This Triumph TR250 – a one-year-only car – is misidentified on eBay, where it is listed with a buy-it-now price of $5750 or best offer. The seller has it categorized as the less-glamorous TR6. The car is a derelict, no question about it – but fewer than 8500 TR250s were made, and at the very least, this example is worth a look for its parts, and it might actually be restorable. Tow it home from North Ridgeville, Ohio, if you are able to strike a deal.
Like so many solutions advanced by financially insecure auto manufacturers, the TR250 was a compromise designed to hang on to market share while a new model was rushed to market. Yet, this model has turned into one of the most collectible of the breed, outpacing the TR4, edging out the TR3, and trouncing the TR6 in value. This value stack makes sense: the TR250 utilizes the charming TR4 body – a worthy update over the TR3’s rakish looks – yet, it motors with Triumph’s then-new 2498 cc six-cylinder. Cars with this engine were delivered to the US fitted with two Zenith-Stromberg carbs, but over in England, it was fuel-injected. The injected six generated 150 hp – a lot of ponies for a 2300 lb British car. The carburetted version still managed 111 hp, but the very existence of a better-performing variant was enough to animate a quest for hotter cams, different intakes and carbs, and improved exhaust. Consequently, the aftermarket parts array is abundant. The gearbox is an all-synchro four-speed, with overdrive a frequently-selected option. This engine turns by hand, and all ancillaries are present.
Condition is one thing – and we expect a ratty interior given this car’s exterior condition – but replacing the TR250’s graceful original steering wheel with this fat-rimmed mixed media thing is another. Where’s my steering-wheel puller! Ok, yes, there’s plenty else to worry about in here, with the dash padding damaged, its wood veneer peeling itself back to its native state, and a fogged rear window. The entire interior needs a makeover.
Most of the panels have dents, some have rust; I think this bumper is dented too. But the listing includes a high quotient of underside photos, and things look pretty good down there! The seller does mention a few patches on the frame, so a personal inspection would be wise. A few of the views reveal the car’s original color, which was Valencia Blue. I’d love to see this TR250 put right, but it’s going to take a variety of skills and/or plenty of money to complete the job. What do you think of this Triumph – is it restorable, or better used for parts?
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