Triumph launched the new TR7 in 1975 as “the shape of things to come” due to its wedge-shaped body. Less known today is the TR8, a V8 version using a Buick-derived engine from Rover. It was in production for about half the time of the TR7 and estimates are that less than 2,800 copies of the TR8 ever saw the light of day, with convertibles carrying the lion’s share. This 1980 TR8 is a project car that’s been off the road since 1987 and will need mechanical and cosmetic work. Located in Homewood, Illinois, this roadster is available here on eBay where the asking price is $2,950.
Most of the TR8s built were sold in North America, so they would be a rare find today on their home turf in England. Because of its lighter weight compared to Triumph’s in-house V8, they used a 215 cubic inch V8 that you may remember a variant of in 1960s Buicks. Early models could be bought with either carburetors or fuel injection, with later ones going FI all the way. The TR8 had stronger brakes than the TR7 and some trim differences to separate it from its sibling. Estimates are that fewer than half of the TR8s built are still around, a surprising (to me) survival rate.
We’re told this Poseidon Green TR8 hasn’t been on the road for 37 years. This one spent a lot of time in Texas, though it currently calls Illinois home. It’s mostly rust-free but the body has more than its fair share of dings and scrapes, particularly with the driver’s side front fender. The interior may have been refreshed at some point, but the soft top is missing but does come with an aftermarket “Snugtop” hardtop to keep you out of the elements.
The seller goes into great detail about what you’ll find here – and not. For example, it doesn’t run, and the intake manifold and valve covers aren’t secured, having been taken off to verify engine condition. This Triumph has the twin carb set-up and the gas tank is no longer in place but has been saved for the buyer. If you’re looking for a restorable sports car that won’t be at every show you’ll attend, could this TR8 be it? Thanks, “TV”, for bringing this tip out into the open!
Good writeup Russ, but not all TR8’s were built in yank land.
Over here we got the real TR8’s, built in pommy land, with the rover 3.5L V8.
And how did that change things ? Was the engine better?
Already sold.
When these came out I didn’t like the styling at all, but over the years, I’ve grown to like them.
I would have a tendency to agree with you. I had no interest back then because I enjoyed the earlier Triumphs. Now it would be an interesting car to play with ( at the right price of course)!!
I had a feeling that this would be a fast seller. They always are when priced correctly.
I thought all TR7’s and TR8’s were projects…