big hurry.
The ad says $7,895.
I’ve seen plenty of Tr8’s in running condition for less money , I believe the mkt
Is soft on the TR8’s
Buick derived engine? Pretty sure they do, but question myself…
Yep.
It’s the old B-O-P aluminum 3.5, a nice engine the Brits bought from GM. Also used in a lot of Land/Range Rovers and the Rover 3500.
They seem to be reliable units, and parts are available.
Too bad Repco SOHC heads are unobtainium. Jack Brabham did pretty well with those in Formula One.
They weren’t any good new and this one isn’t any good now.
The right person, and I know someone who has a good drivable TR8, can keep them running…. BUT, you need to know their flaws and keep on top of them. If you neglect them or abuse them, I reccomed having a good friend with a tow truck or a car trailer. This is not a car for anyone who isn’t willing to work on it frequently.
Compared to what in 1980?
Without sounding like an expert on these I’ve owned three of the TR-8’s and a half dozen of the TR-7’s and I can tell you that the worst thing that you can do with this/these cars are to let them sit! It’s the kiss of death!
I have one of these TR8 is exactly the same colour that I have owned for over 30 years I’m 82 years of age now and haven’t run the car probably in 10 or 11 years. Always been garage since I’ve owned it if anyone is interested in it in purchasing that is you may call me at 860–823–8039
Thank you, Steve W
Overpriced for the condition given that Hagerty #4 (fair) is $4,400 and #3 (good) is $11,200. Really nice ones go for around $20k or a bit less. Not so sure the carbureted version is all that desirable compared to the FI ones but at least the original carbs are still there — needed if it ever has to pass CA smog testing. Many sport Edelbrock 4 barrels at this point.
The CL ad I’m looking at says $7795… which seems like a reasonable ask to me. At this point in my life these are the projects I like… all there and original, but needing lots of nut-and-bolt work and clean-up. A wonderful way to pass away the winter and rainy days. Another one that if it was on the other side of the country, I’d seriously be considering it.
Could be good, could be a money/time pit. Hood will need repainting. Will need all new hoses, battery, and more. He’ll be lucky to get half that amount. And 133 hp is paltry for a 3.5-liter V8, but the BOP engine is not impossible to hop up. Walk in with $4,000 in cash, and he’ll quickly get back to reality.
Noticed something funny, on the front below the hood is the TR8 letters, as is correct for an ’80, but then it looks like it also has the round badge, correct for an ’81. Just curious.