1979 Triumph TR7 Convertible
Original cost: $5,150.00
Previous owner: From Omaha in 1989; Bernie and Janice Taulborg Collection
Number made: 28,864 convertibles, total, 1979 – 1981
Engine, etc.: 105 bhp (U. S. versions: 92 hp); 4 cyl.; 85 in. wheelbase; 2,205 lbs.
The Triumph TR7 was produced from 1975 through 1981 by Triumph Motor Company, a division of British Leyland. It replaced the TR6 and was longer and wider. The design was termed a “wedge shape”, advertised as “The Shape of Things to Come”, and had been given the codename “Bullet” while being designed. The name was fitting due to its shape and characteristics. It was launched in the United States in January 1975.
The four-cylinder engine produced 105 horsepower but was slightly detuned in the United States version to comply with emission and government regulations. A five-speed gearbox was optional.
The independent suspension had coil springs, damper struts, anti-roll bar, and a lower single link at the front. The rear consisted of a four-link system with coil springs and anti-roll bars. The front had disc brakes and the rear had drums.
A yellow TR7 was driven by a character in the British secret agent television series The New Avengers, produced between 1976 and 1977.
Because of proposed U. S. legislation for roll-over protection at the time of its launch, the TR7 was not initially available as a convertible. In early 1979 Triumph introduced a convertible version, called the TR7 Drophead Coupe (DHC) which first went on sale in the U. S. (The hardtop version was called a “fixedhead coupe”, FHC.) The British market received it in early 1980.
Quality problems undermined the car’s image in the market place. This was mainly due to labor problems at the factory. Production was moved to a different factory and quality improved but it was too late to save the car’s reputation.
In a reorganization introduced by British Leyland’s manager, the TR7 was axed in 1981.
Sources: http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z2008/Triumph-TR7.aspx
http://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/triumph-tr7-tr8/3/
https://stevemckelvie.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/the-triumph-trs-triumph-tr7tr8/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triumph_TR7
http://uniquecarsandparts.com/lost_marques_triumph.htm (History)
