Here’s your chance to buy an untouched 1980 Triumph TR8

A rare example of the Triumph TR8 sports car will be offered for auction later this month. The classic British roadster has never been registered. 

One of only two pre-production examples, the TR8 has covered just 73 miles since new.

Its sale, by Historics Auctioneers, will give British Leyland enthusiasts the chance to own a genuine piece of Triumph heritage.

Muscling up the TR7

British Leyland had intended to produce a more powerful V8-engined version of the TR7 from the outset. Aimed at the North American market, the TR8 would be dubbed the ‘English Corvette’. 

Power would come from the all-aluminium 3.5-litre Rover V8, producing 135hp for cars fitted with dual Zenith Stromberg carburettors. This made for a notable improvement in performance versus the TR7

Initial TR8 models came in coupe form when production started in 1978, with a convertible version following in 1979.

A decision was taken by British Leyland to offer the TR8 in right-hand drive, with a pair of pre-production models made. Intended to identify potential problems, the TR8 up for auction is one of the two ‘method build’ cars. 

Painted in Pendelican White, the TR8 is fitted with an automatic transmission. Tan velour upholstery, as used in North American cars, was chosen for the interior. 

Shortly after the TR8 entered full-production in right-hand drive, British Leyland executives opted to cancel the TR range. A total of just 18 cars would be made.

A true garage-find classic

Following the TR8’s completion, it was stored at the British Leyland factory in Canley until August 1980. 

A management-ordered clearout saw the TR8 sold to a north London collector. With just 73 miles shown on the odometer, the car was placed in a lock-up garage in Hampstead and left alone. 

Some 41 years later, it was discovered by classic car specialist Anthony Godin. On finding the TR8, Godin commented: “Something of this scale with its pre-production, low-mileage history really is unprecedented”.

The TR8 is listed for sale at the Historics Auctioneers event, set to be held at Ascot Racecourse. 

Following three days of pre-auction viewing, the TR8 and 169 other classic vehicles will go under the hammer on 25 September. 

Being sold without reserve means the unregistered TR8 is set for a new home.

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